I have been counting down the days until COVID-19 finally stops taking over my life. I think we all have. Cities will start opening up and crowds will start to form again, it literally sounds like a far-fetched dream at this point. I am 90% sure I have lost half of my social skills and ability to make small talk, but at least we are all in the same boat. Here is a list of ten things I am excited for when the world starts to feel a little more normal again.
- Traveling
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Road trip here I come! I have at least ten different cities I want to travel to this summer, and not enough money for any of them. I absolutely love getting to explore new places and gain new experiences. With that on hold all through the current pandemic, I will not be holding back when it’s all over.
- Giving Lots of Hugs
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Human interaction is a must have when the pandemic is over. I was never a big hugger before, but I might be now. I miss the embrace and comfort of a good hug from a family member or friend. This is something I definitely took for granted before COVID hit.
- Seeing Family
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Many of my friends, and myself included, have been unable to see our elder family members because of the risk it imposed on them. I can’t wait to see my grandparents and give them a squeeze.
- Walking Through a Crowd
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A crowded room, street, movie theater – I want it all! Being in crowds and not having to think twice about being socially distanced will be an amazing relief. I can’t wait to appreciate those around me and think a little bit less about my surroundings.
- Meeting New People
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Social distancing equals no new friends. As a social butterfly I love meeting new people and making new friends, especially on my college campus.
- In-Person Classes
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About a year and a half of online education was not what I expected to encounter in undergrad. I cannot stress enough how excited (and nervous) I am to get back to in person classes. The motivational atmosphere is what drives me to keep going and has been greatly missed the past few semesters.
- Hosting
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This year I got the chance to live in a gorgeous apartment with a couple of my friends, but the worst thing about it was not being able to host and show it off! I love a good girl’s night, making showy charcuterie boards and appetizers. Hosting will be at the top of my to do list as soon as it can be.
- Self Pampering
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Not that I have the funds for this either, but I will say getting my nails and eyebrows done and all that jazz can be so rewarding. I have not gone to a nail salon since last March and must admit I am anxious to do some self pampering when this is all over.
- No Masks
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Unfortunately, I think we may be in masks for quite a long time. However, I cannot wait to see people’s facial expressions again. Smiles all around when the masks can come off!
- Going to Restaurants
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I know that restaurants are still open, but it isn’t quite the same. I am looking forward to a no stress night out at some of my favorite restaurants.
With some inspiration up above, I think it’s important to take some time and write a list of all the things you are looking forward to when COVID-19 is officially in the past. I think we have all gotten so used to the routine, masks on and 6ft apart, that it can be hard to imagine our lives going back to normal. Having a list of all the positive things you can’t wait to experience again can be a way to give you something to look forward to.