Are we there yet? Taking small steps on road back to normality

If lockdown was a long-haul flight, this week would be the bit when the air stewardess comes round with the hot, lemon-scented towels for freshening up before landing. After endless hours cooped up in a flying tin can, it’s the point when passengers come tantalisingly close to stretching their legs and breathing fresh air again.

We’ve had 10 weeks of social distancing, but it feels like the end is in sight as we officially move into phase one of Scotland’s road map back to normality.

It’s only a baby step but being able to meet other “households” makes a huge difference in our family.

As a mum to an only child, it’s been heartbreaking seeing my son pine for his playmates, so being able to see his cousins again is a godsend.

The toughest thing has been the feeling of being so close yet so far from those you love.

You only have to look at the lengths people have gone to stay connected, from Zoom parties to bands putting on free video concerts, to see how important human contact is.

TV chef Rick Stein is doing his best to stay in touch with fans by giving cookery lessons online while in lockdown in Australia.

When P.S. caught up with him (pages 6&7) he admitted he’s enjoying the slower pace of life right now, but is longing to come home to his native Cornwall.

Of course, it’s no hardship being stranded in such a glamorous location, but I can relate to that feeling of limbo. I can’t wait for the day we land back in the land of the living.