By Mike De Felice

Special to Kitsap Daily News

These COVID-19 times have impacted our lives in many ways and have us doing things differently – working remotely, wearing face masks, not shaking hands, and going down a grocery aisle in a particular direction.

At some point, things should “get back to normal.”

We set out to find what is the first thing people want to do once life returns to normal? Here’s how some area folks answered that question:

“I want to see and hug my elderly mother who I have not been able to see for months because she has a compromised immune system. Mom only has a flip phone without video capability, so we have not been able to see her.” — Rene Forman-Winn, Port Orchard

“Get my hair done and have a pedicure.” — Monica Ackerman, Normandy Park

“Go to “MackleDonald’s” [McDonald’s] and get a “hangaber” [hamburger] and fries.” – 4-year-old Ellie, who is Ackerman’s daughter

“To eat sweet and sour chicken and fried rice with my friends at Simon’s restaurant” -–

South Kitsap High School graduating senior Gabe Winn, Port Orchard

“Just as the shutdown was happening, we moved into a new house, so we look forward to finally having a housewarming party with family and friends.” — Erica Dickinson, Port Orchard

“My son works at the shipyard, so the family is currently under a DOD travel ban. I look forward to traveling to Utah to see and hold my 5-year-old granddaughter.” – Michelle Jameson, Port Orchard.

“To move into a dorm room, have a roommate and go to in-person classes during my freshman year at Washington State University.” — South Kitsap High School graduating senior Maxine Winslow, Olalla

“I look forward to going to a theater, sitting back with popcorn and a Diet Coke and enjoying a movie.” – Karen Sprague, West Seattle

“Taking the ferry from Port Townsend to Coupeville on Whidbey Island and going out on the view deck to watch for dolphins and enjoy the beautiful scenery.” – Bevileane Gabry, Port Orchard

“I look forward to seeing my 82-year-old dad in-person in Olalla. We missed his birthday so we will do a family potluck when we finally see him again.” – Jessica Myette, Port Orchard

“To restart our Sunday night family dinners with my 82-year-old aunt. She has underlying health issues so we have not been able to visit her. The first dinner will we have will be her favorite — chicken and dumplings.” – Chris Bock DMD, Gig Harbor

“I want to get back to the gym! I miss my CrossFit workout of powerlifting and cardio.” – 17-year-old South Kitsap High graduate Logan Anchick, Port Orchard

“I am a huge Seahawk fan. I love ‘em! I can’t wait to get back to CenturyLink Field and watch the Hawks take down the 49ers!” – Mindy Stearns, Port Orchard

“To tee-up at my favorite golf course in Cabo and after the round sipping on a jalapeno margarita on the beach.” – the writer of this article