Looking for Rainbows was an initiative by urban designer and researcher Jenny Elliott, aiming to share messages of hope and community during the Covid-19 lockdown by photographing the hand-drawn rainbows appearing at windows across the city, and the people that created them. Over the course of the 7 weeks from lockdown starting at the end of March 2020, Jenny cycled to neighbourhoods across Edinburgh to take the following 100 photos.

Jenny volunteered her time in a personal capacity to do this. The aim? To share some positive stories of community, solidarity, gratitude and hope during these unprecedented times, and to raise money for charity Social Bite. It was a privilege to meet so many wonderful people. I enjoyed exploring parks, back streets, cycle routes and part of the city more fully than I had before. Thanks to everyone who took part.

Want to find out more about the experience and project? Read the full story on the blog, view all 100 photos below or on Instagram, or purchase the book which includes all photos and the story of how the project came about (all proceeds to charity Social Bite).

Rainbow 1: Tristan, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I didn't, my wife did. Who, besides loving rainbows, lives to make people happy and this was a nice way of spreading the cheer".

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How hard a job it must be to look after a herd of 2 year olds 5 days a week.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "People have learned to survive locally and travel less by car. Hopefully this walking and cycling mentality persists after shutdown is over.”

Rainbow 2: Sam, Heather, Fin, Eddie and Anna in Bruntsfield, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To give the message of hope and positivity at this difficult time".

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Working together and helping each other out despite the enforced isolation. This has also made us appreciate what a wonderful, strong and cohesive local community we have.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Community spirit is alive and well and we will all bounce back from this together.”

Rainbow 3: Landscape Architect students Anna, Eppie and Laura from Leamington Terrace, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We loved the idea of the city wide treasure hunt to cheer everyone up".

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "The names of our neighbours! Having this community has been important.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "It's not forever!”

Rainbow 4: Adam and Carole, Bruntsfield, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To cheer people up as they go past."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How many lovely people there are in the street.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "It will be over one day.”

Rainbow 5: Stephanie, Jaimo and Isla, Bruntsfield, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "For all the residents of the area to spot on their walk/bike."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "The importance of routine.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Every red light turns green! We will come out of this stronger and united.”

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Rainbow 6: Björn, Emma, Oliver and Leo, Bruntsfield, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To spread happiness and joy in the community."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That we enjoy a slower pace of life, more family time and better connections with our neighbours.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "As a society, we will hopefully come through this a little bit wiser, kinder and more caring.”

Rainbow 7: Ewan, Bruntsfield, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I was inspired by your project. I was wrestling with a self-portrait that I had started in early March, and it occurred to me that overlaying a rainbow on top of the face could make it much more interesting. The painting also tries to convey some of the trapped feeling that is floating around at the moment."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Home is where the heart is.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "How beautiful to hear birds and children laughing rather than the incessant roar of road traffic.”

Rainbow 8: Dee, Josh and Max, spreading the love in lockdown, The Grange, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To spread the cheer and for children to spot whilst out on their daily walk 🌈"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Nothing much else matters other than love, family and good health.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We will be together again.”

Rainbow 9: Kathryn, Aythya and Polly, Polwarth Crescent, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To spread positivity and to give local children something to look out for. It shines through our window all day so it keeps our spirits up too!"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Not to take the little things for granted.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We're all in this together, be kind and help where you can. This won't last forever!”

Rainbow 10: Catriona, Joffy, Callum, Olly and Lauren - Bruntsfield, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I had seen them in other people’s windows and thought it was a lovely thing for the kids to get involved in."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That slowing down can be a good thing!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This will all end at some point and we will come out of this with a stronger community spirit than ever.”

Rainbow 11: Claire, Alex, Sasha and Leila, Merchiston, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We made the rainbows to cheer people up when they’re out for their daily exercise."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We can still stay connected to people even if we are physically distanced from them.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We will hopefully come out of this as a stronger more connected community.”

Rainbow 12: My daughter Maggie, along the canal path, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "A great fun activity for kids to do plus brings a smile to passers by on canal path."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We all need to slow down in life more.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Good things always come out of a bad situation.”

