“I am seeking. I am striving. I am in it with all my heart.”
— ” Vincent van Gogh
The Mystic Reels are a collection of the moments that called me home. The waterfalls, lakes, deep forests, and the wild magic that shapes my writing. this is where I wander, breathe, and let the earth whisper its stories to my soul.
time to heal
It never occurred to me, before moving from Arizona, the place of my birth, the only place I had ever called home, that I would face so much loss once I had left the safety of that home.
In the time I've been a Washington resident, I have lost so many dear friends and loved ones. The souls that I mourn were precious, vibrant, and are dearly missed.
Cancer, heart disease, and unfortunately, the tragedy of suicide has touched my life too many times to count.
I myself have seen the darkness and have been tempted by its silent void…but feelings are fleeting…there is no emotion in this life that is permanent.
The breakup may be permanent, but the heartache will ease. The illness may be permanent, but there will be days of joy. The nights may seem endless, but the sun will rise again.
If you ever feel so hopeless that you aren’t sure you can go on, I am here; reach out to me.
Your presence in this world matters; you are needed. Please, never give up. Live to see the sun shine another day.
whispers of the ravensdale cemetery
The Sound of Silence - Disturbed
I have loved history and relics of the past for as long as I can remember. This is one of the many reasons that I chose to write about vampires. The allure of combing through history for lost civilizations, untold stories, and people lost to the past…it is intoxicating. It fuels my imagination and conjures tales of struggle, loss, and courage.
our visit to the ravensdale cemetery was a haunting representation of the hardships early settlers endured.
Simple Things - Teddy Swims
Video: LR Sherwood
NEver GIve up
When life gets hard, you truly find out what you are made of. I never thought that I would have the strength to face the hardships that I have survived…but here I am.
Stronger than ever.
Tattoo therapy
Eyes On Me - Celine Dion
Tattoo by Matt @Paradox Tattoo Bonney Lake, Wa
Upon my return to Washington State as an adult, I was utterly captivated by the mystical allure of the cherry trees. the beauty was so striking that I initially believed the first one I encountered was artificial.
Lighthouses have also long held a strong fascination for me. Their imposing size, enduring stature, and rich historical significance continue to draw me in.
For these reasons, I acquired my newest body art after moving here, I absolutely love it!
Just breathe
Oceans - Hillsong United
Cover by - Kenna Childs
Video: LR Sherwood
Living in the Pacific Northwest has brought me a measure of peace I never knew existed. I am grateful for the small moments with nature that keep me grounded and moving forward in this chaotic world.
Victor Falls
This little slice of heaven is not far from our new home. We spend a lot of time here and do a lot of healing as we watch the leaves change colors, and see the silver water as it cascades through the rocks. The natural beauty around us provides a constant source of comfort and rejuvenation, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s a place where we can reconnect with nature, find serenity, and simply breathe. These moments of peace are essential for my creative process, allowing me to tap into a deeper well of inspiration.
Natural Beauty - Spiritual Gardens
Video: LR Sherwood
embrace the light
In the Forest - Lesfm
Video: LR Sherwood
Turn your face towards the sunshine and let the shadows fall behind you. Embrace the light, the warmth, and the opportunities that come with each new day. Find joy in the present moment, and let go of the worries and anxieties that hold you back. With each sunrise, there's a chance for a fresh start, a chance to shine, and a chance to create a life filled with positivity and hope.
On My Life - Oliver Michael
Video: LR Sherwood
the forest calls to me…
The Forest, the moss, the fog…all of the things that I longed for while growing up in Arizona. I am eternally grateful for every breath of fresh air, every gloriously foggy day, and every dream brought to fruition. These elements, once a distant yearning, now form the very essence of my surroundings and inspire a deep sense of contentment. The Pacific Northwest has not only met my desires but has exceeded them, offering a sanctuary where the spirit soars and creativity flourishes.
let it snow
Video: LR Sherwood
I moved here for moments like this.
My first snowfall and I am absolutely spellbound!
our epic adventures
Hall of Fame - The Script
Cover by: Pharaoh Remix
Creator: L.R. Sherwood
The things that I have seen and experienced since moving to Washington have far surpassed every dream I had conjured during my life in the desert. In my writing, I have tried to capture the feeling of the Pacific Northwest in my books. And while, on one hand, I think I did quite well, considering I was writing from a concrete jungle…I honestly don’t think that there are any words that can capture the epic beauty to be found here.