Snake Bite Won Or Was It Age
Questioning life is like questioning death itself, no real answers. What I did experience after knowing my husband over fifty years together was he enjoyed running, in later years walked daily, photography and holidays always topped the list. When not away many walks on beaches and in parks, with children and pets over the years.
After snake bite at the end of October nothing ever returned to any semblance of normal, at the end death certificate was noted as natural causes.
Cremation indicated without a church service had been his wishes, living in South Africa the cremation fortunately done a day before loadshedding reared it's ugly head again, albeit shorter being only a few days. Flooding over two weeks, well we had three which meant we could not continue making plans as communities needed assistance.
March 9th we booked Celebration of Life at MOTH gardens in Warner Beach where we have lived for over forty years. We selected a place under a tree in broiling 34C (93.2F) to gather, share memories of the years where more often than not you learn a lot about a partner who was quiet and unassuming through work associates or friends made along his path in life. Three score plus one, at 71 not old, who is to question when the bell tolls?
The geese kept us company, actually not too happy as this was "their" tree, they surrendered and allowed us a brief time to share it with them.
Then we had the mongoose family arrive, during our time they too decided to join in, geese kept them at bay not allowing them too close up under the tree where we had congregated.
After everyone was settled with a plate of eats the geese returned and settled under the tree with us, a very special remembrance one my husband would have appreciated. Being different cultures it worked out brilliant as all had an opportunity to share from their perspective.
Once those who joined had slowly left my brother and I took a quiet walk around the gardens thinking of those who have gone before us, closing this chapter a glance over to the tree where we spent some time honouring a provider, father and loyal friend to many.
I may not be back on Hive for awhile, sorting out many real life things around the home at the moment, be assured as soon as I am able it will be on a more permanent basis as it once was.
Many thanks to the many who have sent condolences, wishes for the future and life to continue.
All photography my own using Canon Powershot SX730 HS. Have a wonderful day wherever you live in our wonderful world.
Thought for Today: "Life is the beginning of death." - African Proverb
Oh bless you Joan! I am so sorry for your loss, words that barely ever seem to convey the genuine feeling we would hope to be wrapped up in them.
The great irony, some may say cruel twist of knowing real, lasting, true love is the knowledge that one day... Well you know how that ends, don't we all.
It can scarcely be imagined when we are going through such a profound loss and all that 'stuff' that gets wrapped up in our grief that it is indeed worth it, but as we both know it bloody well is and in time happier memories, old funny stories and moments that bring a happy smile or tear take centre stage in how we remember that love and in who we are for that special persons imprint on our life and our spirit.
I am far from dumb enough to say I know what you are going through as every grief is as individual as a snowflake, I can say however that love, hugs, thoughts and all the the very best, heartfelt wishes are with you. ❤
It is so true as you mention that at times like these, our thoughts turn to all those who have already left spring to mind, I am a firm believer that this is a good and cathartic thing. It reminds us that profound loss becomes something we learn to carry with us in a way that becomes manageable, but, yes at times, more than a little raw.
I do hope, and am certain they will, that as time rolls on in the way that it does, the many wonderful memories you shared bring great comfort, laughter and smiles alongside the unbidden tears that come whenever the heck they want.
When we were young, 71 would have seemed positively ancient, wouldn't it, as we grow and learn the way of the world, we realise it is not nearly long enough to understand the world that we were born in to but only hope we can fill it so chock full of memories, experiences and imprints on the lives of those we love and even wider so that it means something when we head off on our next stage of the journey.
Happy travelling to your husband on his next journey and may the load be relatively light too for you and yours on this coming phase of life Joan.
Know that while you are here less, the Hive will buzz a little quieter, while keeping you in their thoughts but will be all the more reinvigorated by your more permanent return.
I write from the heart and fast Joan and often worry at the end of a comment that I am overstepping the mark, maybe too overly familiar, this is obviously not my intention, but when one of our very own is hurting, I like them to know they are thought of and thought of well.
God bless.
Supportive words, kindness in thoughts always carry deep meaning.
Taking time to try go through many things along the path one cannot place into one category, changes some good others bad, we managed to get through together.
At the moment certain days numb, other days more constructive in thought, planning or consideration, it all takes time, not that one ever completely gets over the hurdle.
