A Look Back at 2020

Unprecedented. 
Historic.
Dangerous.
Akin to wartime.

There are so many words that have been used to describe this momentous year that we've just lived through. And yes, it's been incredibly tough. But we're also here to tell the tale of 2020, a year like no other. In a year where I performed at just 13% of the weddings I was booked at, it would be easy to cast the last twelve months off as a waste. But looking back through my diary and photos, there have been some great moments. Here's a few highs and lows from the last 12 months:

➡ Brexit finally happened and got out of the news for a few months!
➡We had Christmas Day with the ones we love <3
➡ My niece is properly talking and giving so much joy!
➡ Oli started a new job which he loves and which has made such a difference to his work/life balance, and to us at home.
➡ Covid Classics - let's not forget those 100 days that you tuned in to hear little old me play some harp music and have a chat to you!
➡ My father's birthday weekend when we got together as a family for a BBQ and just had the most wonderful day
➡ I started HF Marketing Solutions and became an Usborne Organiser with Rutland Reading Cave
➡ I left my job at Brooke Priory School after 3 very happy years
➡ I finally had a long running medical issue diagnosed and treated!
➡ I had a dress named after me by Hannah Sophia England!
➡ I played at 5 weddings! Definitely not as many as planned but each and every one was a joy and will be treasured memories as those that were able to go ahead in 2020! Love wins! <3
➡ I had some wonderful days out at National Trust places with my godmother
➡ I have switched anti depressants to help me better manage my mental health and also, these ones don't make me gain weight like a hippo!
➡ I am finally making progress with my mental health recovery and I can't tell you how much lighter that makes me feel.
➡ There have been many days when I've been scared to leave the house and weeks where I have only gone out once or twice.
➡ I have felt massive frustration at those I see who are not following the guidance as requested to keep us all safe.
➡ We had 3 lovely staycations in Yorkshire (twice) and Cornwall.
➡ Nothing to do with me obviously but we have a vaccine!!!

This year has been tumultuous, unexpected, impossibly difficult at times but also full of pockets of joy.

I have learnt the importance and the depth of my support network so I want to thank you all!

Those who have kept their wedding bookings and postponed to next year, they will be epic when they happen!
Those who have watched Covid Classics and sent messages, I love you all <3
Those of you who have married this year, I will remember your weddings with such fondness and love
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Those of you who have lifted me in those many dark moments this year: my friends, my family and Oli of course. I promise to be a better friend next year, I know I haven't always been as present for you as I could have been and for that I am sorry.

My aims for next year are to be grateful for everything I have and to always look for the light because it's always there, even if it's just a flicker.

Thank you and all my love to you all for a happy and healthy 2021
Harriet xx
 
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