As the end of the year approaches, so does December 28th, the one year anniversary of my dad’s passing. Although the pain of loss feels particularly heavy, each new day reminds me that this is a time for gratitude, reflection and celebration.
My dad always wished to be remembered not by how he died, but by how he lived — and last December, my dad earned his wish when we all gathered at the ocean, cheered as a golden San Diego sun dipped below the horizon, and said goodbye to our beloved Loren Nancarrow.
Since that extraordinary night at the beach, we all have lost many more local heroes including Jerry Coleman, Tony Gwynn, and Larry Himmel…we’ve lost mothers, fathers, husbands, wives, siblings, children, and friends, further reminding us that each day is gift. So as our family celebrates my dad’s life, we also want to honor and celebrate the lives of your loved ones who have passed, as we believe that love is truly what it is all about. Let’s LOVE and celebrate together.
We invite you to join us in celebrating the lives of our loved ones…
WHAT: Community Paddle-Out & Celebration of Life
WHEN: Sunday, December 28, 2014 @ 4:00pm
WHERE: Seaside Reef (South Cardiff State Beach)
WHO: All of San Diego (you don’t have to paddle out to celebrate!)
BRING: Photos of loved ones, candles, a flower or two to share, and/or musical instruments to play and share. (Per State Parks: Parking is $10.00 per vehicle).
Hannah Jane Nancarrow is a San Diego State University alumni, with a B.A. in journalism and new media. After graduating in 2011, Hannah worked in local T.V. news before her dad was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Hannah managed and contributed to her dad’s incredibly popular blog (thenancarrowproject.com) and social media platforms before he passed away, after 11 months of bravely battling and blogging. The diagnosis was a catalyst for her own writing and for following each whim and dream. Today, Hannah writes her own blog and has been a keynote speaker at San Diego Women's Week, Relay for Life, and a top fundraiser for cancer-related causes throughout San Diego. Hannah also has a passion for health and fitness, since losing 75 pounds in 2011. She earned her Spinning® and group fitness instructor certifications, and teaches weekly cycle classes in Encinitas, California. Hannah also earned her real estate license and works in the family business, Nancarrow Realty Group, in North County San Diego.
The Nancarrow Project 
Is there going to be anything this year at seaside to honor Loren?
❤
So beautifully said it brought me to tears. Your dad was one of San Diego’s finest and I feel like I grew up with him around even though I never met him. Thank you for continuing his spirit and love for our community. It’s truly a rare gift nowadays. I hope to be there to celebrate the lives off the loved ones we’ve all lost and treasure the ones we have.
Beautifully said. My thoughts and well wishes to you~
Keep on keepin’ on Hammer Jane – Don’t Stop Believin’!!! Love and prayers to you and your family! ❤
We send our best wishes to you, your mom, brother and sister. We will be holding special thoughts for Loren and all of you throughout December. Susan & Bob McAndrews
On Dec. 28, 2010 my husband John died of an infection related to a brain tumor. We lived in Cardiff 1974-2000 and I will be there to celebrate him, your dad and all others who have died from brain cancer much too young. May they nrest in peace and may we find a cure.
A year already. Yes, life turns on a dime and we should all make note of that when talking and being with loved ones. Cherish each moment, make it count. Both Lorenzos’ legacy to us,( I used to call Larry Lorenzo too at work).
Dear Hanna, I used to bump into your father Loren on occasion over at Von’s in Encinitas he would always have his trusty German Shepards in the back of his pickup truck. I really enjoyed Loren, his feelings for San Diego and everyone who lives here. He truly loved this area and it showed through his broadcasts. Loren was a lot more than a weatherman he was really into helping us create a more beneficial place to live by telling how to create compose, plantings, and many other things. I truly miss him and I am glad that you are continuing his post. God bless you and your family.
Dear Hannah: It’s a marvelous idea to have another anniversary celebration and paddle-out to celebrate your dad and also Larry Himmel his close buddy and friend. I still keep a photo of the sunset from last year’s service on my cell phone as the wall paper; it was such a perfect evening and it reminds me to be grateful and thankful for all God gives us each and every day. This year has been a tough one for you and your family, and yet you continue to share and inspire all us! Thank you, Hannah, for your blog and also for all that you are doing in the community. You ate a true blessing! Hugs to you and your family, Bobbie
Can’t paddle but will remember my friend Barbara.
Reblogged this on Hannah Jane Nancarrow.