Did you ever wonder???

Wonder what, you ask? Well I’m wondering if you ever thought you would be giddy about getting a shot? If I were answer, I’d have to say no way! I hate shots…I may be  a #grownasswoman and I know they are no big deal, but I hate them.

The last time I went to the doctor, I had to get a couple of shots…tetanus and shingles (yep…I’m old!) I got one in each arm and honestly, they both hurt a lot…going in and later into the next couple of days for the shingle shot! But I survived!

So, when the COVID-19 vaccine became available, I thought I would dread it…although I had high hopes of it helping us get back to normal. There were a couple of reasons for that…one was the speed at which it was developed and the other was how in the hell were they going to get everyone vaccinated!

I know that most vaccines have taken years to perfect and I have no doubt there will be more improvements to these vaccines, but I also know that technology is available to develop vaccines more quickly now, especially if it is an “all hands on deck” situation!

Finally, we were able to get Mom & Dad vaccinated with their first shot in early February. Second shot for them was February 28. I was really dreading it because so many people had reactions to their second shot. Fortunately, despite being totally prepared, (big pot of vegetable soup, plenty of pain meds and Tylenol), the only side effect was a sore arm. We would not have even known that except that we asked. Praise the Lord! They survived their full vaccine!

I then was able to get onto a waiting list as Kentucky opened up March 1 for my age group! I happily signed up on a Thursday and got an email less that 48 hours later to use my “private code” to sign up for my first shot. Then, I jumped up and announced it to the family! Everyone let out a “woo hoo!” All this excitement over a shot! What in the world?

Today, I am here to tell you that after receiving my first covid vaccine, I have only a sore arm. I’m hoping that my next shot will be similar, but if it’s not, I’ll be prepared. A few hours of aches and pains will be okay, if I am one step closer to being protected.

For those crazies (not my followers of course!) who have said, “this is the government’s way of tracking you” or “it will change your DNA” or “this is one more step towards population control and reduction” or any of the ridiculous statements put out there, I’m sorry, but we will have to agree to disagree.

I am grateful for modern medicine, the opportunity to get this vaccine, and happy to hear that it is quite possible the majority of American adults who wish to be vaccinated will be taken care of by the end of May.

It’s been a long year, my friends, and one that none of us will forget. I feel like things will be “before COVID-19” and “after COVID-19.” I feel confident that I can attend a July wedding, being held outdoors, even if I have to wear a mask (that will be my choice!). I feel even more confident that an October wedding will happen, indoors, and again, even if I have to wear a mask!

Let’s keep being vigilant by getting our vaccines, and taking precautions with those who are not vaccinated. Wearing a mask in crowded places will become the new norm for many and that’s okay with me.

I consider myself blessed that those closest to me who have had covid have not had severe cases. I cannot say that about many of my friends who have family and friends who have died or been extremely sick. The good news is those stories are becoming fewer and fewer and for that, we can all be grateful.

Today, embrace the sunshine and if you are in “my age group” check ALL of the websites that you can to try and get an appointment. It takes some time and work to follow up, but be patient! It will happen!!

I never thought I’d be giddy…over a shot…but this time, I truly am!!!