Let’s face it, most of us are not sad to see the end of 2020. However, as we look back on a crazy and tumultuous year, there are also blessings to be found. For my own family, 2020 brought our baby Gage Louis into our lives. We spent quality time with each other without the distractions of activities, school, and even jobs to leave the house for. We were able to spend time focused on each other– playing together, exploring together, and just generally loving each other. Similar to us, there were lots of others that chose to focus on the positive and see the undistracted time together as a blessing.

Families

Seniors

While the circumstances were not ideal, seniors still graduated. They celebrated their hard work that had gotten them to the end. They were recognized not only for their academic achievements, but for their ability to adapt and overcome a situation that was not ideal. They found ways to make their final year exciting and special. Proms were held in living rooms through ZOOM calls, parking lot car hang outs became a social activity, and graduation ceremonies were held online or as “drive by” events.

Couples

Couples celebrated their love– both new and time-tested. Some found a way to unite their lives together despite the limits on their ceremony or guest list. Some chose to elope, knowing that the most important part of a wedding is ending the day married to your best friend. Another year also saw another round of anniversaries to recognize. Anniversaries that mean one more year of choosing to love each other every day, of devotion and sacrifice, of growing and learning together.

Births

Some families grew in size. New parents were excited about the tangible reminder of their love they would bring home. Siblings counted down the days until they could meet their little baby brother or sister. Births became intimate affairs between mom, dad, and baby. Although waiting rooms weren’t filled with family members eager to get a peek at the newest baby to join, video chats allowed families to be together for momentous occasions.

So while 2020 was full of chaos, confusion, and sadness– it also was filled with joy, with love, and with spirit. Here’s to the year 2020 and hoping that 2021 will shine a little brighter!!!