So far 2016 has been quite a year.

A few months ago my partners Grandad passed away. Shortly after my Grandma passed away. We decided that we should photograph both days. We are not going to share all the images in this blog but I did want to share some of the images taken around the days and some of the images that we created as a way to remember the days.

Norman was an amazing person. I only ever met him once however he was the most welcoming man I had met in a long time. We chatted like we had known each other for years. He had a very full and amazing life, from his time with the RAF to working for BAE his passion for technology was something that kept his mind tack sharp even after retirement for years. I can only imagine the person he was back when he was fighting fit.

All photos are released with family permissions.

Norman was a much loved brother, father, grandfather and friend.

Marianne Piper was my Grandma on my dad’s side. She was an amazing lady. Strong willed yet very giving and loving. Marianne had an eventful life, full of travelling, full of spirit and kindness. I will forever cherish the memories I have.

As you might notice – above and blow, the images end with a colour image. Norman’s is a sunrise from the morning of his funeral & Marianne’s is a sunset from the day we sad our goodbyes.  When we decided to take a camera to both of these funerals we also wanted to create something meaningful that we could hang on our walls to look at everyday. As the two funerals were so close, to Stephie and I, they are linked. These two images are very special to us, they mark the two very important dates.

There is a song written by John Glynn that seems to be one of those songs that follows me though life. It breaks my heart to just even think of the words. John is a former priest, but, religious or not, these words do connect with me and did inspire, for me anyway, the idea of capturing the sunrise and the sunset for Norman & Marianne.

I watch the sunrise lighting the sky,
Casting its shadows near.
And on this morning,
Bright though it be,
I feel those shadows near me.

But you are always close to me,
Following all my ways.
May I be always close to you,
Following all your ways Lord.

I watch the sunlight shine through the clouds,
Warming the earth below.
And at the midday life seems to say,
I feel your brightness near me.

For you are always close to me,
Following all my ways.
May I be always close to you,
Following all your ways Lord.

I watch the sunset, fading away,
Lighting the clouds and sea.
And as the evening, closes its eyes,
I feel your presence near me.

Yes, you are always close to me
Following all my ways.
May I be always close to you,
Following all your ways Lord.

If you wish to listen to a wonderful version of this song – click here

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If you are struggling with the the loss of a loved one – samaritans.org is a great place to ask for help or advice. There is always someone to talk to. Feeling sad or lonely is a very natural feeling after the loss of a family member, partner or friend. Sharing your worries can be a massive weight lifted of your shoulders.