It has truly become the 'new normal.' COVID-19 is now part of daily life, and we wonder how long it will last. While many have faced its harsh realities firsthand, our family has been fortunate to avoid major setbacks. To hold onto the positives, I created a photo book featuring the highlights of our corona year so far.
When Smartphoto invited me to document our experiences in a photo book, I jumped at the idea. I snap countless photos but rarely compile them into albums. This unprecedented year deserved preservation—for us now and our children later.
Table of contents
We've had our share of lockdowns, with kids home from school for months and no visits to grandma. Even now, Lotte's home with a cold, but my work-from-home setup makes it seamless. In many ways, 2020 has opened new opportunities amid the challenges.
Far from a 'do-nothing' year, we've stayed active—in the home, garden, and beyond. We skipped friends' weekends and a family barbecue, but vacations aligned with safer travel windows. Our winter sports trip predated the peak alerts.
I reviewed our adventures to curate this photo book, proving 2020 held plenty of joy.
We kicked off with skiing in Austria, though Lotte injured herself pre-trip and suffered severe nosebleeds (haemolacria, thankfully benign after checks). Frank and Luc hit the slopes while I cared for her.
Summer took us back to Austria at Landal Bad Kleinkirchheim. Minimal masks needed—only on lifts and German gas stops. We hiked, savored nature, dined well, and bonded as a family.
This epic overhaul disrupted months but transformed our space. It belongs in our corona year album as a testament to creativity and hard work—now a daily delight.
A milestone: Luc aced his VMBO sans traditional exams, gala, or party. We celebrated modestly but proudly.
Beyond vacations, we enjoyed safe outings: a Starboard Boats canal cruise in Amsterdam, Renzy electric car GPS tour, and immersive fun at Wondr Experience. Paleis 't Loo worked well too—spacious outdoors. Album pages capture the magic.
Lotte and Frank motored ahead; Luc and I followed. Beach walks, ferry to Vlissingen (masks required), fresh air, and great meals made it unforgettable.
I rarely make albums, but this project overwhelmed me with gratitude. The delivered hardcover photo book exceeded expectations—vibrant, evocative, kid-approved (even photo-shy Luc!).
Smartphoto's concept nailed it. 2020's ups and downs shine through; our cupboard now holds the proof.
Photo selection was the real work; design was intuitive. This gem inspires me to digitize 15 years of memories—for today and tomorrow's nostalgia.