No one ever oversteps the mark when writing what they feel deep down, appreciate expression in words. Each individual takes time, for me I keep busy this assists me in gaining direction, not flailing around with "what if", water continues to go under the bridge. ❤️ Thanks!
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You remain in our thoughts & prayers, dear Lady 💜
Please accept my deepest sympathy. You are in my prayers. ❤️
Kindness in warm words really appreciated.
Hugs 😍
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Please accept my condolences
He lived life to the full, enjoyed what he did, thanks for your kind thoughts.
🙏🙏🙏
Hello dear friend @joanstewart
I'm so sorry for your loss.
The place you chose to say goodbye to your loved one is beautiful, full of wildlife, just like your life partner loved.
My sincere condolences.
It was a wonderful morning where some I never met shared their respect, being in nature with mixed cultures made this a wonderful spot to remember him.
Thanks for kindness and loving thoughts always expressed.
Hi Joan, the speed at which things went downhill for your dearest Rob must still feel surreal! Not an easy journey now, especially with all the legalities, while grieving your life partner of over fifty years. You are in my thoughts dearest Joan, go easy on yourself <3
Taking one day at a time, reality check will hit me once I settle more I am sure. Best Rob being ultra fit not to have lingered, as you said went down very fast actually since the snake bite.
Thanks for being at the other end of the line for quick chats when I popped up for a breather every so often, greatly appreciated❤️
Ach Joan. You have had a rough time of it. You take all the time you need to look after yourself and heal. Sad times indeed
Life takes strange twists and turns when we least expect it, time to ponder what comes next after this shock. Rob will be missed around every corner, life carries on as must I.
We will miss you. We will look forward to your return.
I’m most sorry! Much love and many hugs❤️🫂
Thanks for thoughts and kind message 🤗
We will miss you. We will look forward to your return.
I’m most sorry! Much love and many hugs❤️🫂
Thank you for sharing.
I'm very sorry for your loss Joan, life is such unpredictable and hard at a times. I prefer to stick with the lovely memories and look ahead, it's the only we can do afterwards...
I know that pain since I suffered it hardly several times long ago, my best wishes and hugs goes for you, keep strong and going ahead 🤗
Each life is precious, good memories fun and laughter wash away the tears. Thanks for kind words while facing change, greatly appreciated and do take care.
So sad with everything that went on Joan. The geese and the mongoose squad would have tickled me so I am sure it did Rob too. Take all the time you need and take care of yourself.
Mongoose and geese had a squabble while I was trying to read the eulogy, made it extra special as my niece said, 'Uncle Rob would have loved that'.
Sobering thoughts and events, now to pick up the pieces and keep moving, life is too short never be wasteful of time.
Reading my first post on your account, @joanstewart, I am sorry to read about the loss of your husband. 50 years of life together is wonderful. He lived a full life. It is a very nice tribute you have written. Thank you for sharing it with us. When you are ready, I hope we will read more about how you are doing, in the not too distant future.
We had ridden the waves together through good and bad, life is never easy. Rob lived a full life, enjoyed what he did right to the end before snake bite. I will pop in with short visits for awhile, eventually settle down and start communicating more often.
Hard days. I am so sorry. Wish you peace, and strength.
Thanks for thoughts, one day at a time as always!
My condolences to you and your family. Sending hugs and prayers♥️🙁.
Thanks for kindness and loving thoughts.
A sad one Joan 😞
My condolences again
He is in a restful place now.
It is cool that he was a photography lover like you. It runs in the family I suppose 😊
Keep well 🤗
!PIZZA
Rob's whole working career was in print, photography one of his hobbies. I only started with photography fifteen years ago when arriving online.
Thanks for loving kindness in thoughts and chats, really appreciated during rough times like this.
Amazing how life online exposes us to new hobbies. I can say the same for me, I have come to love photography due to content creating.
It is my pleasure 😊
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!LUV
Appreciate positive energy and love, we are stardust mingling good intent daily.
An honour to have a partner over many years who will be missed, now Rob continues his journey, until then.
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My sincere condolences to you and your family. No pain can be compared to loosing a loved one to death!
Stay strong, cheerful and be surrounded by those who love you. It would take time, but you will be fine.
