The coronavirus pandemic has altered nearly every facet of our lives: the way we work, learn, parent, eat, socialize and more. The many changes weve undergone have caused us to reflect on life before COVID-19. We now find ourselves longing for the simple moments, interactions and experiences we never gave much thought before.

As we look back on the last year, we asked people to share the specific things they miss that they took for granted in their pre-pandemic lives. Heres what they told us:

1. Sitting on a plane, hours into a long flight

Thats the point where youre completely disconnected from the world, munching on complimentary biscuits and watching the third movie you didnt get to see in theaters. Jen Ruiz , travel blogger at Jen On A Jet Plane

2. Going to kids parties and events

I used to complain about another school fundraiser pizza night or the money involved with that dance recital. Now I miss it all. I want to stand shoulder to shoulder with other parents, trying to get the perfect photo. I want to pay $3 a slice for a piece of cold Costco pizza to benefit my kids school. Bring me all the birthday parties. Samantha Scroggin , parenting blogger at Walking Outside In Slippers

3. That feeling you get right when a concert begins

When youve been waiting for the band to start, and everyone is getting restless and excited. Then, at last, the lights dim, the guitarist strikes a warm-up chord and suddenly everyone is on their feet cheering. Adrienne Hedger, illustrator at Hedger Humor