Don't get me wrong, staying at home has had its perks [1], but I don't think I'll ever have another Friday night in once social distancing is up. I value human interaction way too much, plus, I've watched just about every good Netflix show out there [2] to justify a night of no plans. I miss jam-packed days of beach trips, bonfires, good conversation, and even better company. I miss sporadically meeting friends after work for a baseball game or going to the gym [3] and sparking up conversation with my fitness instructor. Better yet, I miss real-life happy hours (remember those?). It's the little things, really. I know our new normal might last for a while longer and doesn't adhere to my dreamy bucket-list plans [4], but hey, a girl can hopefully look ahead, right? Because the day when we can all be together again will come. Here are 39 things I can't wait to do once social distancing is over.
Go on a Date
Like a real-life date where you can flirt and touch, not a FaceTime date [6].
See My Family
If you're social distancing from family [7], you know what I mean.
Hang Out With Friends, Friends, and More Friends!
I miss all the fun things we do together.
Give Someone a Hug
Because we all could use a hug after staying at home.
Throw or Attend a Party
When social distancing is over, we obviously need to celebrate!
Eat at a Restaurant
I can't wait to get out there, support local businesses, and eat good food!
Go to a Bar
Having a drink to commemorate a strange time sounds good to me.
Attend All the Weddings
If you've known of a wedding or two that's been rescheduled, you're not alone. All couples deserve to have their day and be celebrated!
Hang at the Beach
Most beaches and parks are closed to the public, but once they reopen, you know I'll be there catching some rays.
Go on a Trip
Whether it's 30 minutes away or a weekend adventure in the mountains, a trip sounds like a dream right now.
Fly Somewhere
Like, literally anywhere. Getting away to explore, sightsee, and discover is everything I need.
Actually GO to Work
I didn't realize I'd miss the act of going to my job until it was no longer an option.
Put on Makeup
Because the last time I wore makeup [8] was . . . a long time ago.
Wear Jeans
I've worn leggings and sweats every day while social distancing, and as lovely as it's been, I look forward to wearing real pants again.
Go Hiking
I hike locally, but it's always fun to discover a public trail somewhere new!
Attend an In-Person Workout Class
As amazing as online fitness classes [9] are, I miss the energy and vibe of an in-person workout class.
Visit a Winery
Napa is practically calling my name.
Go to a Concert
Live music, I miss you.
Go to a Sporting Event
Baseball games, football games — you name it, I'm there.
Hang Out at a Park
I run by parks all the time, and it's such a tease! All I want to do is lie in the grass and chat with friends.
Go to the Movies
Buttery movie-theater popcorn sounds delicious.
Visit Yosemite
I had plans to explore the national park before stay-at-home orders were in place, and I can't wait to reschedule.
Pet Someone Else's Dog
I'm petting all the dogs once social distancing is up.
Go to Brunch!
Bottomless, anyone?
Go Camping
There's nothing better than a night under the stars.
Play a Sport
Pickup games are always so fun.
Go Tubing
Tubing down a river with friends? I'm in.
Have a Real-Life Happy Hour
Zoom happy hours are great and all, but cheersing over drinks and appetizers is more my style.
Attend a Music Festival
There's nothing that screams "freedom" more than thousands of people dancing in a field.
Go Boating
Sure, you can boat by yourself, but I personally need a captain and crew.
Have a Beach Fire
The best days are the ones spent oceanside with all my friends.
Sit in a Coffee Shop
It's true, I miss the act of physically sitting in a coffee shop.
Go to a Comedy Show
OK, so I've never been to a comedy show, but it's on my to-do list!
Reconnect With an Old Friend
There's nothing more nostalgic than catching up with an old pal.
Get My Nails Done
I almost always have bare nails, but I'm ready for a change.
Watch a NEW Season of The Bachelorette
I was so excited for Claire's season of The Bachelorette [10], but it was rightfully paused due to COVID-19 [11]. Once things get back to normal, I look forward to a new cast of (slightly) older men.
Go Shopping
I've had my fair share of online retail therapy, but I'm ready for some in-store purchases.
Get My Hair Colored
My roots may or may not be past my ears.
Use Public Transportation
OK, I'm kidding. No one misses using public transit.