I think the Government suggested this “Christmas Bubble” because they knew people would mix anyway.
I’m genuinely despairing of how a large percentage have behaved.
We made the decision, before the announcement, not to travel from Liverpool to North Berwick, Scotland, for Christmas. Our DD SIL and GC (6&3) haven’t seen us since they came here in February for DH birthday.
SIL is a Consultant Anaesthetist, and although tested weekly, is a potential vector. The GCs attend school and nursery, so again, potential vectors.
We decided that as it’s only one Christmas and we will all be protected by the vaccine soon, the sacrifice is worth it. SIL was vaccinated yesterday!
It’s been harrowing not seeing them. A year, especially to the youngest who was only 3 in September is a huge chunk of her life and we miss them terribly, particularly as DH had major surgery in August, which I had to manage alone.
But look, the vaccine is here, if we all just keep away until protected, the suffering and deaths will be much fewer.
We’re willing to do it. That’s what we based our decision on.