My awesome mom passed away suddenly and totally unexpectedly last week.
My aunt (her sister) a day later had a massive stroke and we do not know if she will make it.
Then 1 day later, while I was in Las Vegas in the middle of Robert Park and my 2-day print workshop I received word that my favorite dog (back home in FL) passed away suddenly!
Of course, I am in a lot of grief, but as a faith person, I have a strange peace in the pain.
My mom was a phenomenal artist (she did everything from sewing, painting, carving, Ukranian eggs, pen and ink, music, quilting, woodwork and more) and she loved my photography, especially the NW seascapes. She was a massive encourager to do this professionally.
Here is one from the Pacific Northwest I processed today, in memory of her.
I fly to the Pacific Northwest for the funeral and also my normal spring business. Although I know I'll be sad, I also look forward to getting out to the unparalleled raw beauty of my home state.
Note, we all have heard it a million times. We need to tell our family, friends and loved ones how much they mean to us every opportunity we get. They will certainly, almost always, go when we do not expect it.
How truly blessed we are to have been brought into this world by truly beautiful people. My mom passed last July and not a day goes by that I am not awed by what a wonderful person she was. It seems as if your mom was the same. I pray your aunt recovers fully.
I am sorry for the lose of your dog too. I know how that is also.
Amazing how often multiple losses occur together, making a really powerful impact and test of strength/faith. You have my deepest sympathy as you work through these losses, but we all know you will overcome.
My sincere condolences. I do understand the mixed feelings of pain/peace when your Mom passes without warning or any chance to say goodbye. That happened to me 12 years ago.
The photo you chose to commemorate your Mom speaks volumes - not only of your Mother but also of your love and respect for her. Cherish those memories.
My condolences to you and your family Mark. She sounds like a wonderful mom and lady. And also for the loss of your little friend. I hope your Aunt recovers quickly and completely as well.
I think many of us enjoy our passion for wildlife and landscape photography for its therapeutic effects and as a means for us to escape and disconnect from our daily lives.
It is my hope you will find great peace and inspiration on your next beautiful sunrise session as you reflect upon the gifts your mom and little friend have shared with you.
I too wish to offer condolences for the loss of your mother. To have that compounded with your aunt having a stroke and the loss of a beloved pet must be very difficult. Blessings on you and your family as you come together during this tough period, and thanks for being such a greater member/poster on FM.
Any one of these incidents is enough grief but put them all together . . . OMG. Godspeed to you and your family. May you find solace in the memories of all the good times . . .
So sorry for your losses, Mark. I lost a son, my father, and our dog within a span of a little over a year. Life can pile up quickly at times. Be kind and gentle with yourself and your wife, and keep up with your beautiful and world-class photography.
Keith W.
Hello Mark your work has always inspired me, thanks for sharing.
My heart aches with you, I too just lost my great Mom at 89yrs of age. I haven't found any words yet to undo this event but as I look back at the good times together and the pictures together it does bring back a smile with tears of course.
Quality of life is the key word, my best to you with the outcome of your Aunt, sounds like a broken heart from the loss of her sister.
Hey buddy, your gonna need another pal sooner than you think to start a new life with to heal the loss of your pet, they can sure soothe us in times like this, so sorry to hear too of Biggie and what an adorable image.
Deep breaths Mark, be inspired in all the good memories..............take good care of yourself and those close to you now.................my sincere condolences
Karl
My mom turns 83 next month and your words ring very true. You don't know how important this time is until you don't have it anymore. Very sad to have all this loss hit in such a short amount of time. I wish you all the best as you deal with all these emotions. She has left this life knowing she raised a great and talented son. SK
