So all the events in this book were what he had in his mind, technically. The Sealing really was the ending of the series.
Don't mean to be pedantic, but the way you've written out your post makes it sound like you think sanderson wrote something other than what RJ had planned for the final book.
As for the epilogue, you have to keep in mind that RJ started this series out asking the question: How would it feel like to know you have to save the world, while knowing you are going mad?
Rand had been carrying this spectacular burden that no other human could possibly carry. And after serving his duty, he was free of all burdens and could enjoy the wonders of the worl. The ending of the epilogue was perfect IMO.