Rainbow 13: The Armstrong's, Shandon, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We love community spirit! We love the message of hope and the splashes of colour around the neighborhood."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Although I miss the freedom, the slower pace of life is a welcome change from the stresses of our usual lives!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Although it's stormy now, the rain will always pass. I hope we will come out the other side of this with more appreciation and compassion for each other.”

Rainbow 14: Alison, Neil, Ella and Sonny the dog, Polwarth, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show anyone working hard to save lives just how much we appreciate their dedication. They are incredible."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Spending time together as a family is almost medicinal when lives have become so fast paced. When you stop you realise just how fast we have all been pedalling.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Staying at home and everyone working towards that has made a difference. Collective action works!”

Rainbow 15: Collaborative stairwell creatives, ‘Landing 3’ neighbours, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I wanted to feel part of the rainbow movement and bring a smile to my lovely neighbours faces"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Being with myself, without distractions (work, hobbies, etc) is actually really nice. I enjoy getting to know myself, who am I now and who do I want to be.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We can all contribute to the world being a better place through small acts of kindness - we all can. From a smile to helping hands on or a food donation. We can.”

Rainbow 16: Harper and Rocco making use of what we have (the rainbow is made from recycled household goods, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To share the message of hope for my children and others to see."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That we are able to cope with less.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "That hard times give us perspective and we will come out of this stronger and happier.”

Rainbow 17: Jo & Tom, Newington, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I am a key worker (in a supermarket) so wanted to support other amazing key workers!"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We can all pull together and support one another when it is so important.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "That we will get though this and to stay positive.”

Rainbow 18: Tori, Nieve, Amelia and Jude (Dad a policeman, keyworker), Blackford, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "The kids loved making them and it felt like we were part of a big community supporting key workers."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How lucky we are.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Tough times don’t last, tough people do!”

Rainbow 19: Nicole, Jason, Abigail, Charlotte and Kiera, Blackford Hill, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To spread the feeling of hope in these hard times, to give other children a stop along their rainbow hunt and to provide a fun activity for my own children."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That my children love their siblings SO much!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We will all get through this and will give hugs again soon!”

Rainbow 20: Ronan, Ellen, Ewan, Cara, Anna and Lucy, Gilmore Place, Bruntsfield, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "It brings the community together and it’s nice for kids to spot on their walks...my kids love seeing them in other windows."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much I’ve taken my old life for granted but also how well a community supports each other in a time of crisis....technically that’s two things!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Self raising flour will make a come-back!”

Rainbow 21: Tom (10) and Oscar (7), Easter Road (and their mum and dad), Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Because we want to give some joy to our neighbours. And also because rainbows represent the bridge between us and the ones we miss, so it makes us think of them."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Teachers deserve a lot more than a box of chocolates or a bottle of wine at the end of the school year!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "No matter what happens, there will be better times ahead.”

Rainbow 22: Tim, Rachael, Teddy and Reuben. Leith, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To cheer people up when they saw it at to help connect us with our community and all the other rainbow makers."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Despite the challenges, we love being together and are lucky to be healthy and get to spend this time together.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "It maybe hard to be apart from our family and friends for this short time but it will keep us all safe. Those hugs will be even more precious when we get them back.”

Rainbow 23: Richard, Sarah, Carys, Abi, Eva and Rosa. Leith, Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "My daughter painted our rainbow to cheer everyone up as they were passing by. We also heard children were going on rainbow hunts as entertainment."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "It’s amazing how busy you can be doing nothing. We are a family of 6 and I’m surprised how seldom there have been complaints of boredom.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This is a weird and worrying time for lots of people, but it won’t last forever.”

Rainbow 24: Gemma, Kelman, Lewis and Zach. Edinburgh

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "For my little boy (who turned 4 in lockdown) to have up so his friends from nursery could spot them on their walks. Connection and hope."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much I have and am grateful for but also how much I take for granted seeing friends and my mum and dad.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "One day this will be a memory on the other side of the rainbow.”

Rainbow 25: Kristen, Ross, Cary & Blyth, Pilrig, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To bring a smile to any kids passing by!"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Staying creative is super important for keeping my mood up and refreshing my resources for the kids!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We are so lucky to be going through this in this time and with the technology we have to stay connected with each other.”

