I was sifting through a collection of old postcards from many years ago, particularly those from a cherished friend I’ve known for 45 years. Many of them handmade. This reflection made me ponder over friendships—both old and new, as well as those from the past. Each postcard was like a time capsule. Whether time has taken them away due to life’s circumstances or they have sadly passed on, the outcome is the same: they are no longer a part of my life, yet each one has left a significant mark during our time together. The little joys and sorrows we shared, the secrets we confided in one another, and the milestones we celebrated still resonate within me. Reminders of them linger on, intertwined with the fabric of my personal history, and a few of the postcards I moved stirred up memories of friends I had long forgotten…life.

I often reflect on the individuals I’ve encountered in this blogging community. Many have journeyed alongside me throughout my 14 years of blogging. I’ve come to know fragments of their life narratives, sharing in both their joys and sorrows. I empathize with some and find myself moved by others, grasping their highs and lows. Numerous stories have sparked inspiration in me. As a photographer, the images I’ve seen have enriched my photography. I’ve learned about life on other continents, seen places I’ve never visited, and listed them on my bucket list. The artistic influences I’ve gained are invaluable. I consider you all friends, even those I haven’t met in person. Some of you feel like close companions, while others remain acquaintances with whom I exchange occasional greetings.
Wishing everyone a joyful New Year!


May 2026 be good to you as you create more great memories.
Darlene, as to you too 🥂❤️
Happy New Year, Ritva! 🥂🍾
Andre, the same to you 🥂🎈🎈
😊
What beautiful memories. Happy New Year Ritva!
Beth, same to you 💙
Happy New Year! I really enjoy your art posts.
Thanks so much, all the best to you too
Happy New Year Ritva! Postcards and pictures bring back cherished memories.
Yes they do ♥️ and same to you Anne
😍
To a 2026 full of creativity and friendship!
Absolutely Sofia ♥️
Happy new year, Ritva! 🎉
🥂♥️Agata
A very happy new year to you too Ritva 🥂
Cheers Sarah🥂♥️
Interesting reflections on relationships over time Ritva. I love that you’ve kept postcards from the years. Happy New Year!
Same to you Brad, thanks 🥂
May 2026 be rich in love.
Thanks 😀
Happy New Year, Ritva! 🎉😸
Thank you 😍
It’s been good watching your photographic journey this year, Ritva. Wishing you health and happiness in 2026 xx
Thank you Jo, same to you.
Happy New Year’s Eve!
Egídio, hope you had a good one.
They are lovely vintage postcards Ritva 😀 All with a story and personal meaning.
Happy New Year 🎉
Ne ovat ihania vintage-postikortteja, Ritva 😀 Kaikilla on tarina ja henkilökohtainen merkitys
Onnellista uutta vuotta 🎉
not all vintage, she still sends them frequently 😀 Toivon sinulle ennen kaikkea onnellista ja rauhallista uutta vuotta. Olkoon se parempi kuin edellinen.
Thank you Ritva 😀 Your year ahead has to be better.
I am expecting AirBnB guests tonight, a Finnish couple who live in Helsinki
How lovely, say hi from me 😀
Oh post cards, one may say a simpler time! Happy New Year!
Pamela, this friend of mine sends them frequently. But yes, in a way they were that
Beautiful collection of postcards. Happy New Year! 🎉
Thank, you, same to yourself