I could live without the masks, but I completely agree about hand shakes going away. Somehow, I feel like hugs (sans cheek kiss) are less germy, but that could just be wishful thinking. Just, you know, hold your breath while leaning into the hug, and then breath again once you're behind my face, then reverse it out. Science by Jen.

I'm not a big hugger, but I've been getting extra hugs from ltc and TCG because even I miss other people right now.

Tea: I think I'll be using masks, especially in flu season, from now on, and I'm definitely done with hand shakes. Live long and prosper from now on from me.

Part of his feeling on continued mask use is from living in Japan for years. Not every day, but at least when traveling or at risky events. eta: My doctor does seem to feel that general boosting of immunity via supplements and healthy life choices does make a difference for contracting viruses as well as the hand washing and masks.

Live long and prosper from now on from me.

To my great consternation, I cannot do the Vulcan hand thing. I've tried, practiced, taken tips. My fingers just won't work that way. Makes me so sad.

Oatmeal:

I did not know you lived in Japan for years. For work? Because why not? For love? Did you like it? ::props chin on hands, elbows on table::

I did not know that about Laura either!

Oh, I didn't. DH lived there several years because his dad was in the Air Force. He didn't live on base and even spent months living on a farm there in a student exchange thing. His dad spoke the language and tutored English to corporate exec types.

I wish! I keep encouraging him to reach out to his old friends and for us to visit one day.

His dad was determined that if they were going to live abroad that they get the full experience, so he also lived in a regular village in Germany too. He only lived on base when they were in the US.