"The United States has now surpassed 350,000 Covid-19 deaths, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.” CNN

“The United States remains the nation worst hit by the pandemic, with the world's highest caseload and death toll, accounting for more than 24 percent of the global cases and over 19 percent of the global deaths. U.S. COVID-19 deaths increased by over 50,000 in 19 days after it hit 300,000.” John Hopkins University

“Across the country, Covid-19 vaccinations are happening at a slower pace than expected.
More than 12.4 million vaccine doses have been distributed nationwide but only 2.7 million doses have been administered, according to data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.” CNN

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It’s difficult to stay optimistic, but somehow, we must. Maybe 2022 will finally be a "normal" year again… Maybe… Unless the pandemic is brought under control by a combination of effective vaccinations going into arms - plus a change in human behavior - 2021 will not be the year that everyone was hoping for. However, "normal" surely will someday return for those not destroyed by this pandemic. Yes, surely someday...

Meanwhile, above is a new photo for the day. Being outside at least got me some fresh air.