"Planning to ring in 2022 New Year’s safely" by: Jessica Shepard

   We’re finally at the end of the year and I can’t even guess what 2022 will have in store for everyone.
   Looking back, the year’s been overshadowed by COVID-19 and it doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon.
   Only because there are new variants popping up and everything’s become a joke.
   But, our family is still being vigilant and taking precautions as much as possible to stay healthy.
   I’m happy to say that we’ve accomplished it for the year and are headed into 2022 with our face coverings, hand sanitizer, and vaccines in place.
   At this point, it’s almost more normal than anything that came before.
   To be perfectly honest, I’m glad for it and I know it’s a controversial sentiment among most people.
   However, I’ve got immune system-compromised friends and want to keep them around longer.
   Hence the masking and extra efforts to keep germs in the minority.
   It’s a continuous and conscious effort, but if it keeps my friends and family around longer then I’ve got no other options left.
   I just wish that other people would continue the same precautions.
   After all, we’ve made it this long – if anything it’s easier and almost instinctual now, right?
   Regardless, we’re looking at a quiet night at home for New Year’s Eve and Day.
   Mom will most likely push for her traditional New Year’s dinner featuring cabbage, black-eyed peas, and ham leftovers.
   Also, I’m not too concerned either way since it’s always delicious – save for those gross peas.
   I’m not a fan of how they taste despite mom’s attempts to make them somewhat palatable.
   Granted it’s also my sister’s birthday weekend, too.
   That means our plans could change in an instant if she comes home to celebrate with us.
   While I’m hoping she comes through and I get to see her for the first time since October, I understand that her safety is more important.
   And even if the chance for a visit doesn’t work out, we’re hoping that the cold snap takes it easy on us.
   Granted, it should be over in three days or less, but, I’m thoroughly enjoying wearing shorts and T-shirts instead of winter clothing.
   At least we’ll get some use out of the fireplace this weekend.
   Not to mention, mom’s favorite Christmas tree has enough lights to keep us warm in the big living room.
   In fact, between the fireplace and that tree, I’ll be able to wear shorts inside!
   That’s my ultimate goal, honestly – comfort and enough warmth indoors to wear shorts instead of pants or leggings.
   I know it’s odd, but I’ve just got this particular sensation issue with covering my legs when in leisure mode.
   Aside from that, I think we’ll manage with family movie time and indulging in each other’s company.
   I wish you all the best for your New Year’s celebrations and hope that you enjoy them safely.
   After all, there’s nothing worse than ringing in the New Year with an accident, illness or worse – death.
   Please be careful and greet 2022 with your best foot forward!