Rainbow 26: Sarah, Bella and Hudson. Tollcross, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "My twins wanted to do one after learning that others from their Nursery class had made some. They enjoy looking for their friends rainbows on our daily walk."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That family, really is, ALL we need.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "These days won’t last forever. Look for the positive in each one and it’ll help.”

Rainbow 27: Kerry (age 11), Lauriston Place, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To spread joy and also recognise the hard work of the NHS and other key workers."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much we should embrace the ones that we love, not being able to easily reach out and hug them is tough.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Stay positive, we will come through this, as stronger people than we were.”

Rainbow 28: Libby and Will, Newington, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I wanted to feel like a part of something bigger, a part of a community. I also thought it was a fun thing for people to spot whilst out and about exercising."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Everyone has good days and bad days and someone always has things better or worse than you.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Everything passes, good or bad.”

Rainbow 29: Grierson, Susan, Hugh, Findlay and Rosie Dunlop, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We have always loved drawing and making rainbows and always saw them as hope so we were delighted that this was the symbol of hope at this time and loved that by putting more out there, more people could feel a sense of hope."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "You don’t need much to be happy. A bike, a cuddle and some yeast and you can feel like a millionaire.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This storm will pass and we will move on stronger. Our planet has already shown that small changes can make huge impact and we must learn from this.”

Rainbow 30: James, Helen, Isobel, Will and Jack Blackford, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We painted our rainbow to lift our children’s spirits and to give them a message of hope. We hope by putting it in our window we can share this message with everyone walking past."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "To appreciate the small things in life that are too often taken for granted.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Stay positive. If we believe tomorrow will be better we can bear the hardship today.”

Rainbow 31: Paul, Kirsty, Ellie and Ben in Roseburn, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show our support for the NHS and all key workers."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That it is lovely to spend more time together as a family and enjoy a slower pace of life.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "That working together has brought out the best of people and made us stronger and more caring.”

Rainbow 32: Sadie and Pia Walsh, Belmont Crescent, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To cheer up passers by and as a Thank you to Keyworkers."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "You can survive with all you have.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Nothing lasts forever, every cloud has a silver lining.”

Rainbow 33: The Calder Clan, Clermiston, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show solidarity in the community, take part in the kids "counting the rainbows" and to do a positive activity with our children to help them understand the current situation."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That we can adapt and that a lot of the things we stressed about don't matter!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Keep taking it one day at a time, stick together, follow the rules and we will get through this!”

Rainbow 34: The Pound Family, Davidson Mains, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I work in the local Nursery and we’ve been keeping in contact with our children online. I put a picture of the nursery animals with their rainbow so the children could spot it and encourage them to make their own - making others smile!"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That there is a community spirit & others do want to help each other.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We’re all in this together and If we work together (2 metres apart!) we’ll get though this!”

Rainbow 35: Derek, Catriona, Megan, Callum and Ellie in Balgreen, Murrayfield, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To support the amazing work being done by the NHS during the current pandemic."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Community spirit is very important.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We are all in this together and not everything is cancelled. Kindness, love and friendship will always win through.”

Rainbow 36: Katherine, Darrick, Aurelia, Micah, and Madeleine Evensen. Bruntsfield, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show solidarity with the local and global communities who are all going through this pandemic together."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We've learned to center ourselves and make positive choices to do the next right thing.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We'll be playing with our friends in the school yard soon enough! Just keep the good choices up.”

Rainbow 37: Anna, Magnus, Archie, Millie and George in Bruntsfield, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "As something positive and cheerful for people to spot on their daily exercise and to show our huge support for the incredible NHS and key workers."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We’ve learned that slowing down can be a good thing and that there are so many things that we race about doing that aren’t always necessary. We’ve also learned to be tolerant (as much as possible!) of each other and that we’re lucky to have a safe home and an amazing health service who are brave enough to keep working to get us through this.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "As awful as all of this is, its has been wonderful to see how people can connect in new ways, from saying hello to neighbours we’ve never even met before from our windows in our square at 8pm on Thursdays to keeping in touch with friends, family and work colleagues via the internet. Baking, bike rides on empty roads, meetings in pyjama bottoms and hand cream are things we’ve been grateful for.”

