I have been thinking and worrying too much, so the point of this post is to get it out so that I may sleep. A fortnight ago, I travelled home for the first time since returning to the lab, and despite keeping distance from my family, wearing face coverings on public transport and increased use of hand sanitiser, it felt much more normal and comfortable than my visit in July. Since then, more rules have been introduced, but they would've made very little difference to my trip. In fact, now that people in established relationships do not have to distance, the new rules would actually make me feel better! (I justified being close to my partner because we did move in together pretty much at the start of lockdown and the only reason I left was to return to work once it reopened.)
It is all too easy to feel restricted, particularly now that students have been asked "not to go to bars or other hospitality venues" this weekend, but I can only control my response, and that is to adhere to the request. I am exceedingly thankful that both of the governments I live under now allow couples to meet without distancing, even during these additional restrictions, and I will take advantage of this to keep my relationship going as well as possible. I am also thankful that I have two lovely flatmates, with whom I will be happy to isolate if the time comes.
I can only do what I can do!
