As I write this, I am hundreds of miles from home. Hundreds of miles from the destruction and devastation of my home town. Nearly two weeks ago, I packed my girls into the car and drove as far north as I could, arriving in the safety and sanctuary of the beautiful Golden Bay. Here, we have been able to pretend for a little while that life is normal. We have walked along the seashore, collecting seashells, paddling and splashing in the shallows. Basking in the beautiful, warm climate. Living a simple, beautiful life.
As our two weeks here draws towards an end, I now only see glimpses of the scared little girls I traveled here with. Holly, too terrified to go on the beach or open the windows because the sound of the waves and the wind was too terrifying for her, the sound too eerily similar to the sound heard in the seconds before an earthquake. Isla, clinging to me, like a little monkey, reluctant to leave my arms, even to those whom she knew and loved. As I watch them run down the beach, cooing like seagulls, laughing and squealing, I feel sad that I have to take them back to the city which has caused so much fear in their tiny hearts.
The dream is nearly over, back to reality soon.
I thought about you today as I walked past my lavender that I didn't manage to harvest all of. I realised you might not have the lavender you did now either. It must be so difficult for you, I hope you are doing okay.
ReplyDeleteChildren are so incredibly resilient and in time they will forget. But for now they are lost in the magic of sand and surf which will help in restoring their energy and strength. It is so great that you've been able to snatch some time to feel normal and safe again. Always thinking of you guys. Trace
ReplyDeletemy thoughts and prayers are with you all
ReplyDeletehope theyll be ok
Lou
ReplyDeleteYou and the girls are in my thoughts - how much longer are you there for?
My Mother is just over the hill if you'd like a bed for a night or two in Motueka xxx
Love
C
Oh lou, I can olnly imagine what you've all been through, so much for little ones to bare & so much for you too. I wish you all well, and I am so glad you have managed some time away to enjoy life & each other, take care xx
ReplyDeleteI feel for you and your family, it must be so incredibly hard. Thinking of you, take care xo
ReplyDeleteThinking of you, and wishing you a calm journey home to start over again.
ReplyDeleteOh Lou, it will be ok - where there is a will, there is a way. We're back and its hard at times, but its home.
ReplyDeleteDear Lou, My heart goes out to you and your beautiful family. I do hope everything settles down soon and you can find peace once again. All the very best,
ReplyDeleteSarah x