Rainbow 38: Lula, Eren and Arman and their parents and cat Tilly, Viewforth Square, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show that we are all in this together and that we care about our neighbours."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That if you let go of routines and deadlines everyone finds their own new hobbies and pastimes and becomes a little bit more content and somehow together.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Nothing lasts forever neither bad nor good so try and look forward to better times and look for positives in the bad times.”

Rainbow 39: Holly, Rob and Rachel, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Two of our daughter's grandparents worked in the NHS and we just wanted to show our support."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much we value being able to leave the house without having to plan ahead.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This has made us realise despite various differences across communities we are all ultimately the same.”

Rainbow 40: Jane and Beth - doing our best in Morningside, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show friendship and support for others."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Make sure there is wine in the fridge!!!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We will get through this together”

Rainbow 41: Ava & Mia, South Morningside, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "It was the first homeschooling activity we completed."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We need a lot less than we think we do.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "I think this experience will change the way we live our everyday lives for the better.”

Rainbow 42: Fran, Stu, Marlie and Beth, Greenbank, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "My daughters were really keen to paint rainbows for the windows. Ours are to brighten people’s walks and also to say thank you to all essential workers."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We love our friends and family and miss them all a great deal. But we have also learned we are very lucky to have each other and our gardens to spend time in.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We know this won’t last forever, we need to stay safe to keep others safe. One day we can hug our family and friends again. Thank you to all essential workers, particularly the NHS staff, we are so grateful for all you do.”

Rainbow 43: Craig, Sarah, Jessica & Harry, Swanston, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show our appreciation for all key workers and the NHS."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We have learned to be grateful for what we have, appreciate small things in life and have enjoyed spending precious time as a family.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Everything you really need is the simple things.”

Rainbow 44: Fiona, Paul, Hollie, Elsie and Kitty, Shandon, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "For kids to spot on their daily walk. We can see people looking at it and smiling as they walk by."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "I’m not actually in lockdown. My family is though. I get a ‘break’ from being in the house and there’s a juxtaposition with our existence just now. It makes me feel lucky that I can do something as prosaic as getting on a bus and going to work. I appreciate normality.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Communities have come together in ways that I haven’t seen before. Strangers helping and sharing with each other. I hope that after all this is a memory, that sense of community remains.”

Rainbow 45: Lindsay and Howard with their children Jaxon, Devon and Declan and their curly dog, Dexter! Liberton, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "As a sign for the children to show solidarity to each other - like a wave from each other's windows - my children were so excited to see a rainbow in a house opposite ours."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That we don't need the wider world or places to "take" the children to for entertainment and spending money - they are equally as happy with us doing things with them at home and in our garden.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Everything will be ok in the end, if it's not ok, it's not the end! - said once by John Lennon.”

Rainbow 46: Sienna, Isabella and Indie, Newington, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To be something kids could ‘find’ on walks, to bring some colour to passers by and To have fun with my girls."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That my kids are just so happy at home. Oh and I can now make a mean sourdough bread.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "If you can be one thing, be happy. Because being in lockdown and miserable isn’t going to be much fun.”

Rainbow 47: Grahame, Orla, Thomas and Charlie, Fairmilehead, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We wanted our neighbours to see a happy, colourful rainbow to cheer them up on their daily walk."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We are slowing down and enjoying each other’s company more. We are taking time to enjoy simple things like a walk, a cycle or cooking together. Normally we are too ‘busy’.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We will look back on this pandemic and realise how much we value touch, closeness, hugs, a social life and travelling, then we will realise how much we took for granted.”

Rainbow 48: The Bruce-Maguire’s, Gorgie, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To share a small sign of solidarity and hope with passersby. We also wanted to show appreciation for our key workers."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much we took for granted and the impact we have been having on our environment.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We will get through this together 🌈.”

Rainbow 49: ICU nurse, Jennifer, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I have always loved rainbows & felt so inspired by all the amazing creations popping up in windows all over Edinburgh. I wanted to make my own to hopefully brighten up somebody else’s day."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "To not take anything for granted - family, friends & health. But also - pasta, toilet roll, flour & tinned tomatoes!!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This will pass!”

Rainbow 50: Emma, Graeme and Jessica, Stockbridge, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To make people happy and so people will wave."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How to use zoom to get together with family.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Together we can get through.”

