35 Comments
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perfectlight's avatar

is good to have you back

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thank you!

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Susanne Helmert's avatar

I immediately thought of your parents when I saw your newsletter. I am so sorry for your loss, Stella. But what you have shared about your family with us, gives me the impression that he was able to go in peace, surrounded by left ones and well cared for.

Your words really resonated with me today. Thank you for sharing your wonderful writing and your amazing art with us.

Welcome back!

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thank you, Susanne. Your reply means a lot. Dad passed away quietly in the early morning. He was peaceful and comfortable - gratitude goes to his caregivers and hospice doctor. I am glad to be writing and sharing photographs again. Truly appreciate your support.

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Shital Morjaria (she/her)'s avatar

Sorry about your father Stella. Around here we say “ life is a bubble” and that’s what it is. It’s good to have you back. The photographs are lovely and as always your writing. Breaks away from everything are so important.

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thank you so much, Shital. Life is a bubble indeed.

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Maya's avatar

❤️

To everything there is a season.

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Amen. It has been a tough season. Glad to have spent time with you, Butch, and Santiago in May and in August. Thank you! 🙏

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Andrew Eberlin's avatar

Welcome home, Stella. You’ve had an intense few months. I hope you enjoy getting back into the rhythm.

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thanks, Andrew! Glad to hear from you. I hope all is well.

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Beth T (BethOfAus)'s avatar

Sending so many hugs and best wishes. What a time you’ve had. Thank goodness for the Paris interlude! It came at the perfect time. Take your time dear Stella. I suspect a return to some form of routine will be much appreciated. But Rest well. 🤗🤗❤️💕

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

I feel the hug, Beth. Thank you. I’m taking it slow and easy as I go back to my routine here at home. How are things with you? I hope you are well and still creating art.

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Beth T (BethOfAus)'s avatar

Life is good for me. Housesitting at the moment, looking after two dogs and five chooks, and yes, still doing my little bits of daily art. 🤗🤗

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

That’s wonderful, Beth. So happy to hear that.

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Jen Mayer | Makeist's avatar

Welcome back!

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thanks, Jen!

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Ann Collins's avatar

I feel you, Stella, for the loss of your father. How well you’ve loved him and been a comfort in this last year of his life! I’m so glad you and your Love had the extended time together in Paris. Welcome back ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

So good to hear from you, Ann! Thank you. I’m at peace knowing I took the time to be with my parents last year and back in May. Paris was good timing. Focusing on the beauty of the city was what I needed to lift my spirits and rest from all the has transpired. Glad to be back here! As always, thank you for your support.

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Allyson Bunting's avatar

Welcome back, and you capturing and enjoying these moment's of joy!

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thanks, A! Yes to joy. And, we’re happy to be back home. T and I walked along the marina this morning. Ahh, so good. More photographs to come. Stay tuned! As always, grateful for your lifelong friendship.

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Sheila Moeschen's avatar

Welcome back and only the lightest, most beautiful healing energy to you and your family. Thank you for sharing these delicious photographs! I love the play, whimsy, and simple joy. Here in America we are heading into a very stressful stretch of days and, maybe, weeks. It helps to remember that in the midst of fear, uncertainty, and dread there is pleasure, levity, and light.

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thanks, Sheila! I hear you about the US. While I was away, I wrote postcards to get out the vote targeting the swing states. I had to do something. Many of us don’t want a repeat of 2016– that was heartbreaking. Let’s cross our fingers America gets it right this time around.

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Sheila Moeschen's avatar

Thank you for your efforts! Yes-many, many of us do not want Fascism. All hands on every oar to bring this boat around ❤️✌🏼

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Zachary Ayotte's avatar

So nice to hear from you, Stella. I'm sorry for your loss.

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thank you, Zachary. So nice to hear from you! I appreciate it.

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Alice Goldbloom's avatar

Stunning photos. Absolutely.

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thank you, Alice!

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Jenny Reilly's avatar

What a gift to see your name in my inbox today. Prayers as you continue to navigate a deep loss. And as you get back into daily rhythms. I love love love these bubble images!!!!

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thank you, Jenny! I’m so glad to hear from you. Prayers are welcome indeed. I so appreciate it. 🙏❤️

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Juliette's avatar

I'm new to your Substack but as someone who has experienced a lot of loss myself in the last five years, I sincerely hope that you find grace in every creative endeavor. They saved me. My condolences for your loss.

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

So sorry for your loss, Juliette. I’m glad you joined Substack. So far, the people that I’ve met here are supportive and friendly. I hope that will be your experience too. Writing, photographing, and collaging has indeed carried me through this difficult time. It has been a constant in my life and I’m grateful for it.

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Al Adlard's avatar

Beautiful, Stella... I love the bubbles and your reflection on the ephemeralness of life ❤️🫧

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Thank you, Al.

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Rebecca Holden's avatar

Oh Stella, it's lovely to see you. I am so sorry for your loss. 😘

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Stella Kalaw's avatar

Good to hear from you, Rebecca. And thank you. 🙏

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