My neighbor got signed up for her Pfizer covid19 shot and gave me the number so I could, too. I couldn’t get through. All I ever got was the fast busy signal that tells me the system was over-loaded. Then she said she got registered, and her appointment was Wednesday, 27 Jan, at 8:50 in the morning at the local fair grounds. Could I take her?  Sure.

So we left a tad early, and got to the fair grounds at 8:30. And from the judging of it, we were a couple hours too late. We were almost at the end of the line.

I have to admit, it was well organized, we drove two by two down one parking aisle, then up the next, and after doing this for an hour or so, we got to a human. She asked if we were both registered, “She is,” I pointed to neighbor, “I’m just hoping they’ll have more.” She laughed and said I’d be fine. After about 30 more minutes, we approached a couple young GIs (Army -National Guard?), they gave me a form to complete, and sent us to follow directions of where to park car. I get my flu shot every year from the pharmacist, and I can always tell if he was military—better at giving shots 😉

With both windows rolled down, we each got our jab. First jab of two. Being the old Fartess that I am and having spent the 9 years 5 months 23 days (but, who’d counting?) in the military that I did, I’ve had my fair share of jabs, shots, and vaccinations. I’m here to tell you the Army (probably all military) medics do the best job. The least amount of pain—both for shot and after-pain. Alas, any reactions one has is not their cause. Of course, it probably helps that I’m not afraid of needles and my arm is totally relaxed.

So, this cute young GI (I may be on a diet, but I can certainly read the menu!) came to me, rubbed my arm with alcohol or something equally cold, and it was over before I knew it. I was watching as the needle went in. I NEVER FELT IT! If you’re hesitating at all, stop. Get the shot. And if your governor has activated your National Guard to give them at mass inoculation sites, get in line! Eye candy to go along with a life-saving jab 😉

The only time I felt the shot, was if I tried to do an impression of Red Skelton with his Gertrude and Heathcliff seagulls. Now, my understanding is, the second shot gives both extra protection, and some extra and temporary effects for 24-48 hours. I can live with that. You can, too.

Outro:

I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, and I do believe it’s sunshine, not an on-coming engine! Yes, I’ll probably have to wear the masks for a few mor months. Yes, it will probably be end of summer before we are back to normal, but normal (if we can remember what it is) is closer now than when we started this rodeo. But when it’s over, there’s inside restaurant dining to look forward to, road trips, visits with friends and family. Yee-haw! We’re on our way!!!

Stay safe, stay healthy, for Auntie Lenora and Sammy Brave Dog, if we’re the reason you need.