Re-entry, Part 4

KD is still off having adventures, so you get bonus Siri this month!

[CW: pandemic, mental health]

Last time I wrote a re-entry post, I’d just gotten back from visiting family in Montreal, and I wrote about how big a step it was for me and how exhausting I found it. Well, I’ve just had another Montreal visit (to see a very small human and their parents — my third bit of travel this year, all for family reasons).

I’m pleased to report that it felt much more doable. My stamina for peopling was better — I did need frequent introvert-recharge breaks, but that’s always been true for me. I kept my mask on during most of the long train ride and on public transit, but not in a coffee shop or on busy sidewalks.

(Also, the weather and the leaves were gorgeous, as has been the case every time I’ve visited in the fall. Highly recommend October in Montreal, especially if you can get there by taking the train.)

I’ve started going to contra dances again — masks are still required, which makes them feel much safer, and it’s wonderful to be back with my dance community after so long. My spouse and I have been cautiously eating in restaurants now and then, as long as they’re mostly empty and/or there’s a lot of airflow from open windows. I still wear masks on public transit and mostly in stores. I’m in no hurry to risk going anywhere crowded — I didn’t like crowded or noisy places before and I doubly don’t like them now — but I’m gradually getting used to being in public indoor spaces again.

(That could change if/when numbers rise again. I know at least four people who’ve caught COVID this fall and did not have a fun time, despite being well protected. I’m still in no hurry to catch it, or any of the other viruses that are circulating. I used to get at least four colds a year and I don’t miss them one bit.)

One thing I haven’t had to face yet is going back to the office on a regular basis, as I’m still (gratefully) working from home. I suspect that won’t last, so it will likely be the next big re-entry step…and you may get another installment in this series!

How are you feeling? Is the pandemic “over” for you, or are you still being cautious?