It’s a couple of weeks since the municipal election and those who didn’t retain their seats on District of Sooke council have had time to ponder their personal and political futures.

At first, Rick Kasper said he didn’t have any comments.

“I’m not going to analyze the election — I never have,” he said.

Life goes on and Kasper said now that he was a private citizen his time would be spent with his family.

“I have an active 15-year-old and I plan to spend a lot more time with him, that’s guaranteed.”

Kasper said during his three years on council he missed many of his son’s games, which were played on Monday evenings, the same night as council.

“I sincerely wish Janet and the new council all the best, and to work hard for the people of Sooke.”

Brenda Parkinson said, “when one door closes, in my case, many more open.”

She said the word “idle” didn’t exist in her vocabulary and now that she has an extra 50 hours per week she will continue to devote her time to organizations where her passions lie.

Her group and committee work includes being a board member of the Sooke Philharmonic Society; committee member of the Garden Tour 2009; and a member of the Legion Elevator Fund Committee.

She plans to continue to put her efforts towards Citizens on Patrol and to writing grants for the Sooke Pipes and Drums

“I still enjoy my walks in the morning with my dad and spending time with my mother,” she said. “I will now be able to attend functions at the Officers’ Mess with Stewart at the Canadian Scottish Regiment and at his golf course in Metchosin.”

Parkinson will explore her creative, academic and business side.

“I am fortunate I am able to see many of my committees’ creations while driving through Sooke. I am proud of the paintings on the pump stations and the graffiti wraps on the hydro boxes, the Spirit Bear and the tourism kiosk. Life like my parties just keeps getting better.”

For Rick Armour life will also go on.

“I’m still involved in a few committees, like the SEAPARC Expansion Review Committee, marshalling the Santa Parade for the Chamber of Commerce (on Dec. 7) and the Safe Halloween Committee,” said Armour.

He said he would be looking in the community for opportunities to contribute by volunteering.

None of the ex-councillors could explain why they did not win back their seat on council. But they are not looking back, only forward.