Summer’s just around the bend. At long last, we can collectively exhale in anticipation — and hope — that Summer 2021 will be different from Summer 2020. Here’s to rediscovering old places, delighting in new ones and reconnecting with friends and family with greater appreciation as we recapture time lost and settle into a new normal that just might be better than before.
Yearning to bond
So much time lost. So many of us wanting to gather with loved ones again. What’s it been like and where do we go from here? Julia Prodis Sulek describes the longing to reconnect after more than a year in pandemic isolation, as hearts swell with hope. And, with Memorial Day upon us and pandemic restrictions being lifted, many are anxious to re-embrace their summer traditions. Family reunions on the beach. Backyard barbecues. Block parties. Maybe even a parade.
Our new normal
With the pandemic turning our lives upside down, our social life has taken quite a hit. How has it changed, what have we done to adapt, and what pandemic habits have become new social norms? Not to mention that for many, anxiety still lingers. And, of course, let’s not forget those ever so important social guidelines we should heed as we return to some semblance of normalcy. Martha Ross explains all this and more with tips on how to deal with those awkward social situations.
Shows, lights, action
So we really can finally go out and enjoy concerts, theaters and other fun things? Jim Harrington says yes. We explore what to expect as we return to in-person entertainment and learn what we can look forward to this summer.
Alfresco anyone?
As restaurants adapt to the pandemic mode of dining, more people are expected to continue feasting outdoors — a trend likely to remain — at least through the near future as many are still dealing with unprecedented changes in staffing, safety, menus, hours and business models necessitated by COVID-19 rules. And those popular parklets that became omnipresent during the pandemic, have you ever wondered just how they get built? We tell you how here in a Q&A with an expert.
Retail rebound
For the past year, retail stores — large and small –– have been forced to become creative to stay afloat, trying new ideas that they hope attract customers to return. And, while the pandemic left many stores reeling, there has been a bit of a silver lining ” Marisa Kendall tells us what it is and what’s in and what is out.
Staying Covid-safe
Sure, many restrictions are lifted, but there are definitely precautions you should be mindful of as you travel and venture out this summer, as Lisa Krieger writes. Should you travel? And how?
Emily DeRuy also explains how the pandemic has affected our health –– physical, mental and emotional and how to move forward from here.
And, ouch, that chair, laptop and makeshift desk. So many sudden aches and pains as we work from home. Maggie Angst interviews an expert who shares her tips on how to improve our work space.
Coming Wednesday
Let’s play ball — and cricket
Jon Becker recounts what parents — and players — missed most about playing ball, as Elliott Almond describes how the pandemic affected the passionate game of cricket in the Bay Area.
…Plus
Festivals and fairs — yes, some of our old favorites will be back, albeit in a different mode in certain cases…and others, unfortunately, won’t. Let’s find out what. And, learn the inventive ways festival organizers are planning for the coming summer.