Rainbow 51: Jenna, James and Matilda, Inverleith, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "There's not much we can do right now but sit tight, but we wanted to show our support for our wonderful NHS."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Hard to choose between two: your community of family, friends and neighbours is what gets you through a thing like this, and craft isn't as scary as I thought it was.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Even in the bleakest times you'll laugh and find joy, try to focus on those moments when you can.”

Rainbow 52: Jonathan, Amy, Amelie and Charlotte, Trinity, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We heard people were putting rainbows in their windows to spread some cheer! As a family we believe that rainbows are a promise of peace and hope from God."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "It has helped us realise that we can lead much simpler lives and truly appreciate the things that are most valuable: family, friends and community.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "If it’s okay I’d like to share a bible quote: ‘For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.’ ”

Rainbow 53: Fizza, Ayaat, Nayil and grandparents Shabbir and Rohina, Trinity, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We live between 3 schools and it’s strange to not see kids. We wanted to give kids going by something to smile about and have hope for the future."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Not to take anything for granted. We are very fortunate and things may change but in the end, you always have family.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This too shall end. Life will be different after but it doesn’t have to be bad, it can be bright like the rainbow.”

Rainbow 54: Jess, Arran, Archie, Lyra and Scruff from Leith, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "So that kids looking out for them have one to find. Also to bring a smile to peoples faces and show solidarity."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "To never take seeing my parents for granted.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We will get through this and be stronger than before.”

Rainbow 55: Jenny, Ray, Lucy and Daniel, Portobello, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "My kids begged me to do it. I’m a doctor along with their two uncles and they are so proud of everyone working for the nhs they wanted to show everyone."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "The importance of appreciating the small stuff we took for granted, time with family, fun times at the beach, hanging out with granny. May we remember how we missed it forever.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Take one day at a time. As a doctor I am so proud of everyone in our team and all those making huge sacrifices in their daily lives to look after themselves and others. There is so much good in people.”

Rainbow 56: Regina, Amira and Damian, Comely Bank, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "My toddler loves spotting rainbows on our walks, so we created one together for all the other children to spot."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "I’ve reminded myself that actually a slower pace of life is ok, and that you can do a lot with a little.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We are all in this together.”

Rainbow 57: Claire and Katie, Wester Hailes, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We love rainbows and wanted to join in."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much we took for granted before.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This will end and better days are coming.”

Rainbow 58: Heather (Clinical Support Worker), Wester Hailes, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I work for the NHS and I wanted to thank all my fellow key workers for all their hard work and show them my appreciation."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "I will never take a hug for granted again.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Communities look out for each other.”

Rainbow 59: Daniel and Gregor with their Mum and Dad, by Harrison Park, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show respect to the NHS, especially because our aunty Al works there."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That it can get quite boring and it will get in the way of school fair and Halloween which will be sad for a lot of people.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "I hope lockdown ends soon. Try your best to find something you like doing to help you get through it.”

Rainbow 60: Eilidh, Rob and Elsie. Corstorphine, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Just before lockdown we had to move my mum into a nursing home. We wanted to send a message of support and hope to all the carers working in nursing homes and caring for mum."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How to make a mean sourdough loaf.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This too shall pass. And we will come out of this stronger and more connected to our communities.”

Rainbow 61: Nigel, Linda, Mairi and Keira, Corstorphine, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I saw them up in other people's windows and liked how cheery they looked so suggested to my kids that we could do the same!"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much easier it is to fill a day with no plans than I ever thought before!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We will come out the other side of this stronger and with a clearer understanding of what really matters in this life.”

Rainbow 62: Fiona, Tatu, Dylan and Milla - Corstorphine, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Once the schools closed down, the rainbow was to show hope and solidarity for all those children who passed by the house."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That we can adapt to anything!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "That when we work together as a family and a community we can achieve great things, we’ll get through this!”

Rainbow 63: Mary, Stuart and Grace. Parkgrove, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We wanted to show our appreciation for all our key workers and hopefully make people smile."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That community spirit is still here! This has brought out the best in some people.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Life can change dramatically so fast but we can adapt quickly too and we'll get through it together!”

