BRCA & the beach {Personal Reflections}

May 01, 2013


How are you?
So sorry I cannot read all your lovely
posts as I used to, but I tire easily now
as I journey with my BRCA2 genetic
mutation diagnosis related schtuff.

Writing my own posts is as effortless as ever, but
visiting and commenting requires energy
and time of which I'm short.


Ilse Jacobsen boots Splendid Avenue

It has been a month since my first surgery
in conjunction with the BRCA2 stuff
(my sis had her LTH a week ago and is doing well),
and the instant m.pause creates quite a lot
of unwelcome and unsavory symptoms.
read: insomnia, mood swings, severe hotflashes, bitchiness

However, this journey is rich with lessons
in suffering, healing, and transformation.

I'm a mess, but a warrior.

I'm muddling through but a champion.

I'm vulnerable, open, and thirsty, yet full.

I'm finding out what I'm made of.

These photos were shot recently at Lake Michigan
by Melissa James Studio.

She has a magical way of putting one at ease
and is such an amazing stylist and director.


Capturing the contemplative season I find myself in,
there is perhaps a loneliness conveyed
here, which is but a sliver of the story.

Truly I am blessed with many friends
and family who do everything in their
power to cheer and join me,
always pointing me toward hope.

druzy necklace, Jen Cornell Studio

How can I not gaze skyward with gratitude!?!

Do not ever be afraid to hope, friends!

 Peace to you right where you are.











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18 comments

  1. SplenderosaMay 1, 2013 at 11:33 PM

    You look wonderful, beautiful and full of life. And, keep looking up as you are doing in the contemplative photos. Very powerful stuff you are writing. I'm sending love and all my best wishes from Houston.....Marsha

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  2. The enchanted homeMay 2, 2013 at 5:46 AM

    You should be the posterchild aka supermodel mama for the "messy warrior" because trust me, you look like anything but a super chic glamorous can do anything kind of gal. Love your musings and your wonderful expressive way of allowing us to feel like we are right there with you (and in spirit we are). These pictures are FABULOUS!
    Sending you a hug and best wishes.
    xoxo

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  3. Teresa Hatfield ~ Splendid SassMay 2, 2013 at 6:55 AM

    Michele-
    I am praying for you sweet friend. I know that it is a tough time. I have had a hysterectomy.
    Great images!
    Happy Thursday.
    Teresa
    xoxo

    ReplyDelete
  4. UnknownMay 2, 2013 at 8:50 AM

    Lovely images, lovely woman, strong like warrior in spirit and strength.
    You continue to inspire Michele.
    xx, Heather

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  5. Julie Taylor and Danni GreenwaltMay 2, 2013 at 9:51 AM

    You are in my prayers....sending you a big hug!

    ReplyDelete
  6. Di@Cottage-WishesMay 2, 2013 at 1:37 PM

    You look wonderful!!! Take care of yourself, I hope your sister is doing good too, Di

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  7. AnonymousMay 2, 2013 at 3:47 PM

    Beautiful pics - and I´ll never believe you have the tiniest bitchiness in you sweet lady! :-)

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  8. LeslieMay 2, 2013 at 4:27 PM

    Beautiful Michele. You ARE a warrior .. Sending light your way.

    xxleslie

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  9. Leslie HarrisMay 2, 2013 at 7:02 PM

    Take your time. Don't worry about blog visits and leaving comments, just take care of yourself. Hot flashes and hormonal moodiness is no fun (I've recently joined this club) and my positive prayers are coming your way. For you and your Sis. I'm so glad to know she is also doing well.
    xoxo
    Leslie (Gwen Moss)

    ReplyDelete
  10. La ContessaMay 2, 2013 at 7:25 PM

    You look great..............keep going!

    ReplyDelete
  11. Heaven's WalkMay 2, 2013 at 8:41 PM

    You are a beautiful warrior, a beautiful soul, and a divine inspiration to us all, my sweet friend. Stay strong. Find peace. And know that you are being lifted up daily by the prayer warriors who have your back...and are here for you. ♥

    xoxo laurie

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  12. decor de provenceMay 2, 2013 at 11:20 PM

    You have such a beautiful spirit - not to mention also gorgeous on the outside! I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers; moments like these are what make us who we are... creating depth, compassion and beauty. Stay strong and know you're never alone!

    much love to you Michelle!
    Des

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  13. Greet LefèvreMay 3, 2013 at 2:18 AM

    Michelle,
    You look so beautiful and well! I am so pleased to see these pictures of you!!
    Love the boots! I also have a pair of them,from Monica's Splendid Willow shop!
    Much love to you my friend!
    xx
    Greet

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  14. Jeane M.May 3, 2013 at 4:21 AM

    Love the outfit simply fabulous as usual. Got my eye on your next posts.

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  15. Woodside ParkMay 4, 2013 at 1:37 PM

    Great, great photos, Michele! You look beautiful, as always. Take care, and enjoy the weekend ~ Loi

    ReplyDelete
  16. AnonymousMay 8, 2013 at 5:02 AM

    You look incredible, Michele! Your strength and spirit are inspiring and so evident in your photos and prose. Lots of love to you, beautiful lady!
    Meera xx

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  17. erin's art and gardensMay 9, 2013 at 4:45 PM

    you are a beautiful woman inside and out.
    thinking of you,
    erin
    xxoo

    ReplyDelete
  18. Lynda @ Happenstance HomeMay 11, 2013 at 7:07 AM

    I've been thinking about you - wanted to check in and see how you are doing. Your photos are beautiful. God bless you, and your sisters.

    ReplyDelete

Your comments add to the beauty...thanks in advance for your kindness.

blogher

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