∞ What will it look like when you emerge from the current pandemic?
∞ How will you rise from the challenges faced?
∞ When restrictions are lifted, what is one of the first things you will do?
I asked these questions to nearby friends. I encouraged them to have fun with their answers…and to be ready to be photographed. Here were their replies!
Brenda:
“Get out of my studio and paint with others.” LOVE the self-portrait!
Marianne:
“Sisters’ Weekend in Nova Scotia, here I come!”
Kathy and Skye:
“Mahjong, anyone?”
Louise:
“Hit the local curling rink…if I can remember my moves.”
Glory:
“Perform live with my band!”
Deb:
“Sun, sand, water, warmth, travel – BARBADOS!”
Richard:
“Itchy feet must travel!”
Us:
“Don’t forget your travel partner!” My apologies for the reverse images on the travel books and tee-shirt — selfie mode!
All photos above were taken as part of an online photography course that I recently took with Debbie Flynn photography. Stuck in a rut with your smartphone photos? I highly recommend checking out one of Debbie’s programs.
What will it look like when we are released from lockdown and can all travel again? Perhaps, this 2008 Mastercard commercial says it best!
Donna:
Emerging from the long, dark tunnel of grey!
As the #SundayStills theme ‘Emerging’ has been rescheduled to April 11, Terri (Sunday Stills Mastermind) and I have agreed to use this post as a ‘Coming Attraction.’
Marsha Ingrao is facilitating #SundayStills this week with the cool theme: ‘Respect Your Cat.’ Why not give Marsha a visit? I look forward to seeing you there.
Where will you go when restrictions are lifted, and we can all travel again?
Prior to retirement, I lived and worked in Beijing China for fourteen years (Middle School Principal/Deputy Director at The Western Academy of Beijing). Leaving international life behind, my husband and I retired to Vancouver Island in June 2015. To document both this transition and our new adventures, ‘Retirement Reflections’ was born. I hope that you enjoy reading these reflections, and will be willing to share your own.
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113 thoughts on “Emerge…From Lockdown”
Oh I just LOVE your take on this prompt Donna. Your emerge photos are priceless and so very clever!! The self portrait is a crackup and the one with the little dog nearly emerging :). They all speak volumes without the need for words and your creative take on coming out of a long grey tunnel is just perfect. High fives all round, just fabulous!!!
These pics are just beyond fabulous Donna – I showed them to Ross (and introduced him to you and the Unknown Diver) He was very glad to meet you both. The colours and different outfits were so much fun and I really liked your little pink and grey effort at the end. Excellent work and you definitely passed your photography class with an A+
Hi, Leanne – Thank you for introducing us to Ross. You know that I always give Richard a BRIEF update after our calls, so Richard already feels that he knows everyone personally.
And thank you so much for the A+! You know how I feel about gold 🌟 stars! 😀
I love it. My first visit will be to the hairdressers. I don’t rock white shoulder length hair. I also need to see my grandchildren and give them a hug. The guide book to Tibet looked good as well. We are just hopping that the road map out of lockdown goes to plan.
Hi, Anne – I am also hoping that the roadway out of lockdown goes smoothly, without unexpected delays. Everest and Tibet are high on Richard’s bucket 🪣 list. Fingers crossed!
Wishing that we all get to hug 🤗 our grandchildren soon!
Hi, Antoinette – The beach, visiting and hugging all sound great! We have no set date for Everest but it is in the #1 position on Richard’s travel list. 🪣
You continue to surprise me with you creative and entertaining posts each week, Donna. This was fantastic! I’m bookmarking the photography class link. Thanks for sharing!
Hi, Jill – For most years of my life, my camera was simply to record and share memories. I am now having great fun exploring the endless (and very cool) things that a smartphone camera can do. Seriously, who knew? Thank you for your very kind words!
Hi Donna – I loved these pictures. You have a great group of lively neighbors, just waiting to break out of the pandemic restrictions! Thanks for sharing these – Barb
Hi, Barbara – I do have a wonderful group of friends and neighbours. I am grateful for them every single day. And yes, we are all ready and pumped up to emerge as soon as possible! 😀
I love this post! You must have had a really fun time photographing your friends! Where will I go? We already crossed one state line and went to Florida. Next up, a road trip from Georgia to Virginia. After that, who knows!
