Clare Smart. Celebrant and Blogger: Life as a Brain Cancer Carer then Young Widow/Solo Parent
In my first few months as a widow I realised that parts of my path were going to feel painstakingly slow. Snail-like as I dragged myself onwards from task to task. Obstacle to obstacle. Retreating into my shell for rest and respite. Yet, with all due respect to snails, I don't think that snails have much fun... Continue Reading →
A short poem about removing my wedding rings.
Following loss, I am deeply aware of how every memory recalled together with someone is special.
If I'm not careful, I become a grinch at Christmas time. My emotions can get the better of me. I support myself and the kids using several strategies and traditions so that despite our loss we feel connected, loved, grateful and cheerful throughout the lead up to Christmas and on the day itself.
What to do on a day assigned to joy and celebration when you feel darkness creeping in and wrapping it’s tentacles around your heart? This was my dilemma yesterday. It was my son’s tenth birthday. I wanted to feel nothing but happiness but a lot has happened in the first decade of his life. It has been... Continue Reading →
I experienced time travel yesterday. It was intense and life affirming. It happened while I was attending a reunion morning tea at the pre-school my son last attended in 2012. The same year that my late husband died from brain cancer. My son was four and half years old and his sister was three. Now... Continue Reading →
My number one priority is to find joy and play every day for myself and to share fun activities with my children. The more the better! It is essential to balance my grief and stay connected to life.
What have I gleaned from my experience of the loss of my late husband that can ground me as I now grieve for the more recent loss of my father?
I carry a tight bundle of questions and concerns about raising my young children without their late father. All the worries have spun into knots held deep within. In the past few weeks I have felt some of the knots loosen and unravel. Yet again, I have been overcome with relief as different people have... Continue Reading →
Rainbows & Rollercoasters 