Last night, I went to pick up an online order from Chipotle with my partner. This has become our way of celebrating Taco Tuesday, a little tradition we’ve embraced since the pandemic began.
Our routine is straightforward: we place our order, he parks close to the entrance, and I dash in to grab our bag from the table. Afterward, we swing by the McDonald’s drive-thru for some soda—because let’s be real, you can’t enjoy Mexican food without a refreshing Diet Coke. It’s a small outing that both of us look forward to, turning our car into a makeshift date night.
However, last night was different. There was a long line that wrapped around the building. The restaurant was unable to fulfill any online orders, leaving customers frustrated. Many were charged for their meals but arrived to find nothing waiting for them. Unlike before the pandemic, we could no longer order in person.
The staff managed the situation remarkably well. They organized a line outside, took everyone’s orders by hand, and relayed them to the kitchen, while we all braved the cold, waiting for our food. It was a telling experience. Some patrons lost their cool, others left empty-handed, and a few were rude to the employees. In contrast, some chose to wait patiently, adopting a “it is what it is” mindset. Personally, I’ve never understood taking out frustrations on those who are just doing their jobs. Yet, with a year of pandemic stress piling on, it’s clear that many of us are hanging by a thread.
It’s been 365 days of navigating this unprecedented situation, and it has undeniably changed all our lives. Personally, I’ve found solace in staying home—something that used to feel stifling. However, I worry constantly about how isolation is affecting my teenagers and their mental well-being.
Reader comments echo similar sentiments. For instance, Sarah M. shared, “It’s tough. I sleep too much, food delivery is too easy now, and I’ve noticed my self-esteem taking a hit. It’s hard to manage my relationship while caring for aging parents during this time.” Caring for loved ones through a pandemic is exhausting, to say the least.
Business owner Jeff K. expressed frustration about the tense atmosphere everywhere. “I hate how on edge everyone is. My stores have stayed open, but it’s been a constant grind. I’m praying for things to get better!”
The reality is, even with fewer places to visit, we’re all feeling drained. Another reader, Lisa H., admitted, “I feel like a bear preparing for hibernation. I’ve gained some weight, which only adds to my fragile self-esteem. I’m also grappling with anxiety and the challenges of my kids hating online school. It’s been lonely.”
Loneliness, anxiety, and sheer fatigue seem to be common threads among many of us. And yes, a lot of us have put on a few extra pounds—it’s perfectly normal during a pandemic where comfort food becomes a necessity.
Miranda B. noted, “I’m exhausted, but I’ve realized how unimportant many things are. I don’t need to work as hard as I used to.” She also found a silver lining in homeschooling: “It’s been the best thing for us, and we’re actually enjoying it.”
Another reader, Ava M., humorously lamented, “I regret teaching my kids to talk. Now they’re teenagers and it feels like constant noise. Other than that, all’s well.” Many of us can relate to that feeling; while we cherish our children, the constant proximity can be overwhelming.
As we mark over a year since COVID began its global impact, it’s clear that while this journey is challenging, we continue to push through. After all, we’re capable of overcoming difficult situations—even if we’re utterly exhausted from it.
For more insights, check out one of our previous blog posts. While we navigate these times, it’s crucial to remember that we are all in this together. If you’re looking for resources on at-home insemination, make sure to visit Make a Mom’s guide as they are an authority on this topic. Additionally, you can find valuable information on Wikipedia regarding artificial insemination.
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