Rainbow 64: Jenni, Simon, Oskar & Alfred, Bruntsfield, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To spread some hope and happiness in our community. Lots of families at our school were doing it, so that the kids could go rainbow spotting on their daily walk, and we wanted to be part of that."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "What a great community we live in. We kind of knew that already, but it’s really been amplified by the current situation, with everyone pulling together to support each other.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This too shall pass. Stay strong and be kind.”

Rainbow 65: Kayleigh, Marchmont Hardware, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show our support and gratitude to the NHS and other key workers."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Don’t take anything for granted.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Don’t give up! This won’t last forever :)”

Rainbow 66: Mark, Michele & Henry in Priestfield, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We put up a rainbow to show solidarity with several of our neighbours who are NHS workers. And it brightens up our day too!"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Having our 3-year old boy at home has been easier than expected, but only because we’re not both working due to current circumstances.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Try to enjoy time together while you can, before busy schedules take over again.”

Rainbow 67: Jenny, Felix and Robin, Blackford, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show solidarity with our community and give the kids something to spot on our daily walk."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much I miss my mum!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We are stronger than we believe.”

Rainbow 68: Martha, Morningside, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Solidarity? To cheer people up as they pass?"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Starting a new job remotely is incredibly difficult!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We can do this! As long as we’re not dicks about the rules!”

Rainbow 69: Karine, Bill and Luc, Polwarth, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We did it at the very start of the lockdown,to give something to do to my boy and as a symbol of hope."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We are lucky to have a home.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "I hope for a greener and more simple life.”

Rainbow 70: Eve, Mike, Florence and Winnie, Colinton, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We put rainbows in our window to cheer up those suffering through the coronavirus isolation. My toddler also loves to count each rainbow she sees on our daily walk."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That we are stronger than we think and has better equipped our family for the future.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This will pass.”

Rainbow 71: Sara, Luke and Saoirse, Buckstone, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To cheer up the children doing rainbow walks in our area and to show support for the NHS and all the other essential workers doing an amazing job to keep us safe."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That there is nothing more important than family but that doesn’t mean you sometimes won’t drive each other crazy!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "There are better times ahead. In the meantime, keeping looking for the rainbows 🌈”

Rainbow 72: Stuart, Laura, Rebecca and Jessica, Buckstone, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We have enjoying looking for people’s rainbows on our walks so wanted to add one for other people."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We don’t need everything we had before - we can be enough for each other.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "I get hope from the fact that as a society we have stopped everything to protect people, it shows how much we can care for other people, I hope for a greater understanding of the importance of a more equal society once this is over.”

Rainbow 73: Robert, Karina, Darragh, Aila and Aisling, Greenbank, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We had just returned from New Zealand where we spent 7 weeks in lockdown and had seen all the stories of the rainbows so we really wanted to be involved once we got home."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That we need WAY less stuff than we have. We were travelling with our three children and when we went into lockdown we managed to get some arts supplies and luckily had a kids kindle for lots and lots of books, so really the only things toy-wise the kids really missed was lego! We also realised how much we liked spending time together as a family. At home where everyone has their own room people can disappear but when we only had a small place in New Zealand there was no escape and in lots of ways it was really great. We played way more games, and were also really lucky to have been staying right on the beach so lots of fun family times there. Being home is lovely though, it's so nice to be closer to friends, family and neighbours, and just feel the community even when we can't see people properly.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "I think this has shown us all how much people care about each other. The people who do stupid things to put others in danger are the minority and most people really want to help each other.”

Rainbow 74: Jo, Malcolm, Cara and Rory. Morningside, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We love the thought of a rainbow being a sign of hope and a brighter future. The kids also wanted to show it as a sign of supporting the NHS."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Although we need to stay apart we are all in this together!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We hope for a future where people are kinder, more thoughtful and continue to work together. We hope that through all this tragedy that there will be positives and better ways of living and working as a result of what we learn during this pandemic.”

Rainbow 75: Miranda and Brodie, The Wisp, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show hope, bring a smile to people’s faces and for children to spot on their walks."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "My son and I are very content in our own company.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Lockdown has taught us all what’s important in life and we should prioritise our health and happiness over money.”

Rainbow 76: Nic, Brian, Seth and Maeve. Newcraighall, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To make others smile. And try to share some love."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Nothing is more important than family and kindness.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "You're always stronger than you think.”

