Unfortunately…Fortunately: Castle Reflects on 2020
Have you ever read Fortunately, by Remy Charlip? It’s a story about a boy who overcomes obstacles—and a childhood favorite of our SVP Keri McIntosh. To this day, you’ll often hear her reference the story’s point of view—unfortunately…fortunately—when we’re about to face a challenge.
It can be inspiring to look for the positives, especially this time of year. The season of gratitude is upon us, so our team took some time out to reflect on our personal unfortunately…fortunately sentiments for 2020. Check out our video.

Alex

Unfortunately…Following graduation, I had to move home, forfeiting some independence.

Fortunately…I love spending time with my mom, and I have expense-free living.
Alicia

Unfortunately…My wedding was postponed.

Fortunately…I have more time to practice my dance moves!
Amanda

Unfortunately…So many restaurants are struggling.

Fortunately…I live in an area where I can support local restaurants by ordering takeout!
Andrea

Unfortunately…It may be a long winter ahead, causing uncertainty for our communities.

Fortunately…We adopted the most amazing quarantine puppy who will keep us warm by the fire all winter.
Callie

Unfortunately…One of my favorite things to do—travel—isn’t so easy these days.

Fortunately…I’ve found ways to get away safely with family and friends.
Danielle

Unfortunately…I have not had a meal inside a restaurant since March.

Fortunately…I have mastered a perfect medium rare.
Deb

Unfortunately…I chipped my front tooth during a pandemic.

Fortunately…Masks are all the rage right now (I’m smiling).
Emily

Unfortunately…It looks like we’re going to be stuck inside for a few more months.

Fortunately…I live with my sister and we spend lots of quality time together!
Eric

Unfortunately…I haven’t seen a lot of my friends in person recently.

Fortunately…I’ve stayed in better contact with friends who live far away through Zoom.
Jenny

Unfortunately…I’ll miss one of my favorite traditions: spending Thanksgiving with my family.

Fortunately…Everyone is healthy and safe, and we have technology to keep us connected!
Justin

Unfortunately…I did not have a formal college graduation.

Fortunately…I earned a college diploma!
Hilary

Unfortunately…2020!

Fortunately…I’ve gotten to spend more time with my son.
Kenna

Unfortunately…I haven’t been home to visit my parents in 10 months.

Fortunately…I’ve gotten a lot better at Zoom Pictionary.
Keri

Unfortunately…I have been far away from family during this time.

Fortunately…I live on Maui, which is a beautiful place to be quarantined.
Maria

Unfortunately…I haven’t been able to see my sisters who live thousands of miles away.

Fortunately…Technology allows us to stay connected and we are talking more than ever!
Paige

Unfortunately…I haven’t seen my coworkers in person since March.

Fortunately…I have coworkers that I miss seeing!
Philip

Unfortunately…COVID-19.

Fortunately…Healthy family + family time.
Sandy

Unfortunately…I can’t network in person these days.

Fortunately…Z-O-O-M.
Sean

Unfortunately…Our children are missing their friends, a normal school environment, and fun trips away.

Fortunately…They are safe and healthy and we’re more aware of all the things we used to take for granted.
Steve

Unfortunately…I am often stuck at home with my 20-month-old daughter.

Fortunately…I am often stuck at home with my 20-month-old daughter!
Wendy

Unfortunately…My parents are stuck at home.

Fortunately…I can still see them every week.

From all of us at Castle, we wish you a happy, healthy and safe season of gratitude with many “fortunately-filled” moments. We hope you’ll share your 2020 sentiments with us in the comment section. We’d love to hear from you.