There was a long season in my life when the storm didn't pass. The days blurred together. I forgot to eat, forgot to speak, and some mornings I had to remind myself to simply breathe. Work kept me standing. Everything else went quiet.
And through all of it, there was Tobby, our chocolate Labrador. On the darkest nights he would come close, rest his wet nose on my hand and look into my eyes. Nothing more. He stayed as near as he could, and his warmth brought me back. In the mornings, he was the one who wouldn't let me stay in bed.
The worst of the storm has passed. The darkness hasn't fully lifted yet, but I am no longer standing still in it. I won't pretend I've reached some final shore; some days I still feel like I'm drifting. But I've learned that coming back isn't one big moment. It's a warm light in the evening. A cup of tea I actually finish. A walk with a dog who believes every single day is worth it.
My family is my anchor. And like every family, we've learned that when storms come, you learn to swim together.
HerWay is where I keep the small things that helped me find my way back: cozy corners, slow rituals, and the tiny victories that once felt like the whole world. I'm writing it first for myself, to remember that I made it through. And maybe for you, if you are somewhere in the middle of your own storm.
You're not alone. Take a breath. We'll find our way.
With love, and a wet nose from Tobby
Read the Journal → · Read Tobby's story in the Journal →
“The site will grow along with me. Right now it's about the dark, because that's where I am. When I find my way to the light, it will go there too, and take everyone who reads it along.”