2020: The Year We Want to Forget, But Can't (And What We Can Learn from It)
Hey there, fellow survivor of the infamous year 2020! I think we can all collectively agree we want to bury that chaotic rollercoaster into the deepest corners of our memory banks? But if we really think about it, amidst the uncertainty, fear and anxiety that was 2020, there were lessons to be learned, silver linings to be found so to speak that have now made us better people. And I choose to focus on that. So, grab your coffee, get cozy, and let's reminisce about the year that felt like a decade packed into twelve long months.
2020 - New Words, New Life And The Yearning For A Hug
Remember when we entered 2020 with such high hopes? Like every new year, so much hope and planning for the next 12 months. Little did we know, we were about to be collectively slapped in the face by a pandemic. Ah, COVID-19, the uninvited guest that just wouldn't leave. Suddenly, phrases like "social distancing," "lockdown," and "toilet paper shortage" became part of our daily vocabulary. I never knew I could miss a hug so much until it was forbidden. How obscure does that sound?
2020 For Our Family.
Our first year in North Carolina was in 2020. I can't believe we've been here for a year, it went a lot quicker than we expected. With all the lockdowns, no sports, working from home and virtual school one would think it would have went much slower. It did have us all slow down and really appreciate the important things our family, our health, quality time together that has now turned into cabin fever.
As things open back up, I almost don't even remember the hard parts of 2020 (well except the infamous toilet paper shortage). I'm left remembering getting much needed quality time with my boys, who are one foot out the door, long chats with my husband as we both worked from home. I was so worried about trying to rebuild my photography business here in North Carolina but found myself enjoying learning new skills (macro, double exposures, film,self portraits) and most importantly learning about myself. This is something I have 2020 to thank for.
How We Kept Busy in 2020
We've enjoyed getting out and exploring our new hometown of Winston Salem, especially the amazing outdoors. We live next to Pilot Mountain State Park and Hanging Rock State Park, my boys literally hiked everyday after school. The bond this year has brought them is priceless to see. Moms, I'm sure you understand. We look forward to Dash baseball games in May, exploring more restaurants in downtown, and really look forward to meeting some amazing new friends here. As for my boys they are looking forward to getting back to school (well the oldest App State junior is), the youngest getting his drivers license and probably getting into trouble like a normal teenager can.
Looking back almost a year later, if there's one thing 2020 taught us, it's resilience. We adapted like champions and really made the best of what we had. I'm so proud of our family for this.
How 2020 Changed The World
Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, humanity revealed its remarkable capacity for resilience. We adapted, we persevered, and we found solace in the midst of adversity. From healthcare workers on the frontlines to essential workers keeping society afloat, from neighbors lending a helping hand to strangers offering words of encouragement, we witnessed acts of kindness and compassion that illuminated the darkness.
And perhaps most importantly, 2020 reminded us of the power of human connection. Despite being physically apart, we found ways to stay connected with our loved ones. Whether it was through virtual game nights or impromptu dance parties over video chat, we proved that distance is no match for friendship and love.
The Things I Most Look Forward To
I am looking forward to getting back out on the sports field photographing all those amazing moments. I also look forward to capturing your Senior year and that excitement as you leave out on this new journey, college, a new job, traveling the world (I'm so ready to travel again)! And I'm excited to share my own journey, photography and personal, here in North Carolina with you.
Here's to hoping that 2021 brings us a little less chaos and a lot more joy. But hey, if it doesn't, at least we'll be prepared with our face masks and Zoom accounts. Bring it on, universe. We're ready for whatever you throw our way.
Stay safe, stay hopeful, and remember, we're all in this together, even if we're six feet apart. Cheers to better days ahead!
Love,
Lissa
Hi! And Thanks For Reading. I'm Lissa. I'm a North Carolina Based Photographer, Mom, Wife, Adventurer, Teacher and Avid Traveller. I love all things Outdoors, Paris, Vintage and Nostalgia. Creativity is the way I express love and so I take photos, write, create art and home decor. To read more about me and my journey, read my whole story here!
Also, be sure to join the mailing list to be notified of updates on new collections, my artistic process & inspirations, my travels in midlife, photography tips, empty nesting & everything in between.
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