Sunday, 15 January 2012

Day 365

I made this origami butterfly for today's final shot.


It's only six weeks until I fly away myself, back home to the UK, after spending seven years in New Zealand. Although I know it's the right decision, it's going to be heart-wrenching to leave behind the sweet little feline soul who's been my constant companion for the last six years, the home that Iain and I spent over two years building, and all the wonderful friends I've made since I've lived here.

This project has meant so much more to me than simply a way to make myself take more photos. I started the project in December 2010, around the same time that Iain began the affair with the colleague he would eventually leave me for. Of course, I didn't know this at the time, but looking back now, I realise that one of the main reasons I started the project was because I was feeling lonely. I was stuck out in the middle of nowhere on my own, without a car, and starved of attention from a husband who was 'working' longer and longer hours. Keeping a daily blog was a way of connecting with other people. And I'm so glad I did, because I got to connect (or re-connect) with all of you!

If you've ever visited this blog before, I'd like to say 'thank you'. If you've ever commented on one of my posts, then thanks a million. If you're a regular commenter, well, what can I say? I honestly couldn't have made it through the last thirteen months without you. I mean it. You're friggin' awesome! :-)

Love from Helen x

25 comments:

  1. I have a little tear in my eye, Helen :'-(

    This is possibly the most beautiful and apt photo from the whole year. As you well know, I have found this blog fascinating, moving and inspiring ... I will genuinely miss it. Thank you for IT and for encouraging me in my efforts.

    You are a very special lady, and a very special friend ... I wish you everything wonderful in your future life.

    Love, Val xxx

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    1. And now it's *your* turn to make *me* tear up! Thank you so much, Val. x

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  2. Joe from SCV, CA USA15 January 2012 at 12:56 pm

    Well this is the third 365 I have followed that has come to a conclusion. I'm on the lonely side too and for me it was a way to interact with interesting people. I guess that is the heart and soul of social media. I'm so happy you'll restart one from the UK as I have learned a lot about other countries as a benefit to following fascinating people.

    You have faced a major life setback and have met it head on and I can tell you will continue to grow and evolve as your lie becomes more stable in the UK.

    You have weather on your side as you get to go from summer to spring to summer. Good timing. Best wishes on the move, your trip in the States and you home coming in England

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    1. Thanks for your good wishes, Joe. And thank you for following and commenting over the past few months.

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  3. It's sad I just found this blog yesterday. At least I have 363 more photos to go back and look at. :)

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    1. Thanks for commenting, Deno. Pleased to 'meet' you! Enjoy your trawl through the archives. :-) Maybe we can meet up again when I start my new photo blog. Watch this space.

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  4. Helen, you are a very strong, sweet, and wonderful person.
    I will miss you here.
    I wish you the very best with your move, for you so deserve the very best.
    Please be in touch once you get settled in.
    Sending you love.
    xo.

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    1. Thanks for your kind and generous words, Lisa. I'm so glad I found your blog; it's been a real inspiration to me during this project. I will definitely stay in touch!

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  5. i couldn't say anything more than what everyone else has, so i echo all of that plus respect to you, H for getting through a very tough year and emerging a UK bound butterfly..i think you'll make an excellent yoga teacher too xxx

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  6. Helen, its so simply beautiful. Perfect. Wishing you lots of happiness and an exciting fresh start back home. Tell you what - I would do exactly the same if I was in your shoes. You'll be fine cos you're lovely.
    Huge hugs xxx

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    1. Thank you, Laura! Your 365 project and your gorgeous macro shots helped inspired me to start this project, so thanks for that, too! Hugs right back at you! xox

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  7. Ditto everything that's been said above, Helen. When I welcome the butterflies to my garden this summer I shall think of you and smile. Good luck! x

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  8. Hi Helen,

    I came to your blog late.

    I have found it a joy for a host of reasons.

    all the best

    Julie

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    1. Thanks, Julie. I'm glad you've enjoyed this blog.

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  9. I wish all the best, Helen!
    I enjoyed so much your photos, your blog and your stories, although I have discovered you only in recent months.
    You have a rare sensitivity that you share with your images and your words!
    I will follow you on your new blog, and your new life in UK!
    Ciao dall'Italia!
    Cristina

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    1. Grazie per le gentili parole, Cristina. :-) Ciao dalla Nuova Zelanda!

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  10. Helen, thank you for sharing your beautiful shot with us and a peek into your life, your emotions, your heart. I look forward to following you again on your new blog and, even though I know it will take a little while before you really arrive, a warm welcome back to our continent :-)

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  11. here i was, just wanting to drop by to say: congratulations for completing the 365 days of photos - and arrived at this note about moving life. all the best for the move! warm vibes~~~

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  12. You've had quite a challenging time. Your time in New Zealand seems to have been well spent -lovely photos and wonderful memories. I wish you the best as you travel back to the UK. Mickie :)

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  13. You are wonderful creator of feelings. Every word were touching deeper and deeper.

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