2021 stinks. Or does it?

As the malls start to play Christmas songs, and the year runs down to its inevitable end, I'll just start by saying - we survived. Sorta.

Soaked in the festive mood, but yet taking in the harsh realities of what Covid has done to us at the same time, I took a while to gather my thoughts to pen this. This year has definitely been one to remember, for all its fragilities and dualities. For every small win that we can celebrate, we would be countered with the seemingly overused phrase of "one step forward, two steps back". For weddings to take place, we have to adapt to the many restrictions to limit the spread of Covid.

I hate Covid. I really do.

As a father of a 2-year old, I say this. It has messed up our lives. But then again, we have to forsake all the negativity and relive the positives. Sulking probably is not going to do anyone, any good in the long run. When focused on the positives, I'd say this year has been awesome. Hear me out.

Thanks to Covid, I've visited and photographed at more new, unique locations that I could have never imagined, I've met couples that wouldn't even consider me if they had taken the opportunity to have their pre-weddings sessions in Prague or Cappadocia. I got to meet and learn more about people from all walks of life, really, more than I could ever in a year. I got to meet and celebrate couples like Hexin and Lelouch, who gave me much more than just monetary support. I've known more industry friends this year and while I've not met most of them irl, the problems we face are similar and we all understand the issues and pains we have to go through - there's that strong bond.

I've had (and still have) the support of my wife, whom I can now see and lunch with every day because she gets to work from home. I get to spend more time with the kiddo just because of my job and the flexibility that comes with it.

All I'm saying is, as long as we focus on the positives - 2022 is probably gonna be another rockin' year.