Thanks so much! Florida, Georgia, Virginia all sound great. I also love your closing line about leaving your adventures wide open. That is our plan as well! 😀
Thanks so much, Ann. It was fun using the same theme for my photography course and for (and advanced edition of) #SundayStills. It was also great to focus on the light at the end of the tunnel (although Richard said that it made him want to travel TODAY)! 😀
Thanks, Barb – It is an official hiking shirt that I thought that I would love, but never seem to wear when hiking. It was perfect for the photos though! 😀
Thanks so much, Barb – Although it is an official (breathable) hiking shirt – it would take up way too much space in my Camino backpack. It is also too heavy for spring/summer hiking and too light for fall/winter hiking (even when layered). It just may have found its use as a “photo op” shirt! 😀
Hi Donna – wonderful range of ‘Emerging pics’ – I suspect VI is somewhat better placed than many … I doubt I’ll do much … but meet up with friends for group meetings as before, also the local art gallery, and when I feel ok with going – I’ll get up to London and start to visit museums etc … I’ll get over and see my one brother and his wife’s family … then I’d love to get to Cambridge (Museum) – and meet up with friends up there for a time away. Who knows … but I’m not agitating …
However I’d join any of you or your friends with their get togethers … just enjoy, which is all we can really do for now – enjoy! Cheers Hilary
Hi, Hilary – Art galleries, museums and exhibitions are also high on my list. In fact, some of my friends (featured in the above photos) and I are itching to get to the Van Gogh Immersive Exhibit in Vancouver this summer. Fingers crossed that we each have our vaccines by then!
Oh gosh – how wonderful … that will so excellent – and I hope you’ll be able to get over to see that. Something wonderful to look forward to … such fun to think about … fantastic to know about … thanks for letting us know … Hilary
Donna, this post brought tears to my eyes because of how you shared your incredible creativity and infused such hope into our lives. What a cool project this was and i dearly love the excitement shared in each image as we all emerge from the pandemic. I think this hit me emotionally because we’ve “emerged” finally into our new home and neighborhood. Today is Palm Sunday and we’re off soon to attend our new church! An excellent example of the theme and gauntlet thrown down! 👏
Hi, Terri – I’m delighted to read that you have emerged into your new home, your new community and your new church. Such an exciting time!
This was a fun photography project. You offered a great theme. I was also grateful that my friends all jumped in so enthusiastically. I look forward to reading all the other Emerge posts when they come online. Right now I am off to #SundayStills #RespectYourCat. See you there!:D
Being a homebody, I will stick pretty close to home. However, I am so looking forward to meeting friends at our local pub and listening to live music. Most of all, though, I am anxiously waiting to see my children. Eldest daughter has already made train reservations for an August visit. Woo-hoo! Finally, fun selection of pictures to illustrate your words.
Hi, Laurie – Friends, family, pubs….actual reservations, this all sounds wonderful to me!
Super exciting about your eldest daughter visiting in August. I look forward to reading that post!
Top of the list for me – a music festival,morning coffee with my cousin on a weekend sleepover, visiting friends on VI, hanging at Cluculz Lake where there are only 2 times (day time and night time). Donna, the exterior doors of our houses are the same color.
Hi, Mona – That’s cool about our front doors being the same colour. I am glad that VI is on your travel list. Once restrictions are all clear, I would love to meet you on VI. You always offer such incredible insight!
HI, Kate – I totally get this. I used to label myself as an “Extroverted Introvert”. Since the Pandemic, I have simply identified as an “Extrovert” (full stop). The past 13 months have used up every ounce of introvert that I had in me. The extrovert trapped inside just wants to get the heck out there and socialize!
I’m sure once a get (several) good doses of full-on socializing, the introverted side of me will emerge again. Until then, her more outgoing twin is clamouring for attention! 😀
Hey Donna! This is your best one yet! These photos are wonderful and reflect such joy and optimism. And the colors? Awesome! Thank you for taking this on and sharing it with us all! —Kathy
Thanks so much, Kathy. I had to click on your name to see which Kathy this was. For some reason, your comment came through as a ‘first-time comment’ that I had to approve. Very strange!
I greatly appreciate you dropping by and sharing these kind words.
Ahhhh, Rome. We were there in 2019. Other than Mexico, it was our last big trip. We’ve been riding off those memories for the last full year. (Ironically, when I just looked up, the tv screen in our living room showed a picture of Rome. Rome is definitely calling!) 😀
The last time I was near Rome, we were on a cruise ship docked in Civitavecchia. They were predicting 34C that day, and we decided it was too hot to go into Rome. Idiots! If I’d known we were going to be stranded at home for years…Ugh! Still kicking myself 🙂
Hi, Vero – That’s a great team to be on! Deb (aka blogger, ‘The Widow Badass’) has a wonderful idea — sand, sun, beach, warm, travel and colour, colour, colour! Thanks so much for joining in. I hope that all is well there.
