A year ago Ellen and I had just returned from a wonderful European river cruise. It had been our first trip to Europe. The euphoria of that trip though had quickly disappeared on learning I had come down with a serious health issue. By the time my issues had been dealt with all of us were living under the black cloud of Covid 19.
The combination of living in a bubble, lockdowns and medical procedures has meant that this year I have made about one quarter of the images I usually would make. But I’ve not been idle!
There has been much recreational reading. I discovered 4 or 5 authors whose writings I thoroughly enjoy. Two of the series I’m reading are based in Europe. Our trip there has given context to their story lines. At one point during the first lock down I was reading a book every 4 to 5 days. In my world that’s called devouring a book.
Much time was devoted to the renovation of my website. When that was complete I thought it looked pretty good. Unfortunately, I didn’t account for an upgrade that WordPress was planning to conduct. It was a ‘no choice’ operation that when it occurred the design features I had employed were altered. So, I still have some work to do.
Most significantly, I started and have almost completed my long planned coffee table book about Kelowna’s Fascieux Creek Wetland. Narrowing thousands of images to a manageable group and then to the final selection of less than 100 was definitely a chore, albeit a pleasant chore. Currently, I’m writing the text that will accompany the images. This is a slow process but so far so good.
I began my Instagram Project in early January where I posted an image every day. My next blog post, the first of 2021, will be devoted to this project.
It’s fair to conclude that none of the above would have occurred had Covid not been a factor. Trips planned to Mexico and to visit our son and his family in Michigan would not have been cancelled. More than likely, we would have made several trips to Vancouver Island too. Both at home and away my camera would have been busy.
In early December, one more distraction was added to the mix. A puppy! A twenty week old bundle of fun, energy and mischief has quickly become a valued family member. He, Tucker, loves to play in the park in front of our home, cuddle and camp out under my chair when I’m editing images. He even gives us an undisturbed night of sleep. His happy demeanour has been part of a very different yet meaningful Christmas season.
For seven and half years I’ve used this space to tell the stories behind my photography. As much as I love to make photographs I love to write. Readers from many different places have read my articles. I’ve appreciated the comments I’ve received and questions that some have asked. Sometime in 2021 a better, new normal will have settled in. I’m looking forward to making more images and continuing to tell my story.
Best wishes to all my readers for a happy and safe Yew Year! I so much appreciate your interest and support.
Alan Flynn
1 Jan 2021A pleasure to read your blog Stu and see your beautiful photographs. A shame that we all have had our holidays and visits to our families curtailed but hopefully there is light at the end of the tunnel with the arrival of the vaccine.
You new family member sounds fun and I look forward to seeing Tucker.
All the best for 2021 and stay safe.
Alan
Sheryl Korsch
1 Jan 2021Thank You, Stu, for the FB postings I’ve had the privilege to observe! 🙂 The armchair travels have been Wonderful!! Looking forward to many more Beautiful, Intriquing, Interesting and EnJOYable photos on your FB page!!
Happy New Year 2021!! Stay Safe and Well, Ellen and Stu!
Stu Dale
2 Jan 2021Happy New Year to you as well Sheryl. I’m glad you enjoy my photography. It means a lot.
Hart Downey
2 Jan 2021Dear Stu,
Thanks for the pictures and the blog, I really enjoy them so much!
Happy and Healthy New Year
Hart
Stu Dale
2 Jan 2021Thanks Hart! Much appreciated. Happy New Year to you as well.