Hold on to the lovely memories you both shared and remember he would want you to be happy....
Thanks you so much, family are the ones who hold the home together through everything life throws at us.
🥰❤❤
Siento mucho su dolor. Un abrazo
A hug is appreciated, needed during a time like this. 🤗
My sincere condolences.
You were and still are in my thoughts, dear Joan.
Big hug! ❤️❤️❤️
Nothing in life prepares one, thank you for your love and thoughts Neli.
Sending you much love and strength during this difficult time. We'll see you when you're ready
Recent months really the cotton-wool head feel, never knowing next phone call news will bring. Will see you when up and running once again. Thanks for love and support.
Joan, this is such a deeply moving tribute to a life well-lived. The presence of nature—the geese, the mongoose, and the tree—seems to have added a special, almost symbolic touch to the remembrance. Your words beautifully capture the love, respect, and reflection of the day. Wishing you strength as you navigate this chapter, and may your husband’s memory always bring you comfort. Take your time, and we’ll be here whenever you’re ready to return. Sending you warmth and light.
Moment in time captured his quiet ways, being one with nature in the presence of our Creator.
New chapter will be challenging, many memories wrapped up in our African way of life.
Thanks for warms wishes and I will return once I find time to visit once again more regularly.
Sad times, I feel for you Joan, stay strong
All mountains we need to climb eventually turn to a down path, thanks for strength greeting it's needed.
I understand
I'm so sorry for your loss, Joan. Take the time you need to heal. Hive will be here to welcome you back when you return. Blessings to you and your family!
Most turbulent months in my life over last quarter, now realize change we all face one day. Grateful my sons are close, siblings keep constant contact as do friends made from all walks in life.
Sorry about your loss. You will greatly be missed here on hive
Will be back once all legal documents along with other requirements have been cleared. Thanks for your thoughts.
sending you strength Joan. That is some life stuff that is really something else....My deepest condoleances :(
Love and thoughts expressed have been greatly appreciated, take care.
Oh boy Joan I don’t know what to say!
Feeling very sad for you right now and not looking forward to not having you here for a while but you have things to take care of, including yourself.
We will keep the lights on and welcome you back with open arms when you have time to Hive again.
Condolences just won’t do it.
Thanks Zeke, taking time to write helps clear ones emotional baggage, photography has become a hobby I relish sharing.
Life really is arriving/leaving on ones own, what you manage to accomplish is up to each individual, we travelled a long road together through good/bad times yet stood together through it all. ❤️ Appreciate your kind words.
😢😢😢
So sorry for your loss Joan. Your posts about your life together are very moving.
Take all the time you need.
We will all be here waiting for you until you return.
!LUV
Will pop in when time allows, do miss friends online.
Thanks for kind words.
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Thank is nice
Have a wonderful day, thanks for the visit.
You are always welcome
What a beautiful tribute to a life well lived.
Your husband’s love for movement, photography, and time spent with family and pets speaks to a soul that truly embraced the world. It’s heartbreaking that life changed so suddenly after the snake bite, but how wonderful that you honored his wishes and were able to celebrate his life in a place filled with memories. It’s in those shared stories, laughter, and quiet moments of remembrance that his presence will always be felt.
Wishing you strength and comfort as you navigate this new chapter. My prayers and heart will be with you. 😌
Change comes when we least expect it, we only ever appreciate how quickly when it happens within a home. The day turned out exactly how he would have appreciated.
Now we continue with what was started last year, repairing the home and garden, once tidal wave of documentation stops flooding through to update, will slow down leaving me more time to reflect.
Thanks for kind thoughts and words.
I heard recently that your husband passed away, @joanstewart. I’m so sorry to hear it. And I apologize that it took me so long to reach out and give you my heartfelt condolences.
It is always terrible to lose someone, but it is oh so much harder when that someone is a so close and so dear.
I hope you are finding your footing, that your memories fortify you, and that you are surrounded by love and support. ❤️
All very sudden, grateful Rob did not suffer lingering illness.
Currently catching up on backlog, documents, annual renewals and everything that arrives at this time of year.
Grateful I have a son living on the premise in a flatlet, younger son and wife not too far, call regularly to check.
Thank you for kind thoughts, everything takes time, so will pop in when I able till I feel grounded once again.