2018 was a hard year, but one we will always treasure.⠀ In January, Mum, after living a fulfilling independent life on the shores of Ohiwa Harbour in the Bay of Plenty, came to live with us at our home in suburban Auckland as even the simple things were just getting a bit too hard for her.⠀ Within a month she was diagnosed with cancer and within 3 months had become completely dependent. On September 6th 2018 Joan Malloch (née Wakefield) died in our home, surrounded by her family. For two more days we continuted to look after her as she lay in her wicker casket before she was farewelled in a private family ceremony.⠀ A week later, at the Opōtiki Art Society Hall, we remembered and farewelled her with her friends and relatives in a joyous celebration of her life. ⠀ This week my sister Sandra and I, along with our partners John and Toni, spent time together back at her house and then at a bach on Ohiwa beach.⠀ The rain from a tropical storm had been constant, but by Christmas evening the clouds were clearing and the light again shone bright as the sun dropped below the horizon.⠀ This is my first post on Instagram since April, when life’s priorities suddenly changed.⠀ 1 photo of a set of 3. ⠀ In darkness, the light shines brightest.⠀ …⠀ If this picture seems incomplete, then please view it in context in my profile.⠀ …⠀ 📷© @adrianmallochphotography , #allrightsreserved #landscape, #seascape #ohiwabeach #weather #christmas #clouds #bayofplenty #family #grief #dark #light #canon #sigma24-35 #documentaryphotography #storytellingphotography @jordanmalloch @streetstatik @tonimalloch https://www.instagram.com/p/Br4fFM9FEK3/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1f1mcjtj13a7u