Love this, Donna! So cool to see what others are wanting to get back to. And the commercial is hilarious. I am amazed at the stuff you are doing with your photos 😍…we have to talk, girl 😉.
About that commercial, I know, right? It perfectly fits my vision of what “on your mark, get so, go….unlockdown” would look like.
I am happy to talk smartphone photography (or anything else for that matter) with you at any time. Just say the word! 😀
Thanks, Sandy – I wholeheartedly agree. I do have very fun friends — and their personalities come shining right through in these photos. I have other fun friends who couldn’t make this first round — I will definitely go after them for my next photo project!
I’ve been thinking about this question a lot lately. I know I’ve changed during this last year. I’m more relaxed and intentional now. Hawaii would be a nice place to visit. Aloha!
Hi, Tracey – Thank you so much for stopping by. When restrictions are lifted and you find yourself in Vancouver or Vancouver Island, please drop me a line. I’d love to meet up for coffee — or drinks of your choice!
Another creative post, Donna! I enjoyed all the shots telling the story. Deb is so funny. She always makes me smile as well. My favorite photo is the one of you at the bottom. I love what you did with the colors and the description! Happy emerging!!
Hi, Liesbet – Deb (aka The Widow Badass) totally cracked me up when she emerged from her apartment with all of those colours, and all of that gear. Each and every one of my friends took their role in this project much more creatively than I could have ever hoped for. Having fun-loving, creative, spontaneous friends is a win-win-win!
Donna,
Such a fun way and creative way to introduce your friends to us. Your camera classes once again prove that, in retirement, the learning never stops. We get second vaccine this week and leave two weeks later for the northwest. We might not make it to VI, but maybe we can see it in the distance. Have a great week! Joe
Hi, Joe – I am so sorry to hear that you may not make it to VI on this trip. Our border closures have recently been extended until the end of April…and who knows from there. If they do not open, please wave to us from across the way. I look forward to following the posts of your upcoming travel adventures!
And – thank you for your kind and thoughtful words. I greatly appreciate them.! 😀
Thanks so much, Peta and Ben – The two of you are my ‘adventure gurus.’ I look forward to any adventures that I can have, as soon as I can have them. (Patience has never been my strong suit 😀 )!
Hi, Janet – I definitely would have guessed ‘concerts’ for you. Too bad you don’t leave nearby. It would have been fun coming up with a photo for that!
I hope that all is well for you!
Hi, Natalie – Thanks for your kind comment. I let Richard choose how he wanted our shots set up. I think that he did an awesome job — and it is very true to what’s on the top of our bucket lists! 😀
You had briefly mentioned how you were preparing this post, Donna. It turned out even better than I had envisioned. Many vibrant colours. I can feel the joy coming from the people and the pages. Joy emerging….🙂Nice how you also shared a photo of you and Richard. Everything about this post made me smile.xx❤️
Thanks, Erica – It was a very fun post to put together. My next post will be out the first Wednesday of April — the maiden voyage of “What’s On Your Plate”. Blogging offers no end to creative challenges. 😀 See you soon!
Such creative friends you have! I’ve already begun to sneak out – and will be sharing photos of a trip to Seattle soon. My photos are not so FUN as yours…
Love, Love, Love this Donna! You are my creative inspiration! Mike and I are with you and Richard our feet are so, so itchy!!! You have such wonderful friends who show that women after 50 are living well, have fabulous senses of humour and a zest for living!
This post is SO MUCH FUN! I smiled happily with each photo, each person’s “take” on what they’ll do when not “locked down.” Wheeeee, we are such a creative fun group, aren’t we? Notice how there’s not one 20 or 30 or even 40 something here. We are not “young” in age but so young in spirit! My plans? My guy and I are testing the waters by driving down to my brother and sis-in-law”s place 8 hours from here in April for a long weekend, since all of us are vaccinated. Hopefully we’ll walk around Washington, D.C., masked. And the four of us will sit in their hot tub on their large deck as in days past, a marguerite in hand, celebrating being together.
Family, Hot Tub, Deck, Marguerite…that all sounds heavenly!
I will not likely receive my first vaccine until this May. Until then, my mind will be planning and dreaming/scheming my escape!
Well, Donna, I think lockdown has been a very creative time for you. This post is priceless, and I think one of your best yet. I must admit I had a wide grin viewing the photos. Thanks for making me laugh in a good way. 🙂
Hi, Suzanne – I am delighted to help bring a smile to your face.