Rainbow 77: Jill (key worker) , Phil (furloughed) Joshua (aged 1) and Ralph the dog, Brunstane, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Because seeing other people’s rainbows in their windows brought me happiness on our daily walks."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Appreciate the little things.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Absence makes the heart grow stronger.”

Rainbow 78: Moira, Kerr, Maisie-Grace (age 9) and Douglas the daft spaniel, beautiful Portobello by the sea, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Right at the start of lockdown it was a sign of solidarity and it was cheery - something for folks to spot as they took their daily exercise-that’s why we have all the teddies too...the rainbow has always been a symbol for hope and a promise of grace...both of which we need at this time."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That I am an extrovert who loves people and misses physical contact and that a world with fewer cars and slower pace is a really good thing.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "I am training to be a Church of Scotland minister and I know that through all times good and bad love will always overcome hate and light can always be found even in the deepest darkest pit...I know it as Gods love for us all.”

Rainbow 79: Amy, Mike, Hank and Stan, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We love counting rainbows on our walks and hope that other families enjoy ours."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We've learned that we can get by with much less than we thought.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This too shall pass.”

Rainbow 80: Ren, Andy and Moira, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Spotting Rainbows while we're out on our walks brought us cheer, so we thought we would join in and we love a rainbow."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Be kind, be patient and don't get stressed trying to teach your child.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Hold on, we will get through this.”

Rainbow 81: Garrett, Julie (Nurse), Martha (12) and Aoife (10), Duddingston, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We thought that it would be nice for children to count rainbows whilst having their daily exercise. They gave us hope and made us feel protected."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That we used to rush around too much!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "A big event can make it feel like the world is falling apart... but there are lots of little acts of kindness holding it together.”

Rainbow 82: Gordon, Claire and Joshua, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "My 6 year old loves drawing. We also go out on rainbow hunts and wanted to get involved."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "It’s super hard, not being free to go out and about if and when you want. My husband is working from home, I’m a key worker, and my 6 year old is an only child. It’s hard trying to juggle everything.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "A big event can make it feel like the world is falling apart... but there are lots of little acts of kindness holding it together.”

Rainbow 83: Tim, Katy, Evie and Sam. Willowbrae, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Because our family loves rainbows, and because we wanted to make everyone look at our rainbow and feel happy."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much we enjoy hanging out together as a family. Slow time is good time.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "That kindness was what came bubbling to the surface when we were really up against it.”

Rainbow 84: Derek, Joanne, Matthew and Emma, Mountcastle, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We wanted to show our support for the NHS and it was a good way to make the kids understand."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much you do that you just take for granted and how important family is.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Every day can be tough but there is an end to this. We have started doing post it notes for all the things we'd like to do once it is all over. It's good to look to the future.”

Rainbow 85: Zoe, Mark, Ails and Katie. Duddingston, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We saw a few in the neighbourhood on our walks and wanted to join in with the fun. It was also a lovely activity for us to do as a family so we decided to go big with our rainbow!"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "There are really beautiful places to walk and explore really close by. Without this time we wouldn’t have found them.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We will appreciate time with our family and friends SOOO much when this is over. And it will be over.”

Rainbow 86: Kathryn, Fred and Penny, Portobello, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We love looking at all the beautiful rainbows in our neighbourhood and wanted to take part."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How much we’ve enjoyed slowing down.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We are stronger together.”

Rainbow 87: Sheelagh, George, Maisie and Toren, Trinity, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "As a fun activity for my child."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That I miss seeing people a lot more than I ever thought I would.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We are stronger than we think.”

Rainbow 88: Mhari, Lee and Eve, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To show support and for children to spot whilst out walking."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Never take anything for granted.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "After the storm there is always a rainbow.”

Rainbow 89: Staying Safe in Fraser Crescent, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We wanted to show our support to everyone and to share the message “Stay Safe”."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "That our work/life balance was out of sync and we all need to appreciate what we’ve got a lot more!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Stay Safe and be happy - you never know what’s round the corner both positive or negative.”

