The month of November was not good to my family in so many ways. Besides the broken sewer line displacing my family the entire month, we also lost my stepfather to an unforeseen illness.
It has been an exercise in patience and a lesson in grief, love, and gratitude.
I wish I could say I was the picture of serenity during this trying time, that I didn't lose it, not once, but unfortunately, the stress did get the better of me a few times.
But unlike other stressful times of my recent past, my break downs were minimal in occurence, duration and intensity. Several blessings helped me hold it together.
My family. The death of my dad brought us together, not without drama (after all, we are Lyons women), but together just the same. Sharing stories of our childhood was amusing and comforting and getting to watch my young nieces and nephews play and listen to them laugh was a reminder that life is short and precious.
I spent time looking out at various landscapes, finding beauty not only in the obvious places, but when I changed my perspective in unusual places as well.
I am feeling reconnected with my creativity again.
Last but not least, I am not the same woman I was a year ago. I am stronger and wiser. I have a better support system and have surrounded myself with more loving and open people.
So in the midst of the crazy that will forever be called November 2012, I was actually happier than I would have ever imagined possible.
Namaste,
Shannan
Photo credit: Dan Zampa & Shannan Sinclair
Your pictures are lovely, and so are you for your honesty. Love and light to you.
Posted by: Eleni Papanou | December 03, 2012 at 12:14 AM
Sorry for your loss Shannan. That being said, I really love your photos and what a sweet post. Hope December brings you much joy :-)
Posted by: Agnes | December 03, 2012 at 05:19 AM