Author: Kelly Lawler, USA TODAY

On Sunday I got a haircut, got my nails done and ate lunch outside at a diner. It was a big step. I didn’t know how much I needed it.

I’m fully vaccinated and so are most of my family members. Am I ready to get on a plane to see them?

As I start to see the light at the end of the tunnel, I am thinking of needs beyond basic survival. Friends. Socialization. Exploration.

Baking once brought me a lot of joy, but lately I haven’t wanted to. But over the weekend I picked up a whisk.

In just under five weeks, my husband and I will both be at least two weeks beyond our second vaccine shots. And I’ve started counting down.

After a tirelessly tragic week, I hope everyone can get some much needed rest this weekend.

As we inch back towards an open world, I’m worried about how I might be different to friends and family who haven’t seen me.

As vaccinations roll out across the country, some grandparents are finally getting to hug their grandchildren. It’s wonderful to see joy again.