Memories, Crocuses and a Vaccine

It felt like a very strange day yesterday. So many emotions on what I thought was going to be a very happy day -- getting my Covid vaccine! 

As soon as my age group became eligible, I booked my appointment. It was about a week quicker to get into the Martensville clinic than Saskatoon so that's where I booked. This was also prior to the drive-thru clinic being opened in Saskatoon. 

As I headed out to Martensville, I started thinking about dad. I would often take him on short road trips to Martensville where we'd stop at Clearcut Coffee for a drink and goodie. On the way, we always pulled off at Ritchie Bros. Auction to have a look at what was in their yard. Today, there were lots of combines, seeders, sprayers, and construction equipment. 

As I arrived at the vaccination clinic, I realized I was feeling quite anxious. I'm not exactly sure why. I've gotten the flu vaccine for years and not even thought twice about it. Maybe all the hype (both positive and negative) about the Covid vaccine had more of a subconscious impact than I thought. 

Because I'd gotten there early, I went for a short walk to get some fresh air and calm down a bit. For a small town, Martensville has a remarkable series of walking paths and community facilities. 

Up until a couple days ago, the AstraZeneca vaccine had only been used in the drive-thru clinics and both Andrew and Penny had recently received the Pfizer vaccine in Saskatoon. I assumed that's what I would be getting as well. 

There's some debate over the AstraZeneca vaccine (long explanation which I'm not going to go into here) but the experts keep saying it's safe and to get whatever vaccine you're offered. Which I agree with 100%. 

However, when I was advised I'd be getting the AstraZeneca instead of the Pfizer, I have to admit that I was a bit annoyed. "That's disappointing," is what I said when the nurse told me. Even though the person at check in had already advised me and I'd had a bit of time to process it. 

Regardless, the process was smooth and I was in and out in about 25 minutes. 

Then it was off to Clearcut Coffee for a London Fog and oatmeal cookie. It's been so long since I've sat in a coffee shop! 

On the way home, just like when I was with dad, I took the road across to Warman (it's paved all the way now!) and back into the city, past Wanuskewin. 

I was still feeling "off" so immediately went out for a nice long hike by Sutherland Beach and past the Psych Centre. There were so many gorgeous crocuses out that I spent a bit of time taking photos. 

The remainder of the day and overnight, I was feeling the effect of the vaccine. Normally, I just have a sore arm but, this time, I was also feeling quite tired and had a splitting headache most of the night until I finally got up and took some Ibuprofen. 

Anyway, today is a new day. I'm still feeling tired but I'm grateful to finally be vaccinated. I'm looking forward to the days when the majority of people are also vaccinated and we can get back to a somewhat more "normal" existence.