This project was a lot of fun. I also learned a great deal about my friends and just how creative they can be. 😀
Richard loved receiving your top award in these photographs. I let Skye know that she takes honourable mention. 😀
Thanks so much for dropping by. I greatly appreciate it.
Even though I had a bit of a “sneak preview” of this post, it really made me laugh out loud. You and your friends are so creative! I love how you are taking each of Terri’s prompts and putting your own personal spin on each one. I can tell that you are having a lot of fun with these. Fingers crossed that my 2021 travel plans will include a trip to your beautiful island!
Hi, Janis – Thank you so much for these very kind words. Our COVID-related news of late has not been great (it took a major downturn yesterday). I remain hopeful that better days are ahead this summer!
Donna, very clever post. Your friends look like my kind of people – fun-loving and energetic! Good for you for taking an on-line photography class. I will have to give it a look. You obviously learned a few tricks.
Hi, Suzanne – Thank you for your kind feedback. The online photography course was incredibly helpful. Most of all it encouraged me not to be afraid to explore the inner workings of my camera phone. Seriously, who knew all of these cool features were sitting dormant just waiting to be discovered?! 😀
What a clever, enthusiastic bunch looking forward to emerging. Hope everyone is safely vaccinated and soon out doing everything they’ve dreamed of and longed to do. We have begun to emerge here. Church last weekend. Been eating out very selectively for about a month. Took a trip to Disney. But I think I will feel like we have really emerged when we can walk about without a mask. Not sure I am ready yet. But maybe someday?
Hi, Leslie – I am delighted that you are safely vaccinated and beginning to expand your world. It is very well-deserved and very inspiring. Our vaccine rollout in Canada is behind yours. I am not expected to get my first vaccine until May (and my second dose in September). My parents recently got their first doses and my husband is scheduled for mid-April. The more people around me become vaccinated, the more hopeful I become. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter and brighter!
A lovely collection of photos and responses, folks eager to embrace being outdoors and activities again. It sounds like you have developed some great skills that you can use for blogging too! (excuse the pun!) Lol. It is so good you are looking forward not back.
How fun is this! Your friends are very good sports with creative minds I must say. Each photo captures their passion and enthusiasm. My photo would include a lot of hugging. I’m afraid strangers may need to fend me off as my pent up hugging shall burst forth. Well I suppose it may take some time before hugging any and all is wise. Still with a the first dose of vaccine in my arm, I am now feeling hopeful for hugging days ahead.
you really are a very creative person. I love how you took the emerge word and used it. I am not sharing your optimism about getting out of this situation but still it’s good to dream!
I got mine last week and my husband got his today but…. they may or may not work against the variants. We are all still going to have to hold tight for a while longer,sadly.
This is adorable, Donna. Your neighbors are such good sports. What amazing personalities, and you captured them all. I love the post, and thanks for sharing it on Emerging today. I feel honored that Terri trusted me with her Sunday Stills. I thank you for being such a promoter of Sunday Stills and my guest hosting, Donna. It’s been a lot of fun. 🙂
Hi, Marsha – Thank you so much for dropping by. And thank you for Guest Hosting at #SundayStills for these past three weeks. You’ve done an awesome job! 😀
Such great images! As for me, I’m greatly looking forward to visiting with family and friends, especially our kids who aren’t on the Island, AND international travel once again. However, I think that second one isn’t going to happen anytime soon.
Retirement Reflections 
Oh I just LOVE your take on this prompt Donna. Your emerge photos are priceless and so very clever!! The self portrait is a crackup and the one with the little dog nearly emerging :). They all speak volumes without the need for words and your creative take on coming out of a long grey tunnel is just perfect. High fives all round, just fabulous!!!
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Hi, Debbie – Thank you for your uplifting comment and the high fives. I greatly appreciate your kind words. See you Tuesday with our thinking caps on!
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These pics are just beyond fabulous Donna – I showed them to Ross (and introduced him to you and the Unknown Diver) He was very glad to meet you both. The colours and different outfits were so much fun and I really liked your little pink and grey effort at the end. Excellent work and you definitely passed your photography class with an A+
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Hi, Leanne – Thank you for introducing us to Ross. You know that I always give Richard a BRIEF update after our calls, so Richard already feels that he knows everyone personally.
And thank you so much for the A+! You know how I feel about gold 🌟 stars! 😀
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I love it. My first visit will be to the hairdressers. I don’t rock white shoulder length hair. I also need to see my grandchildren and give them a hug. The guide book to Tibet looked good as well. We are just hopping that the road map out of lockdown goes to plan.
