March - a Month of Adventure and of Loss

March 10 we flew to Arizona.

Just home from our cruise and stay in Florida, taking another trip was almost the furthest thing from our minds, but when Lar's brother called to say he would like to share an opportunity to stay at a friend's house in Terravita, we pretty much couldn't refuse.

During our stay - which was full of the most amazing sight seeing, Lar and his brother lost their mother.

It wasn't unexpected, really - she would have been 94 this year, and she'd been failing.  But it is never easy to lose a parent, and being away while she was expiring was difficult on both her sons.

But there was such an amazing sense of rightness about it.

Arizona was perhaps her second most favorite place in all the world - only slightly below California - La Jolla to be exact.  And having her sons together, enjoying each others company and bonding, in places like the Grand Canyon and Sedona - well, what mother wouldn't love that? 

Once home, I set out to create a dvd celebrating Nancy's life - and once done, I was faced with making up family photo collections on display boards as well.  Those tasks got me to thinking about this lady who had been my mother-in-law for almost 50 years.

One of 6 girls and one boy born to the Wallace/Donnelly family, she was the epitome of a "self-made woman".  When the crash ended her formal schooling, Nancy nursed the desire to complete school, and eventually she did so, taking night classes.

She also took courses in millinery, sewing and office skills.  She was proficient in short hand and ultimately became the Administrative Assistant to the highest ranking officer in a major corporation in our town.

But before that she was a loving mother and wife.  She made clothing for herself and her children and created a warm and nurturing home.  She was an accomplished cook.

At one point in her life, Nancy dealt with her own demons, she battled them courageously, and she won a battle which left those of us who knew her impressed and amazed.  No doubt about it, this was not a woman to be taken lightly!

Somewhere around middle aged, she uncovered a hidden talent - Nancy could paint!  She sold at least one painting, and left some to be cherished by her family.

You know, I've known people who spent many years of their lives just sort of biding their time - waiting, as it were, for the end.  

Nancy McCay - no one can say you did that.  You lived fully and I hope you were as satisfied with your accomplishments as you should have been.

Rest in peace.