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A Widow Heals The Pain Of Her Lost Love Through His Photographs

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Images from Instagram(@Anjalipinto)

After one year and three months without her husband Jacob Johnson by her side, Anjali Pinto, a Chicago-based photographer and widow continues to document his photographs on Instagram, thereby healing the pain of losing her love

Text credits: Lakshmi Priya

With tears, stress, and trauma, most of us have battled with our pain of losing someone close to heart. Confronting the death of someone who had seen the best and worst and stood with us during the good and bad is one of the most challenging situations. But Anjali Pinto, Chicago based photographer and a widow is facing this challenge of losing her husband Jacob Johnson with more power and strength. She breaks the taboo on grief and heals her pain through her Instagram account by documenting the photographs of Jacob and her life after his death and sharing them with her 51,300 followers.

Anjali’s journey of healing began on January 1, 2017, a day after she lost her husband due to an undiagnosed heart condition. Amidst the heart-throbbing pain, Anjali captured a photo of her holding the hands of her husband who was laying in the hospital bed. She posted it on her Instagram account with details of the funeral.

From then on, Anjali’s Instagram account started flooding with his photographs and memories they made together. Four years of knowing each other and one and a half years of being married, the photographs are not only about the memories they lived but also the spellbinding love and intimacy they shared. Anjali’s heart-breaking descriptions under each photo, about the endless love they shared, definitely leaves many in tears.

We would often travel near our birthdays, born 3 years and 3 days apart. 2013 New York, 2014 Mexico, 2015 Austin, 2016 New Zealand, 2017 to be India. I remember so vividly our side trip from Isla Mujeres to see the ruins in Tulum and the Gran Cenote. We were so very happy, in crystal water and warm sun. When other people were taking pictures of the beauty of nature itself, my camera was so focused on him. I was in wonder of this man, so sure of himself, so comfortable in every setting & so easy to please. How did I snag someone this beautiful? He's perfect for me. Last night I dreamt he came home from work, carrying packages from the front hallway as he often did. He had a big smile on his face, I thought maybe he was carrying a present for me. I had told him not to get me anything. The sight of him startled me awake, shot me out of slumber. I saw what he was wearing and the way he looked at me, but I didn't get to hug him. Lying there, mad at myself for not continuing the dream, desperate to look at him again, I remember today is my birthday and it is the first I'll have to spend without him.

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The trips they made, the family meets they attended, the restaurants they visited, even the warm hugs and kisses are beautifully captured.

I never got to thank him for how much he adored my physical person. He never once made anything but positive remarks about my body and my size. A week before he died, I was venting to him over text about how I had gained back 6 of the 18 pounds I had worked all year to lose. "There, there boo. I love you," he wrote. It seems wild to think that I was convinced that losing weight would make my life better. I was the happiest. One's health is not measured by physical fitness or outward appearance, or he would be alive today. When we had our wellness visit in preparation for purchasing life insurance, I was embarrassed that I weighed 20 pounds more than him on the same scale. All the love and respect he showed me has a permanent place in my mind. I may never feel more beautiful than the way he saw me, but remembering his gaze and his love has drastically improved my self worth. It's skewed my perception to reality – you are beautiful. (We all are). Photo by @vnina ❤️

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The friendship of Anjali and Jacob began through Instagram.  After four years of friendship and love, they tied the knot to each other. Jacob was an expert hammock-napper, Snapchat star and meticulous NPR storyteller.  Anjali recalls the good memories of her wedding day and suddenly feels the pain thinking how everything will be fine without him.

I am keeping myself so together, feeling sure of the two feet I stand on when I turn out of bed each morning. Then a song plays and I'm transported, and begin to feel the unraveling. How can everything be okay without him? Last night I found myself swaying, remembering so vividly a moment from our wedding. Everyone was on the dance floor, but the venue needed us out. Music stopped and everyone turned to Michael and chanted "ONE MORE SONG, one more song." Heart of Gold by Charles Bradley came on, Jacob put his arms firmly around me and we kissed through huge smiles. Trumpets sounded as our feet shuffled. We were the last people to leave, we stopped to thank every person working and assured them that everything was exactly how we had dreamed. We turned back to look at the empty space, in disbelief of how life could be so good to us.

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Grief is different for everyone. Some people cry, some deny the fact that the person is no more and some even slowly push themselves into a stage of depression. Like every other person, Anjali has her own break-down moments. Still, at the end of the day, she puts back the bits and pieces of the strength left in her to inspire the world out there. By letting the world know the kindness and love of Jacob, Anjali is doing her best for her husband. She proves the fact that love does not die along with the person whom we love, but instead, it grows.

Grief is very much a taboo in our culture. As much as we want to help people that are hurting, we are never taught what to say or do to help. We avoid the conversation all together, or talk about something that makes us more comfortable. People have said to me, meaning to be supportive, remarks that are so upsetting it's mind boggling. "I know what it's like to be lonely, well not as lonely as you," or "I'm so happy for you," or "If I were you I would just want to go back to my routine," I have no desire to be critical of people, it brings me no pleasure. I want to be thankful, that I am alive, that I am supported. I want to take what they meant to say instead of what I heard, which is "you're in my thoughts." For each of the really dark days I've encountered since Jacob died, I have had a mechanism to cope. Friends, traveling, my family, his family, great books, massages, nature. If you have a friend or a loved one going through a loss, do not assume what they are feeling. Do not tell them everything will be okay. Do not tell them what you would have done if you were in their situation. Just listen. Be patient. Be compassionate. Be flexible. Show up. Tell them something that you loved or admired about the person that's gone. If you never met them, say you wish you had. Acknowledge their loss. Thank you to each and every one of you who has shown up.

