Masks off. Anxiety on. How my first post-vaccine get together felt.

As the world creeps back toward normal as COVID-19 vaccinations ramp up in the U.S., I find myself on a slow track towards my own normalcy. 

First I spent the day out, getting a haircut and my nails done. Then my husband and I had a date night. The next step? A small gathering of vaccinated family members for Memorial Day. 

It was just my husband and I with my in-laws and my husband’s aunt and uncle. Six people sharing a table. Inside. With no masks. 

On the one hand, it was absolutely wonderful to see people, to chat for hours and eat ribs together. Face to face social interaction is so precious, and I really didn’t understand for most of the pandemic how much I was missing it. Talking about deep things, talking about silly things, it was just wonderful to be there. 

we hugged? That I was laughing so loudly? That we spent hours together inside? 

As my family and your start to resume some pre-pandemic activities after full vaccination, I know I’m not alone is feeling some pandemic anxiety even as our risk of infection is distinctly low. Just as we’re going to have to re-learn small talk, managing latent anxiety is another challenge we’ll be facing for awhile. But I’m proud of how I coped, of the happiness I was able to achieve in spite of my worry. I hope it is the start of a great, safe summer. 

here. And stay tuned for more Pride stories. 

Today’s reads

• Erin Jensen talked to “Big Bang Theory” alum Mayim Bialik about her two-week stint guest-hosting “Jeopardy!”
• All about Netflix’s four-part documentary series “High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America.”
• A good book might be the best medicine: Turns out Americans read 73% more during the pandemic than usual. 
• Is your dream job many states away? Might not be a problem in the new normal. As offices reopen after COVID-19, more companies will let employees work from home or hire workers who live far away. 

Today’s pet

This pup knows how to pose. 

“This is Millie!” says owner Laurie Scott. “She’s loved having us work from home – lots of extra walks and napping close by during conference calls! And she’s always available for some cuddles.”

Cuddles are an important part of any work day. 

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