It’s been five years since Virginia reported its first COVID-19 case—a moment that changed our lives, making us more isolated, a little weirder, and maybe even sadder.
Why It Matters?
Even though most Americans have moved on, some changes have stuck around.
For Virginians who lost loved ones—friends, family, and soulmates—the grief hasn’t faded.
Students are still struggling with learning losses that once put Richmond in the national spotlight.
Daycare costs forced some parents out of work, grocery prices remain high ($5 eggs, anyone?), and buying a home now requires nearly half a million dollars.
Some of our favorite restaurants are gone forever, while others are still fighting to stay open.
Zoom in:
Toilet paper shortages and the sound of a dry cough will never feel the same.
And who could forget our DIY haircuts?
But, it wasn’t all bad:
- Many of us picked up baking, and some never stopped.
- Daily walks became a go-to cure for everything—and they still are.
- We got to know our neighbors and helped each other out.
- Outdoor dining became a thing, and cocktails to-go are now permanent.
We also travel more—by train, plane, cruise, or car.
Working from home in pajamas is normal, and masks when sick don’t seem strange anymore.
What We Wish Would Return?
Six-foot distancing in grocery stores. No need to get so close to the Lombardy Kroger checkout line.
Less traffic on I-95 and I-66.
What Stuck Around (and People Aren’t Thrilled About):
QR codes replacing real menus.
Zoom and Microsoft Teams.
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