In March I got the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine.. I qualified early in Florida because I work in education. So I went the second day I was eligible. Thankfully my youngest brother also works in education, so we were able to go together so we could hang out together while we were being observed.

Dose 1

The FEMA site I went to was super quick. I have had allergic reactions to antibiotics, so I had to wait in the 30 minute high risk observation area, and it still only took 45 minutes total, walking from the car, signing in, vaccine, observation, walking back to the car. It was great.

After the first dose, I had a sore arm. It felt like I ran into a doorway or something and had a bruised arm, so something that isn’t out of the ordinary for me because I am a walking bruise.

Dose 2

The process for my second dose was just as easy and again took about 45 minutes start to finish, including 30 minutes of observation.

But dammmmnn the side effects for the second dose came for me hard. Of course I kept a timeline, so I’ll share that below. Just know that none of is was unbearable, just uncomfortable and annoying.

My suggestions for anyone who is preparing to get their second vaccine dose: make sure your favorite pajamas/comfy clothes are clean, shower before your vaccine appointment just in case you are too tired to shower for a couple days, have Gatorade available, I was so thirsty and after a while water just didn’t seem to help, so I switched to Gatorade for a few hours and that helped. Have some easy snacks/meals so you don’t have to work hard for food. Put clean sheets on your bed, and wash your favorite couch blanket(s). Basically prepare to hibernate in the event your side effects are shitty. And if you end up not experiencing the side effects, fuck off, and enjoy your clean and cozy home.

Please enjoy these pictures of me being miserable. 1. Drinking coffee outside in a hoodie and uggs to warm up, 2. Hiding under all of my favorite blankets to stay warm, 3. Drinking more water/Gatorade, knowing I will pee 3 times an hour and might as well just curl up in a blanket pile in the tub.

Despite a few days of discomfort, I would 100% do it again if I needed to. Getting the vaccine is our path forward toward a new normal that includes seeing people and going on planes. I cannot wait to hug my friends, sit next to a stranger on a train in Europe, and people watch during a busy brunch with bottomless mimosas.

If you are able, I hope you will get vaccinated and soon. Check your local vaccine availability and talk to your doctor if you have questions or are unsure about getting the vaccine. And get excited about heard immunity.

**Disclaimer** I am not a medical professional. I am sharing my experience receiving the Covid-19 Pfizer vaccine. You should always seek medical advice from a medical professional, and your experience with the Covid-19 vaccine may be different. For more information, contact your physician or read what the CDC has to say on the topic here.