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Hi, Anne – I am also hoping that the roadway out of lockdown goes smoothly, without unexpected delays. Everest and Tibet are high on Richard’s bucket 🪣 list. Fingers crossed!
Wishing that we all get to hug 🤗 our grandchildren soon!
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What a fun and uplifting post! MtEverest! Wow! When? I’m planning on seeing peeps at the beach, visiting and hugging
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Hi, Antoinette – The beach, visiting and hugging all sound great! We have no set date for Everest but it is in the #1 position on Richard’s travel list. 🪣
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You continue to surprise me with you creative and entertaining posts each week, Donna. This was fantastic! I’m bookmarking the photography class link. Thanks for sharing!
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Hi, Jill – For most years of my life, my camera was simply to record and share memories. I am now having great fun exploring the endless (and very cool) things that a smartphone camera can do. Seriously, who knew? Thank you for your very kind words!
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Hi Donna – I loved these pictures. You have a great group of lively neighbors, just waiting to break out of the pandemic restrictions! Thanks for sharing these – Barb
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Hi, Barbara – I do have a wonderful group of friends and neighbours. I am grateful for them every single day. And yes, we are all ready and pumped up to emerge as soon as possible! 😀
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I love this post! You must have had a really fun time photographing your friends! Where will I go? We already crossed one state line and went to Florida. Next up, a road trip from Georgia to Virginia. After that, who knows!
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Thanks so much! Florida, Georgia, Virginia all sound great. I also love your closing line about leaving your adventures wide open. That is our plan as well! 😀
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Love your pink blouse! 🙂
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Best post yet! Cool to integrate everything! Photo course, blogging, covid and the sense of humour of your subjects.
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Thanks so much, Ann. It was fun using the same theme for my photography course and for (and advanced edition of) #SundayStills. It was also great to focus on the light at the end of the tunnel (although Richard said that it made him want to travel TODAY)! 😀
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I agree 🙂
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Thanks, Barb – It is an official hiking shirt that I thought that I would love, but never seem to wear when hiking. It was perfect for the photos though! 😀
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Oh it’s super nice and great effect with the photo 🙂
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Thanks so much, Barb – Although it is an official (breathable) hiking shirt – it would take up way too much space in my Camino backpack. It is also too heavy for spring/summer hiking and too light for fall/winter hiking (even when layered). It just may have found its use as a “photo op” shirt! 😀
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Hi Donna – wonderful range of ‘Emerging pics’ – I suspect VI is somewhat better placed than many … I doubt I’ll do much … but meet up with friends for group meetings as before, also the local art gallery, and when I feel ok with going – I’ll get up to London and start to visit museums etc … I’ll get over and see my one brother and his wife’s family … then I’d love to get to Cambridge (Museum) – and meet up with friends up there for a time away. Who knows … but I’m not agitating …
However I’d join any of you or your friends with their get togethers … just enjoy, which is all we can really do for now – enjoy! Cheers Hilary
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Hi, Hilary – Art galleries, museums and exhibitions are also high on my list. In fact, some of my friends (featured in the above photos) and I are itching to get to the Van Gogh Immersive Exhibit in Vancouver this summer. Fingers crossed that we each have our vaccines by then!
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Oh gosh – how wonderful … that will so excellent – and I hope you’ll be able to get over to see that. Something wonderful to look forward to … such fun to think about … fantastic to know about … thanks for letting us know … Hilary
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Donna, this post brought tears to my eyes because of how you shared your incredible creativity and infused such hope into our lives. What a cool project this was and i dearly love the excitement shared in each image as we all emerge from the pandemic. I think this hit me emotionally because we’ve “emerged” finally into our new home and neighborhood. Today is Palm Sunday and we’re off soon to attend our new church! An excellent example of the theme and gauntlet thrown down! 👏
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Hi, Terri – I’m delighted to read that you have emerged into your new home, your new community and your new church. Such an exciting time!
This was a fun photography project. You offered a great theme. I was also grateful that my friends all jumped in so enthusiastically. I look forward to reading all the other Emerge posts when they come online. Right now I am off to #SundayStills #RespectYourCat. See you there!:D
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Being a homebody, I will stick pretty close to home. However, I am so looking forward to meeting friends at our local pub and listening to live music. Most of all, though, I am anxiously waiting to see my children. Eldest daughter has already made train reservations for an August visit. Woo-hoo! Finally, fun selection of pictures to illustrate your words.
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Hi, Laurie – Friends, family, pubs….actual reservations, this all sounds wonderful to me!
Super exciting about your eldest daughter visiting in August. I look forward to reading that post!
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Can’t wait!
