A Year in Review: 2021
It’s hard to believe that 2021 is almost over. We all waited patiently for this year as 2020 threw us for a loop – and now, 2021 has come and gone. While some of life went back to normal, we still had to be careful through the year as we traveled, continued to work, and found our new stride. Every year around December, I sit down and start to think through what’s happened in the past year. It’s a nice chance to slow down and reflect on all of the good (and maybe less than good) things that have happened. This is always a beautiful moment for reflection and gratitude for me. Here’s a year in review for us…
This Winter
If I’m honest, the start of the year was a bit rough for my family. Our entire household got COVID-19. We spent two weeks in quarantine together at the start of the year. Definitely not the best way to start the year! But after recovering, I had the chance to get back to work.
In January I started my first “365 Project”! The idea of photographing every single day for an entire year was a bit daunting but I completely fell in love with this project. I learned so much especially to find inspiration every single day!
I also discovered and fell deeply in love with Lensbaby at this start of 2021. My new favorite lens are the Sweet 35 and Twirl 60! During this time, I also joined several Instagram loops which brought many new friends and lots of great inspiration!
This Spring
During the springtime, our household was officially vaccinated for COVID-19. Isn’t it crazy how many pandemic-related milestones there still are?! Anyway, it was great to get caught up! During the spring, our middle son also became an Eagle Scout. We celebrated his achievement at the Hale Reservation, which is where he actually completed his Eagle project – a pedestrian bridge! We are so proud of him. Professionally, I was certified as a child and family photographer by the NAPCP, which was super exciting!!
This Summer
Over the summer, we were able to safely return to Germany to visit our family and friends. During our trip, we had the chance to visit Cologne, Hannover, Frankfurt, Hildesheim, Marktheidenfeld, and Münster. It was truly a dream come true to be able to travel again. There were lots of laughs, good food, and smiles. I can’t even explain how wonderful it truly felt to be there again!! We’re so thankful we could make our trip to Germany happen this year.
This Fall
If you’ve been reading my blog, you know that Boston had a late fall this year. We had warm and green months in September and October. But around late October, I finally got the gorgeous fall colors I LOVE this time of year! My calendar was full with lots of returning clients, and plenty of new ones. I had a wonderful time seeing everyone and helping them update their family portraits this year. During the fall, I was also notified that one of my images was the recipient of the NAPCP International Image competition! It was amazing!
We were also able to celebrate our traditional Friendsgiving again at home this year! It was even more meaningful than normal since we couldn’t be together last year. With our families in Mexico and Germany, this little holiday celebration is so important to us. It was absolutely lovely being together again!
The End of the Year…
2021 has truly been a wonderful year in so many ways. We were able to see our friends and family again, travel, and host our loved ones. Professionally, I had the chance to chase some of my dreams – like certification and winning the competition award. And every time I photograph a session, I feel so lucky that this is my job.
Thank you to each and every one of you for making this a beautiful and wonderful year for me. It was so special to share it with all of you. I appreciate you taking the time to read through my year in review – and I hope that you have a chance to slow down and think through your year. Thank you for indulging me with this year in review! Here’s to an even better 2022!
about helena goessens photography
Helena Goessens is a maternity, newborn, and family photographer based in Dedham, MA. She loves to work with families and little ones in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. She lives for creativity and she loves to capture the genuine connections between family members and for her kid-friendly photography style. Helena Goessens offers sessions in the comfort of clients’ homes, outdoors, and on location for those special occasions. If you are looking for a family portrait photographer for your next family session, be sure to browse through her family portfolio and inquire for availability. Contact her at info@helenagoessens.com or call her at 617-584-9891. For more of her work, visit her website at helenagoessens.com.