Shielding to be paused on August 1st

A observation I have discovered during my time shielding... only other shielding people fully understand shielding people.
I've heard countless comments such as, "well, It's for your own good", "at least you won't catch it!", "you get to stay at home and don't have to go to work"

Well, here's some news... most people who are shielding would much rather be at work, would much rather be able to do their own shopping instead of burdening others with the responsibility. It's not like we're at home but we can just pop out if we feel like it! We CANNOT leave home.. Just put the shoes on and think about that for a minute, think about the effect that may have on someone's mental health.

Needless to say I was over the moon when "our Boris" announced that shielding would be paused from August the 1st in England.
That's not to say I am in any kind of rush to go anywhere in particular (except to the pub for a pint) *joking*, but knowing that that freedom of choice is now once again in my control or will be very soon, lifts an unbelievably heavy weight from my shoulders.

I've counted this morning the number of books that I have read since been told I have to shield and it's rocking in at a staggering 14!! I've thoroughly enjoyed reading every single one and find myself actually missing the characters... Hmmm what was I saying about the pub and a pint lol..

So today is our wedding anniversary... Three years ago we said "I do" infront of our family and dearest friends.. It's been a very quick three years and only feels like yesterday. But I wouldn't change Mr Tingle for the world, he's most definitely my absolute rock, and he knows when to give me the kick up the butt and motivation I need if I'm having a day when I feel like the whole world is against me. He works so hard and he truly is my world.

So what will I be doing with my new found freedom come Aug 1st ..... I will be trying to slowly build back the confidence to go a shop, to interact with other people, to hug and squeeze my family whom I have missed seeing so very much,  to feel 'normal' again, what ever 'normal' is.
Will I be taking precautions? of course I will. The virus hasn't disappeared just because shielding is paused! In fact I don't think that Covid-19 in its entirety will disappear for a very long time. 

But for now... To those of you reading this who are shielding enjoy your new found freedom albeit safely... to everyone else, stay safe, follow the new rules, they're there for a reason!

Shez xxx