BIRD, Andrea Kathleen

Andrea died peacefully at home, surrounded by family and loved ones. She wrote this obituary: Living with cancer for the past decade or so, I’ve learned about patience and presence. Being with what shows up, especially what we don’t want, is a fierce teacher. This ‘living with dying’ time has also been a teacher for my beloveds: Daniel (Beirne) who shows me daily what love is, our dear sons, Liam (Kylie) and Conor - show up and respond from their hearts, making my heart sing. Our grandchildren, Sloane and Sawyer, bless us with their bright, golden spirits. Being “Birdie” with “Grandad” was incredible! I loved every moment. Dan’s big, smiling family embraced me warmly from day one. My sister Stephanie (Glenn) walked beside me with love. My parents, the late Glenn and Sue Bird taught me to embrace life with all its challenges. It is hard to leave this world, yet I have been blessed with a creative and love-filled life. Making and teaching art (the hive at the Alton Mill) brought deep joy. Family and dear friends, I love you and always will. The love we share does not die with me. Thank you for walking alongside me (and us) with such courage and grace. I have been truly blessed in this life. Last words from Mary Oliver, my fave poet….

“Instructions for living a life: Pay attention. Be astonished. Tell about it.” 

Celebration of life in Guelph at a later date. (Wear bright colours.)