Sometimes we need a bit of time in the shadows in order to better see the light all around us.
I’ll admit to being a bit in the doldrums since my Sister left. I always am when family leaves after a visit. Not only that ease of connection that I have already waxed rhapsodically about but also the promise of unforgotten memory (certainly for me who struggles with memory problems) that is luxury and love and home all rolled into one. Fortunately, I have a wonderful family here in Remi and Ben to understand such sadness, such missing without mistaking it for anything else.
And so I had my blinders on for a few days. Those of thought that cover all else. A moment of me not me. And yet, you guessed it, me nonetheless.
Swinging on a cello song for too long until…
…with a blink, a subtle shift from an outline to taking it all in again, like a big breath.
And how fortunate I am to live in Provence where the light will chase after you relentlessly until you love it back, like you should!
But it is not the only source. Sometimes even little gestures work wonders. My honey buying me flowers today. Not to mention such lovely folks on the internet that know how to do a person good.
My friend Natalie gave me a little surprise yesterday, yet another blog award! Natalie always inspires me with the precision of her eye on Jewel yet to find. Isn’t that the best name for a blog? And yes, she is very talented for searching out the beauty in both surprising places (as in her recent series on glass) and illuminating aspects of the well-known (such as her exceptional series on Guadi’s Barcelona architecture). She is also incredibly generous in all of her well-thought out comments here, as many of you already know. Merci, Natalie!
And so on to the glamour of the day, Natalie awarded Lost in Arles the Sunshine Blog Award, one for bloggers “who positively and creatively inspire others in the blogosphere.” Now, that made me smile for I get so much that is positive from all of you!
Having excellent taste (ah-hem), Natalie chose so many of my fellow blog friends that I would have passed this award on to that I will need a moment to make my list. And so next week! We have good friends on the way to spend the afternoon with us followed by a yummy dinner and a movie party on the Rhone tomorrow. Looks like the sun is shining brightly again on this part of the world!
Wishing you all a wonderful, wonderful weekend…
Oh good! I would have passed it on to you but you were already on my previous list for you certain do bring tons of light, Miss Clare.
I think being far away from family is something to think about if you are close but living overseas is an amazing experience. Worth weighing out, especially if you or your family have the means to visit often…and also to consider the timing of your parents age, etc. I wasn't there when my Dad passed and that was hard on me. But really, keep thinking about it!
xo,
h
Oh lovely! I also just received this award from the beautiful Claudia of Paris Apartment 😉
It must be difficult living so far away from your family. I love to travel & my hubby & I have often thought about living abroad for some time, but I am so very close to my family… Not sure how I'd go…
~ Clare x
Love these photos with all the colors and textures. An artistic visual feast! xo Jenny
That first line is just what I needed to hear today! I've been in a bit of a funk myself the past couple of days and it's easy to spiral downward from there when in reality, there is so much light to be thankful for. xo
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Hello Heather
A powerful post. I love the light and shadows. The third image is spectacular. I know that feeling of missing a sister and close family member, following a visit. It is great that Ben and Remi understand. Congratulations on your award and well deserved.
Wishing you a week of joy and sunshine
Helenxx
The subjects in your photos are simple and yet you make them come alive and seem so lovely. And your words are enchanting.
PS – that first photo – it's like a painting. So lovely.