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Top of the list for me – a music festival,morning coffee with my cousin on a weekend sleepover, visiting friends on VI, hanging at Cluculz Lake where there are only 2 times (day time and night time). Donna, the exterior doors of our houses are the same color.
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Hi, Mona – That’s cool about our front doors being the same colour. I am glad that VI is on your travel list. Once restrictions are all clear, I would love to meet you on VI. You always offer such incredible insight!
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I’m going to eat out with friends and play games with friends and…..with friends. I’m not even a people person and I’m missing them!
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HI, Kate – I totally get this. I used to label myself as an “Extroverted Introvert”. Since the Pandemic, I have simply identified as an “Extrovert” (full stop). The past 13 months have used up every ounce of introvert that I had in me. The extrovert trapped inside just wants to get the heck out there and socialize!
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Not ready to drop the introvert piece yet but I know what you mean!
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I’m sure once a get (several) good doses of full-on socializing, the introverted side of me will emerge again. Until then, her more outgoing twin is clamouring for attention! 😀
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Hey Donna! This is your best one yet! These photos are wonderful and reflect such joy and optimism. And the colors? Awesome! Thank you for taking this on and sharing it with us all! —Kathy
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Thanks so much, Kathy. I had to click on your name to see which Kathy this was. For some reason, your comment came through as a ‘first-time comment’ that I had to approve. Very strange!
I greatly appreciate you dropping by and sharing these kind words.
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LOL! Nice video, and great pictures. I’m with Richard, or Richard’s T-shirt. Rome is definitely calling 🙂
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Ahhhh, Rome. We were there in 2019. Other than Mexico, it was our last big trip. We’ve been riding off those memories for the last full year. (Ironically, when I just looked up, the tv screen in our living room showed a picture of Rome. Rome is definitely calling!) 😀
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The last time I was near Rome, we were on a cruise ship docked in Civitavecchia. They were predicting 34C that day, and we decided it was too hot to go into Rome. Idiots! If I’d known we were going to be stranded at home for years…Ugh! Still kicking myself 🙂
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i’m on Team Deb for this lovely selection!!!!!
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Hi, Vero – That’s a great team to be on! Deb (aka blogger, ‘The Widow Badass’) has a wonderful idea — sand, sun, beach, warm, travel and colour, colour, colour! Thanks so much for joining in. I hope that all is well there.
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Colour is what I need right now! Take care of you all girls. Love from France
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Love this, Donna! So cool to see what others are wanting to get back to. And the commercial is hilarious. I am amazed at the stuff you are doing with your photos 😍…we have to talk, girl 😉.
Deb
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About that commercial, I know, right? It perfectly fits my vision of what “on your mark, get so, go….unlockdown” would look like.
I am happy to talk smartphone photography (or anything else for that matter) with you at any time. Just say the word! 😀
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You have a fun set of friends Donna! Their personalities all come thru in these photos. Kudos to you for capturing them.
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Thanks, Sandy – I wholeheartedly agree. I do have very fun friends — and their personalities come shining right through in these photos. I have other fun friends who couldn’t make this first round — I will definitely go after them for my next photo project!
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I’ve been thinking about this question a lot lately. I know I’ve changed during this last year. I’m more relaxed and intentional now. Hawaii would be a nice place to visit. Aloha!
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Hi, Ally – Yes to Hawaii – that sounds wonderful too.
My travel list is very, very long – and getting longer by the moment.
Aloha right back to you! 😀
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Travel to Vancouver, BC and Washington State to visit family! It’s been too long! Your photos are brilliant, so much fun and color.
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Hi, Tracey – Thank you so much for stopping by. When restrictions are lifted and you find yourself in Vancouver or Vancouver Island, please drop me a line. I’d love to meet up for coffee — or drinks of your choice!
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I’ll do it!!
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Another creative post, Donna! I enjoyed all the shots telling the story. Deb is so funny. She always makes me smile as well. My favorite photo is the one of you at the bottom. I love what you did with the colors and the description! Happy emerging!!
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Hi, Liesbet – Deb (aka The Widow Badass) totally cracked me up when she emerged from her apartment with all of those colours, and all of that gear. Each and every one of my friends took their role in this project much more creatively than I could have ever hoped for. Having fun-loving, creative, spontaneous friends is a win-win-win!
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Donna,
Such a fun way and creative way to introduce your friends to us. Your camera classes once again prove that, in retirement, the learning never stops. We get second vaccine this week and leave two weeks later for the northwest. We might not make it to VI, but maybe we can see it in the distance. Have a great week! Joe
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Hi, Joe – I am so sorry to hear that you may not make it to VI on this trip. Our border closures have recently been extended until the end of April…and who knows from there. If they do not open, please wave to us from across the way. I look forward to following the posts of your upcoming travel adventures!
