The editor and his pup Emma have done what they can to get fresh air and stay sane during the pandemic. But now fully vaccinated, he’s hoping to explore more – with and without the mask. (CHARLENE KING)
THEEDITOR’SNOTE
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recently took my pup Emma to one of my favorite dog parks. It’s been a common trip for us during the pandemic, when I’ve rarely seen any friends or companions. It’s been Emma and me and essentially no one else. When we got to the park and started walking over from the parking lot, I slipped on a mask, something I’ve gotten used to in the past year-plus, but this was my first visit since I’ve been considered “fully vaccinated” (two weeks since receiving a second dose of the Pfizer vaccine). Per the Centers for Disease Control, I didn’t have to don a mask since I was outside and fully vaccinated. And I found it interesting that roughly half the dog park population – the humans, not the doggos – kept wearing masks (I took mine off when I was spread out from other people out of, I guess, courtesy). The point is: I’m not sure if we’re getting back to normal or not. But as summer beckons, I want to start considering normalcy. We probably need more vaccinations for those hesitant to get the shots. I know that like last summer I plan to head to Northern California and get in some fishing. Ditto getting to a baseball game to watch my beloved Oakland Athletics play. But I also want to travel again. I haven’t been on a plane over the course of the pandemic, but I have a feeling I’ll mask up and fly the somewhat friendly skies in the next few months. My sisters and I are thinking about a getaway to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (apparently the walleye and muskie fishing there is epic!). And a buddy is imploring me to head to Europe with him now that the continent is opening up for vaccinated American travelers. Who knows if I’ll be able to make it this summer. And while not everyone is on the vaccination train, those of us who are continue to be cautious – even outside at a dog park. But it’s also time to live again and I plan to do that. -Chris Cocoles calsportsmanmag.com | JUNE 2021 California Sportsman
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