I have been feeling especially pensive lately (and yes, Remi might ask, “When aren’t you?”). Not sad, just with so many thoughts swirling around without my being able grasp any of them like a bear chasing after butterflies. A swirl of up in the clouds down in my cup. Something in me is preparing for the winter as the evening light slides down the wall faster and faster with each passing day. I am horribly sentimental, listening to music, the same songs over and over, creating memories and coming back to others that fill me with a bittersweet longing that is as faded as the leaves. It was only in writing to a friend earlier that I remembered that I am usually like this at this time of year.
And I have the proof. For it was two years ago today that I started this little adventure. Much has happened but in many ways, much remains the same.
I am not going to go into that for now, as it just so happens that I will be writing about it more next week for my monthly contribution to the By Invitation Only series–that is if I can find the words! But I know, I know how grateful I am for all of the 155, 267 page visits Lost in Arles has had not to mention the really beautiful emails and encouragement I have received as late.
It makes me look forward greatly to seeing what is next…side by side…
…time to turn the lock.
Happiest 2nd Blog Anniversary!
You've been an inspiration…as well as a free trip to France with each word
and beautiful photograph.
Heather, that last image is so striking! I really like it. It's the sort of thing I might frame and hang in a room where I like to sit and think.
May the next two years bring you so much inner feasting that this blog will continue to evolve just as you do, and have. It takes a certain kind of courage to chronicle the subtle shifts within. Beautifully done.
How fast two years can fly by. Heather, I think you and I are blog twins because it was about two years that started sending thoughts out into the Universe, too. Your blog brightens my day, even when you yourself might not be feeling so bright. Your journey is a beautiful one, and I feel like I learn so much looking at the world through your eyes. The times that come just after the harvest, when we are just beginning to germinate the very beginnings of what's next… they may not feel like the best or most productive times in our lives, but they have the most brilliant pay-offs, I truly believe. Thanks for all the beauty. XO
Happy anniversary! Two years seems like forever and then again more like, "poof!" Where did the time go? Wishing you many more years of wonderful posts and the inspiration you give to those who read them.
I lost the second "t" in Hattatt in my haste to get my words down…ooops.
Whatever I want to say, the Hattat's always express it far more poignantly than I can! Yes, we have all been found in Arles, on such a personal journey into your beautiful world, ups and downs, highs and lows. I love the honesty of your observations – not trying to concoct a "perfect life" which makes everybody else feel like a failure at their own – but writing of the real beauty of your life. And of that, there truly is much, for somebody with a heart so filled with love as yours. xx
I'm so glad I found you and have been able to join you on this journey. Two years! I'm looking forward to the next two.
xxo J
Heather, I've been absent on our travels from Arles and this post was a perfect way to re-enter your world. This trip has made me nostalgic and pensive as well; perhaps it is the history, the beauty, or being a part of summer turning to autumn that has caught me up in an introspective mode as well. You've said it so well in this post. I am happy to be back in wi-fi land because it takes me to your Arles. . .happy to be back among your readers.
xoxo
j.
Thank you my dear friends, you have been sorely missed. This brought tears to my eyes! But happy ones…you both seem to have a way of doing that to me…
Gros, gros bisous,
H.
Hello Heather:
As days grow shorter and shadows lengthen it is, perhaps, inevitable that our thoughts turn to hibernation and sheltering from the winter chill and recalling past experiences both bad and good. And, as you hunker down in the cosiness of your lovely home in the companionship of those who love you, dearest Heather, please take a moment to think of the warmth and joy that you have brought to your readers over these past years.
We have been privileged to be found rather than lost in Arles and have been enchanted, entertained, inspired and enlightened by your beautifully crafted, carefully considered and stunningly photographed posts.Our lives have been lit up and our sense of adventure kindled by your words.
Turn the lock…….oh, yes please!!!!