And – thank you for your kind and thoughtful words. I greatly appreciate them.! 😀
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Donna, love this post! Both the colors throughout, the personalities and the one photo plus one statement of intent. So fun. Well done.
Peta & Ben
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Thanks so much, Peta and Ben – The two of you are my ‘adventure gurus.’ I look forward to any adventures that I can have, as soon as I can have them. (Patience has never been my strong suit 😀 )!
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Love, love, love. What great colors and such fun friends you have. I am looking forward to concerts the most.
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Hi, Janet – I definitely would have guessed ‘concerts’ for you. Too bad you don’t leave nearby. It would have been fun coming up with a photo for that!
I hope that all is well for you!
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These are wonderful! Happy emerging everybody!
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Thanks, Dawn – And a very happy emerging to you too!
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This is so creative and way too much fun – love it to pieces.
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Thanks, Jo. This piece truly was a blast to put together. Aren’t you grateful that we don’t live next door to each other? 😀
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I’d LOVE to live next door to you 🙂
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You know that I would instantly volunteer to be a “taste tester” of your delicious baking and other culinary delights! 😀
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Donna, Look at all the smiles in your photos. I love how ready you and Richard look with your trekking outfits and accessories.
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Hi, Natalie – Thanks for your kind comment. I let Richard choose how he wanted our shots set up. I think that he did an awesome job — and it is very true to what’s on the top of our bucket lists! 😀
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I LOVE your emerge friends’ photos! You have a varied, energetic group here! lol
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Thanks, Jacquie – They are truly a varied and energetic group. I was delighted how much they immersed with ’emerge’ and made it their own. 😀
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You had briefly mentioned how you were preparing this post, Donna. It turned out even better than I had envisioned. Many vibrant colours. I can feel the joy coming from the people and the pages. Joy emerging….🙂Nice how you also shared a photo of you and Richard. Everything about this post made me smile.xx❤️
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Thanks, Erica – It was a very fun post to put together. My next post will be out the first Wednesday of April — the maiden voyage of “What’s On Your Plate”. Blogging offers no end to creative challenges. 😀 See you soon!
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I agree, Erica/Erika. What a fun post.
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Such creative friends you have! I’ve already begun to sneak out – and will be sharing photos of a trip to Seattle soon. My photos are not so FUN as yours…
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A trip to Seattle sounds fabulous. So close yet still so far!
I look forward to seeing those photos!
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Love, Love, Love this Donna! You are my creative inspiration! Mike and I are with you and Richard our feet are so, so itchy!!! You have such wonderful friends who show that women after 50 are living well, have fabulous senses of humour and a zest for living!
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Thanks so much, Sue. With friends like you and them, how can I go wrong? Such great models! See you Tuesday!!
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This post is SO MUCH FUN! I smiled happily with each photo, each person’s “take” on what they’ll do when not “locked down.” Wheeeee, we are such a creative fun group, aren’t we? Notice how there’s not one 20 or 30 or even 40 something here. We are not “young” in age but so young in spirit! My plans? My guy and I are testing the waters by driving down to my brother and sis-in-law”s place 8 hours from here in April for a long weekend, since all of us are vaccinated. Hopefully we’ll walk around Washington, D.C., masked. And the four of us will sit in their hot tub on their large deck as in days past, a marguerite in hand, celebrating being together.
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Family, Hot Tub, Deck, Marguerite…that all sounds heavenly!
I will not likely receive my first vaccine until this May. Until then, my mind will be planning and dreaming/scheming my escape!
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So many butterflies emerging from the chrysalis!
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Absolutely! And with the same (ultra) bright colours! 😀
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Well, Donna, I think lockdown has been a very creative time for you. This post is priceless, and I think one of your best yet. I must admit I had a wide grin viewing the photos. Thanks for making me laugh in a good way. 🙂
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Hi, Suzanne – I am delighted to help bring a smile to your face.
This project was a lot of fun. I also learned a great deal about my friends and just how creative they can be. 😀
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What a novel idea. First award goes to Richard (a really great photo). Honorable mention goes to Skye! – Marty
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Richard loved receiving your top award in these photographs. I let Skye know that she takes honourable mention. 😀
Thanks so much for dropping by. I greatly appreciate it.
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Even though I had a bit of a “sneak preview” of this post, it really made me laugh out loud. You and your friends are so creative! I love how you are taking each of Terri’s prompts and putting your own personal spin on each one. I can tell that you are having a lot of fun with these. Fingers crossed that my 2021 travel plans will include a trip to your beautiful island!
