So Long, 2020
By: Jenny Thompson
Tags: Goodbye 2020, New Year, Team

A lot was different this year. Our commutes were significantly shorter, our hair significantly longer. We struggled to stay in shape — or put jeans on. Our hands were dried out from washing and sanitizing. We became master gardeners, bakers, and Zoomers.

At MadHive, we hired 36 new employees and welcomed four babies into the world. Many of us moved. Some of us adopted a four-legged friend. A few of us said goodbye to our dearly loved ones. We all spent 2020 differently, but the one thing we can agree on is that our lives are indelibly changed.

Our biggest moments were centered around family & friends …

“Spending more time with my family has been the highlight of 2020. Watching the kids grow and learn to ride a bike is irreplaceable.”

— Jacob Koesterich

“Despite all the madness of 2020, my family was safe, healthy, and able to celebrate my daughter’s Confirmation in October together on a beautiful day!”

— Hugh Scallon

“2020 hasn’t allowed for too many dull moments! Living in an NYC apartment with a toddler and infant is tough enough. Having to entertain our kids and keep them calm and quiet while calls and meetings are going on has been a challenge.”

— Adam Prince

“The highlight of my 2020 was meeting Sam and working in the MadHive office for a whole month before going remote!”

— Margie Baxter

… and some new faces in the house.

“I got my cat Ollie this August, and she became my sweetheart and really healed my life during the pandemic.”

— Shuting Jiang

“The highlight of 2020 for me was having my two handsome boys come home! My fiancé came home from being stationed in North Carolina with the Army for two very long years. A few months later, we adopted our new furry son, Dobby.”

— Christiana Cacciapuoti

“2020 did not go as planned.”

— Jacob Koesterich

We kept our distance …

“This is my son and his friend “playing” together while staying on opposite sides of the street. So 2020.”

— Aimee Lacks

“2020 was the first year I’ve ever rented a car to travel to my parents’ house in South Carolina. A solid 11-hour drive seemed daunting at first, but at this point I’ve done it quite a few times.”

— Jenny Thompson

… spent more time exploring …

“This is me and my fiancé after hiking up Precipice Trail in Acadia. 2020 was an excuse to spend much more time outdoors.”

— Darren McCleary

“The Fearless Girl statue is adorned with lace paying tribute to Ruth Bader Ginsburg. It’s both heartwarming and sad just like it’s been this whole year. A little bit of hope, with sadness, and in your face determination.”

— Wendy Lok

“The highlight of my year was exploring NYC and discovering new places I hadn’t noticed in all my time living here. This is a really tranquil park in the east village that I stumbled upon on a walk one day. Slowing down to observe the details and history of this city has made me appreciate it even more.”

— Stephanie Nerby

… and took the time to slow down.

“Music (food for the soul) , a monitor (work must get done), a baby Buddah (spiritual settling) with the sun reminding us that a new tomorrow is upon us filled with optimism & wonder.”

— Spencer Potts

We got through it, though. Together. It was a year that left us feeling isolated and yet united. So long, 2020. From everyone at MadHive, we wish you a happy and healthy 2021.

We dedicate this post to Gerard “Jerry” Shannon, the father of Caroline Shannon.

“My father had the best outlook. He said he wanted to spend as much time with my mom, enjoy good food & wine, laugh with great friends and make sure his kids knew how proud he was with us. He did that to the T. In the face of death, he taught me how to face it with grace and dignity. What a man and what a life! He is truly missed.” — Caroline Shannon