WORK WITH ME

The Journey of Grief and Self-Awareness

I’m Raquel , the storyteller behind this blog—sharing the lessons grief taught me—offering comfort, clarity, and strength for widows, widowers, and anyone healing after loss. Turning my lived grief into books and gentle resources that help others find strength, hope, and connection after loss.

Learn more
READ BLOG →
SHop My Books

Welcome to the Grieving Pen Project

In today’s fast-paced world, expressing our feelings about loss can often feel overwhelming or even stigmatized. However, the process of grieving is both personal and necessary. That is why we invite you to engage with our community through our Instagram page, @grieving.pen.project. Here, we provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and gain comfort from those who understand the complex emotions associated with grief.

“The journey might have been tough, but the stories will be legendary.”

Raquel Smith

Raquel is a widow, mom of four, and self‑published author who creates heartfelt grief‑support resources for those healing after the loss of a loved one. Through The Grieving Pen Project, she writes books and shares poems about love, faith, and resilience to help widows and widowers find comfort, connection, and hope.

The story of my journey

This is my first book, and it shares my vulnerable and honest experience with loss. Discussing the challenges and unexpected discoveries that come with it. The hope is that this book will offer comfort, validation, and a sense of connection for anyone walking a similar path towards healing.

View →

Blogs of my everyday life

Embracing Joy in Life’s Little Moments

My blog is dedicated to discovering joy and cherishing the small moments that life offers. As a widow who has also experienced the loss of my father and brother, my life has been deeply affected by grief. This blog serves as a reflection of my journey toward finding happiness and meaning in the aftermath of loss.

I intend to share my personal stories about discovering joy, even in the face of life’s challenges. While I may touch upon my grieving process, the primary focus will be on cultivating a positive and fulfilling life. Through sharing my experiences, I aspire to create a space where others can find comfort and inspiration.

Join me on this journey of healing and discovery, and together, let’s reveal the happiness that resides within the everyday.

View →

Journal

This journal is an invitation to embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Through inspiring prompts and creative coloring pages, you will uncover your inner strength and cultivate a deep sense of self-love.

View →

Invite Me to your Book club

Recent Posts

  • Preorder Your Copy of ‘A Garden Grows Where Fairies Roam’
    Social media 
    Instagram: @grieving.pen.project

    Preorder Your Copy of ‘A Garden Grows Where Fairies Roam’

    Introducing My New Book I’m thrilled to announce the upcoming release of my latest book, A Garden Grows Where Fairies Roam: A Tale of Grief and Magic. This enchanting story explores deep themes of loss and healing, woven together with a sprinkle of magic and fairy lore. It’s a tale that will resonate with anyone…

  • Embracing Life After Loss: Lessons from Grief
    Social media 
    Instagram: @grieving.pen.project

    Embracing Life After Loss: Lessons from Grief

    Understanding My Journey with Grief The tenth anniversary of my husband’s death has arrived, and I find myself engulfed in a whirlwind of emotions. Some days, it feels as though a decade has passed, while other moments grip me with the raw intensity of yesterday. As a woman who has become intimately acquainted with grief,…

  • Navigating November: Embracing Regret as a Teacher
    Social media 
    Instagram: @grieving.pen.project

    Navigating November: Embracing Regret as a Teacher

    October’s Weight November has always been a complicated month for me. After the somber reflections of October—a month holding both the birth and death of my brother—I often find myself emotionally drained. October carries a weight that leaves me reflective, sometimes exhausted. As November arrives, it should signal joy: birthdays, Thanksgiving, and the start of…

“Books Reading” by Lia Leslie/ CC0 1.0

Connect with Others

At the Grieving Pen Project, we believe in the power of connection. By following us on Instagram, you will have the opportunity to interact with a diverse community of individuals who are navigating similar journeys. Each post is carefully curated to foster support and understanding, showcasing stories, reflections, and insights that resonate deeply with those in mourning.

Find Comfort and Support

Our Instagram page offers not just a platform for sharing, but also resources to help you through your grieving process. From thoughtful quotes to guided activities, we strive to provide content that uplifts and empowers our followers. We encourage you to join us and participate in our ongoing conversations, contributing your voice to a narrative that promotes healing.

Follow @grieving.pen.project today and become part of a community where your feelings are validated and your journey honored.

Books and Blogs

Our latest and greatest