by Linda Stuart | Jan 16, 2019 | Funerals, Death, and Dying, Life's Journey
You’ve been asked to give a eulogy. It’s an honour, it’s a privilege and, yes, it’s really hard. But few things in life that are worthwhile come easy, so grab a box of tissues, pour yourself a glass of something (no judgment) and carve out a few hours—because time is...
by Linda Stuart | Nov 19, 2018 | Celebrating Families, Life's Journey
Our lives are made up of stories. I would like to share with you one of my mother’s. Her name is Anne, but at the Dotsa Bitove Wellness Academy, they call her Champagne Annie. You see, my mother loves to dance and she loves the sound of music that makes her want...
by Linda Stuart | Jan 7, 2018 | Life's Journey
The New Year is often a time for setting goals and making resolutions. While I agree this practice can be useful, it can also be disheartening, leading to feelings of failure and disappointment. The year 2017 was a bit like that for me. Beginning...
by Linda Stuart | Oct 11, 2017 | Funerals, Death, and Dying, Life's Journey, Marking Milestones
People are often surprised when they learn of my love-hate relationship with the term “Celebration of Life.” “But you’re a Celebrant!” they say. “Doesn’t that mean you like to celebrate?” Well, yes…and no. It depends....
by Linda Stuart | Jul 1, 2017 | Life's Journey
“How will I teach him to tie his shoelaces?” During those initial chaotic moments in the delivery room, that was my first coherent thought. His due date was July 1—Canada Day—but, fittingly, he arrived instead on the Fourth of July. Independence Day. “He will be...
by Linda Stuart | Feb 1, 2017 | Funerals, Death, and Dying, Life's Journey
I have heard that writing a letter to someone who has died is helpful to the grief process and, while my mother is still very much alive, with every passing day, I mourn her loss. Over and over again, I am reminded, “It’s not her, it’s the disease.” And so, Dementia,...