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Hi, Janis – Thank you so much for these very kind words. Our COVID-related news of late has not been great (it took a major downturn yesterday). I remain hopeful that better days are ahead this summer!
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Love these pictures. So much fun, restrained excitement, and anticipation of what’s next!
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Absolutely, Jennifer! Anticipation is my favourite part of most journies! 😀
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Donna, very clever post. Your friends look like my kind of people – fun-loving and energetic! Good for you for taking an on-line photography class. I will have to give it a look. You obviously learned a few tricks.
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Hi, Suzanne – Thank you for your kind feedback. The online photography course was incredibly helpful. Most of all it encouraged me not to be afraid to explore the inner workings of my camera phone. Seriously, who knew all of these cool features were sitting dormant just waiting to be discovered?! 😀
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What a clever, enthusiastic bunch looking forward to emerging. Hope everyone is safely vaccinated and soon out doing everything they’ve dreamed of and longed to do. We have begun to emerge here. Church last weekend. Been eating out very selectively for about a month. Took a trip to Disney. But I think I will feel like we have really emerged when we can walk about without a mask. Not sure I am ready yet. But maybe someday?
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Hi, Leslie – I am delighted that you are safely vaccinated and beginning to expand your world. It is very well-deserved and very inspiring. Our vaccine rollout in Canada is behind yours. I am not expected to get my first vaccine until May (and my second dose in September). My parents recently got their first doses and my husband is scheduled for mid-April. The more people around me become vaccinated, the more hopeful I become. The light at the end of the tunnel is getting brighter and brighter!
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A lovely collection of photos and responses, folks eager to embrace being outdoors and activities again. It sounds like you have developed some great skills that you can use for blogging too! (excuse the pun!) Lol. It is so good you are looking forward not back.
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Hi, Amanda – I so agree. Keep our eye focussed forward is the way to go. I remain very optimistic about that light at the end of the tunnel!
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It has to arrive doesn’t it, at some point?
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Absoloutely!
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How fun is this! Your friends are very good sports with creative minds I must say. Each photo captures their passion and enthusiasm. My photo would include a lot of hugging. I’m afraid strangers may need to fend me off as my pent up hugging shall burst forth. Well I suppose it may take some time before hugging any and all is wise. Still with a the first dose of vaccine in my arm, I am now feeling hopeful for hugging days ahead.
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Hi, Sue – I am with you on pent up hugs. Strangers beware — both Sue and Donna will soon be on the loose! 😀
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Nothing will stop us! I have visions of people hiding behind trees at the sight of us. 🙂
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Your vision made me laugh out loud. I need to be careful where I read these comments! 😀
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you really are a very creative person. I love how you took the emerge word and used it. I am not sharing your optimism about getting out of this situation but still it’s good to dream!
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Hi, Bernie – I now have my vaccine appointment for this Wednesday. That alone added to my optimism. Baby steps!!
Thanks for your kind words!
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I got mine last week and my husband got his today but…. they may or may not work against the variants. We are all still going to have to hold tight for a while longer,sadly.
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Hi, Bernie – Since I was happy to take the first vaccine offered to me, I am signed up for the Astrazeneca. According to the Centre for Disease Research, that vaccine has proven to be 70% effective against the B117 variant. At this point I will take any protection that I can get! 😀 https://www.cidrap.umn.edu/news-perspective/2021/03/astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-70-effective-vs-b117-variant
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This is adorable, Donna. Your neighbors are such good sports. What amazing personalities, and you captured them all. I love the post, and thanks for sharing it on Emerging today. I feel honored that Terri trusted me with her Sunday Stills. I thank you for being such a promoter of Sunday Stills and my guest hosting, Donna. It’s been a lot of fun. 🙂
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Hi, Marsha – Thank you so much for dropping by. And thank you for Guest Hosting at #SundayStills for these past three weeks. You’ve done an awesome job! 😀
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Thanks, Donna. I enjoyed it. I love participating in it as I know you do. You are so supportive. That means a lot. 🙂
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My absolute pleasure! I LOVE #SundayStills and I am a big fan of both you and Terri!
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What a great idea for a response to this prompt! I know what my answer would have been, in a single word – travel!!
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Such great images! As for me, I’m greatly looking forward to visiting with family and friends, especially our kids who aren’t on the Island, AND international travel once again. However, I think that second one isn’t going to happen anytime soon.
Jude
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Ah, international travel! I’ve almost forgotten what that is. 😕 Hopefully soon!
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