It’s an understatement to say COVID has thoroughly impacted our lives.
Yes, restrictions have been eased, vaccines are fully available and things seem to be returning to “normal” but it is definitely not the same.

Some have enjoyed the reduction in social (over)scheduling and others remain vigilant in their safeguards for a variety of reasons. Some social situations sound perfectly benign but it’s important to take a moment to consider whether they work for you, your family, and your needs.
If you’re not comfortable with a pending situation, declining is the smart option because if it’s not a full yes that coincides with your comfort zone, then consider erring on the side of caution.

Here are some things to consider when reintroducing yourself to the outside world:

Dining Out

Sure, you need to be double vaxxed to eat in a restaurant, but what if you’re dining with coworkers or a seldomly seen social group? You will need to remove your mask during dining. You will have wait staff that interacts with dozens or even hundreds of people each day. And your food is prepared by someone you don’t know, and you don’t know about their interactions with others. You decide.

Seeing Santa

While most Santa’s Workshops (photo stands) are not yet open, the early reports sound like Santa, his helper elves, and the children will wear face masks at all times. Some locations are booking visits at spaced intervals to allow for sanitizing between guests. Others have visits held outside or socially distanced. Is this tradition necessary and do you feel it’s safe for you and the little ones?

Shopping

Stores have capacity limits, hand sanitization is required before entering, and masks are a must. But the shoppers and store staff can be at any level of vaccination, including unvaccinated. If this situation is concerning for you, consider skipping the malls and shopping smaller local retailers. Many local retailers can also offer personal shopping assistance and make gift suggestions. While the big box stores may allow you to cross more off your to-do list at once, smaller retailers provide the benefit of interacting with fewer people at each stop. What is your preference?

Outdoor Activities

If you want to have social interactions, consider planning outdoor events. For example, meet a friend for a walk. Gather neighbours at the local tobogganing hill for an all-ages celebration – it will create lasting memories when some people barrel down the hills! Take the family skiing for a fun, healthy, safe day. Or consider hosting a holiday-themed bonfire, keeping everyone celebrating outside. There is no limit to the options! And we’ve been told that being outdoors helps to reduce the risk of transmission. Perhaps this is within your limitations for interaction risk?

Whatever your holiday plans are, make sure you do what is best for you. Guidelines are there to keep us all safe, but there’s no harm in taking extra precautions. You are responsible for your health and know your situation. Within the guidelines of what is allowed, always do what feels right for you.