Year Two (for crying out loud!) of the freaking coronavirus pandemic. Sure, it seems to be trending in the right direction, and many more people have been vaccinated against Covid-19, including my bride and me. But it is far from over, and I choose to listen to the experts, who say that the effects of the new variant strains could launch another surge. Not to mention potential super-spreader events, such as the spring breakers in Florida and elsewhere.

Some optimists—or deniers—seem to think we’re getting back to “normal.” Tell the truth, I don’t want to get back to “normal,” if “normal” includes mass shootings such as what we’ve witnessed over the past couple of weeks. It would be tragic if we’ve learned nothing from the trials of the past year-plus.

One good thing, I suppose: subsequent to receiving my second vaccination at the end of February, I have ventured out of the quarantine cave a number of times (still double-masked). I’ve been to my optometrist, my dermatologist, and my dentist, and I’ve taken my venerable Chevy in for a tune-up. Yeah, I know…nothing too exciting, but necessary.

However, the best is yet to come. Later this week—barring the unforeseen—Jacqueline and I will be at Petco Park for the San Diego Padres’ opening day! Moving to a less restrictive tier in our county will allow about 8,000-10,000 fans in for this initial homestand, and our season ticket longevity includes us among the chosen.

Ah, the simple pleasure of attending a baseball game. This kind of “normal” I can live with, ya know? GO PADRES!