Rainbow 90: The Gajewski family, Comely Bank, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Hope. I love the line: 'after the rain comes the 🌈."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "How important community support is. I love my local independent shops and am trying my best to shop local in the hope they survive.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "😂After the rain comes the 🌈, and afternoon the storm comes the ☀️”

Rainbow 91: Theo, Clara, Sarah and John. Old Town, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "My children were keen to take part in the trend and love it when people stop to look and wave. They like to look out for everyone else's rainbows too."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We don't have to constantly be on the go and can enjoy quiet time together at home.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We'll get through this. It's been fantastic how everyone has pulled together.”

Rainbow 92: Patrick, Bex, Charlie, Ava and Esme from the lovely Leamington Terrace in Bruntsfield, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To spread some positivity while everyone is stressed and worried."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Being creative helps.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Look for the rainbow and stay happy!”

Rainbow 93: ‘Be Happy’, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "Our neighbours put rainbows up so I thought we will put some up for them. Also wanted to make people just a bit more happier when passing by. Colours cheer you up, don’t they?"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Time is precious and we should appreciate this extra time we have with our family.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "People survived war, we can survive this. We should not feel scared or stressed. Positivity goes a long way.”

Rainbow 94: Steve, Kirsty, Heidi and Eilidh, Greenbank, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We love drawing and we love rainbows and we just wanted to make people smile! And it’s was lots of fun. A little rainbow can make a big smile!"

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We have learnt how important teachers are and what a hard job they do!”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "This will not last forever! Hopefully we have learned a lot about the importance of family, friends, health and happiness.”

Rainbow 95: Lottie, Kenny, Cassandra and the mysterious guineafish rainbow, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "My daughter wanted to put up a rainbow with a guinea fish under it (her own creation!) to join in what was happening in the neighbourhood. She knows why the rainbows have been made and she wanted to join in."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "The kindness of others. Watching our community pull together has been wonderful. We all live such separate lives. I feel this has opened up a community spirit.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Look for the good in every day. This experience has refocused my attention and I have found this time an unexpected gift to be with my family and share our lives together in a more meaningful way.”

Rainbow 96: The Hardie family and Cinders the Cat, Murrayfield, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We’re opposite Roseburn Park and lots of people with kids pass by on their way there. Sharing our rainbows means ‘you’re not alone, we’re right here with you’."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "You can do anything when you put your heart and mind to it.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "A reawakened sense of self and community has lit up our lives and continues to grow.”

Rainbow 97: Arianna, Lena and Malcolm, Blackhall, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "My daughter wanted to show her creativity for the NHS Support."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Family time is precious so we make the most of It when we can, It has opened our eyes of how hard the teachers work looking after all the school children.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "Let’s all stay focused during this lockdown, we will come out the other side a lot stronger.”

Rainbow 98: The Cammo Gang, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "To support the NHS - a joint effort by all 5 kids."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "A slower life is so much more enjoyable.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We can get through this together.”

Rainbow 99: Jenny, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "I put a rainbow up at the start of lockdown, whilst self-isolating and when the streets were empty except the occasional jogger or cyclist passing by. I hoped it would be a way to visually communicate solidarity and community at a time when we were having very few interactions with people in person, and almost no-one in the streets. A visual reminder of community to anyone who saw it."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "Everyone’s experience of lockdown is different, but together we are all going through a huge period of change and uncertainty. It’s been so lovely to see that in times of crisis, community comes together in new ways and that kindness is not only valued more highly than usual, but everywhere.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "We often expect to see the worst of people in times like these, but the vast majority of the time people have come together to find new ways to support each other and those more vulnerable than they are. The air has been cleaner, more people have taken up cycling and walking to get around, the environment and wildlife have benefitted. I hope that we have learned things as a society from this which will lead to a better future.”

Rainbow 100: Sarah, Jordan and Isobel, Bruntsfield, Edinburgh.

• Why did you put a rainbow up in your window? "We were late to join this very happy bandwagon. Spotting rainbows made us smile on our daily walk so we decided to help spread the joy. This was Isobel’s first ever painting, so we’ll keep it forever."

• What is one thing you've learned from the lockdown so far? "We’ve learned that there is always more to discover about nature locally. Never have we been so grateful for nearby green spaces, woody spots and hills. The quiet roads en route make them feel even more special.”

• What message of hope would you like to share? "These words from Nan Shepherd feel particularly powerful at the moment: “It's a grand thing, to get leave to live”.”