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Motherhood in Vogue :Deepika Padukone’s Stunning Maternity Photoshoot

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Deepika Padukone and Ranveer Singh are eagerly awaiting the arrival of their first child, due later this month. In anticipation of this joyous milestone, the couple recently shared a series of heartwarming photos from their pregnancy photoshoot. The pictures beautifully capture mom-to-be Deepika flaunting her baby bump, while others showcase the couple sharing joyful moments, their smiles wide and laughter contagious.

In the photos, Deepika stuns in various outfits. She rocks mom jeans paired with a lacy bra and cardigan in the first few shots, exuding casual elegance. In another set, she channels her inner boss lady in a sleek black pantsuit. A third look features Deepika in a see-through maxi dress, where she is captured twirling and lost in thought. For her final look, she dons a black, see-through bodycon dress, posing alongside her husband Ranveer in a series of intimate and stylish shots. The couple captioned their post with a few simple emojis, but that was enough to ignite a flurry of reactions from fans.

Deepika and Ranveer first announced their pregnancy on February 29, just before attending Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant’s pre-wedding bash in Jamnagar. Their announcement featured a postcard with the word “September” and adorable drawings of baby accessories. Following the news, Deepika faced criticism and accusations of faking her baby bump. However, with this stunning photoshoot, she has gracefully silenced her detractors, proving once again that she is in full command of her narrative.

 

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Architecture

Creating a Cozy Living Room: Tips for Comfort and Style

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Your living room is more than just a space for entertaining; it’s a sanctuary where you unwind, relax, and spend quality time with loved ones. Creating a cozy living room involves a blend of comfort and style that makes the space inviting and functional. Here are some tips to help you achieve that perfect balance:

Choose the Right Furniture

Start with furniture that combines comfort and functionality. Opt for a plush sofa with deep cushions, perfect for lounging. Consider adding a cozy armchair or a recliner for additional seating. Make sure the furniture arrangement promotes conversation and allows for easy movement throughout the room.

Layer Your Lighting

Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood. Use a mix of lighting sources to create a warm ambiance. Combine overhead lights with floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces. For added coziness, incorporate dimmers or smart bulbs that let you adjust the brightness to suit different times of day and activities.

Add Textures with Throws and Pillows

Textures are key to a cozy living room. Layer different fabrics, such as soft throw blankets, plush pillows, and textured rugs. Choose fabrics like wool, velvet, and cotton that add warmth and comfort. Mix and match patterns and colors to create visual interest and a personalized touch.

Incorporate Warm Colors

Color influences the feel of a room. Opt for warm, neutral tones like beige, taupe, or soft gray for a calming effect. Accents in rich colors like deep blues, earthy greens, or warm terracotta can add depth and coziness. Use these colors in your furniture, accessories, and wall decor.

Use Rugs to Define Spaces

Rugs can help define different areas within a living room and add a layer of warmth underfoot. Choose a rug that complements your furniture and adds softness to the space. A large area rug can anchor the room, while smaller rugs can be used to highlight specific areas, like a reading nook or conversation zone.

 Incorporate Natural Elements

Bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural elements. Plants not only add a touch of greenery but also improve air quality and create a calming atmosphere. Choose low-maintenance plants like succulents or snake plants if you’re not an avid gardener. Wooden furniture or decor pieces can also add a natural, grounded feel to the room.

Personalize with Artwork and Décor

Add personality to your living room with artwork and decorative items that reflect your style. Choose pieces that resonate with you, whether it’s family photos, abstract art, or vintage finds. Arrange decor items in groups to create visual interest and avoid clutter.

Create a Focal Point

A focal point helps draw the eye and creates a sense of balance in the room. This could be a fireplace, a statement piece of art, or a stylish coffee table. Arrange your furniture and decor around this focal point to enhance the room’s overall cohesion and appeal.

Invest in Quality Window Treatments

Window treatments can impact both the look and feel of your living room. Opt for curtains or blinds that provide privacy while allowing natural light to filter through. Choose fabrics that complement your decor and add texture, such as linen or velvet.

Add Personal Touches

Finally, make the space truly yours by adding personal touches. Incorporate items that have sentimental value or reflect your interests and hobbies. Whether it’s a collection of travel souvenirs, a beloved quilt, or unique decorative objects, these elements will make your living room feel more inviting and personal.

By thoughtfully combining these elements, you can create a cozy living room that serves as a comfortable retreat and a stylish gathering place for friends and family. Enjoy the process of making your space uniquely yours and revel in the comfort and warmth it provides.

 

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People

JLO’s Bridgerton Themed Birthday Bash

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There are two types of diamonds in the Bridgerton universe: the diamond of the season and the queen who selects it. Without a doubt, Jennifer Lopez belongs to the latter group.

JLO brought Bridgerton to life this past weekend in the Hamptons, where she threw an amazing event to celebrate turning 55. The celebration featured a live orchestra and a horse-drawn carriage, among other features more commonly found at social gatherings in the early 1800s. Naturally, Lady Whistletown was not prepared for the glitzy Regency-era attire either. 

In her first ensemble designed by Manish Malhotra, she looked downright royal in a stunning light blue ball gown with a bodice piece that had off-the-shoulder cuffs and gilded diamond-shaped embroidery. The gown was worn over a full skirt that was embroidered with larger-than-life gold floral motifs.

Lopez wore few accessories and let the dress do the talking because of how grand the ensemble was. She chose stud earrings, a basic pendant necklace, and sheer white opera gloves. She had a gold laurel crown in her hair.

Jennifer transformed into something a bit more fluid later in the evening, which made it easier for her to move around the dance floor and interact with other attendees. This second dress was a gauzy moss-green number with a sequined floral bust, and it too had an off-the-shoulder neckline.

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