No Rush for Pre-Pandemic Life?
We have been fortunate that the pandemic has not affected us financially, and no one in our immediate family has been infected so far. Of course, I feel for those that have lost their jobs, closed their businesses, gotten sick, or lost loved ones from COVID. As far as those aspects go, I want the pandemic to end as soon as possible. On the other hand, there are many aspects of life I am in no hurry to return to.
I have enjoyed my wife working from home. We see each other more, mornings are less stressful, etc. It has given us a glimpse of what retirement might be like in a few years, and we like it.
I like that most folks dress and act more casual now. My wife hasn't worn dress clothes to work for almost a year, and half the people at the grocery store show up in pajama bottoms.
I have not missed family reunions, birthday parties, or other social gatherings. I never enjoy attending those and it has been a refreshing breather not to have those obligations.
Bad son award... I have enjoyed not having to take my mom grocery shopping. I still pick up groceries for her, but I can make the trip out and back in an hour, compared to 3-4 hours when I have to pick her up and take her.
I like not having to drive so much. We spend half as much on gas and don't have the stress of the daily drive.
I don't even mind wearing a mask. During the colder months I've actually enjoyed having something to keep my face warm.
About the only things I miss from the "old world" are going out for dinner or a movie with my wife. I also miss being able to travel freely.
I honestly don't expect big changes till the end of the year at the earliest, but I'm not looking forward to many of the obligations and responsibilities of "normal" life.