This week has been one of emotional upheaval. I started the week feeling refreshed and happy after a busy and fun-filled weekend. Then I received some upsetting news about a loved one who had been in hospital for the past three weeks. And then I embarked upon the madness that is National Novel Writing Month (#NaNoWriMo). Top that off with the usual domestic chaos that is my life, and you begin to see the bigger picture. It is one of any average mother, wife and writer. I have been taking time to honour the change of season as the Wheel of the Year turns and Autumn shows herself in all her beautiful, golden glory. It is essential to ground yourself during times of emotional stress, to remember that we do need to rest sometimes, and it is alright to do so.

Well, my week has culminated in the most dramatic of all emotions: grief. I am very sad to report that my wonderful Nanna died peacefully in hospital, with her children around her. I am very lucky to have had her for all of my thirty-three years in this world. And I am still processing the feelings and emotions that come from her loss. I alternate from smiling and laughing, to crying at the most bizarre memories. For example, earlier today I was preparing a batch of pizza dough, and as I rinsed flour and water from my fingers, I remembered those childhood days when I would do baking with my Nan in her bungalow. And then I found the photo albums… I will not go on. We all experience loss and grief at some point in our lives. I have been blessed to have avoided it until now. My Nan had a good, wholesome, fulfilling life and she was happy. That is the best memory of all. I love you, Dorothy Hargreaves, my Nanna.

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