Double Digits

 Days 9 and 10:

We are in the double digits! 

I think I can safely say this is the beginning of the end. 

Hallelujah!

Today also marked the day we needed to once again prove that we are covid free. 

Three days before boarding our Taiwan bound plane, we visited an Ohioan CVS. From the comfort of our car, we completed test 1. It was negative.

After debarking from the last of our three flights, we were ushered into a portable cubicle and asked to spit into a plastic cup. Five millimeters worth. It also was negative.

Today's test was a self-administered rapid test.

It brought back memories of my child bearing years. 

All the emotions of not knowing, but almost knowing.

This may seem silly to some of you. It's just a covid test,  right? Not life changing like finding out you are pregnant. Being covid positive in the US in nothing like being covid positive in Taiwan. All individuals testing positive are taken directly to the hospital, placed in an isolation room, and remain there until they can test negative on three consecutive tests. 

No window with a view. No deliveries of yummy treats from friends.  No comfy bed. No nice shower. No Uber Eats. Hospital food.  (Need I go on?)

 It's not life changing, but it certainly would not be fun. And, to be honest, I am just ready to be home. So, yes, I got a little shaky. Of course, anytime you shove something up your own nose shakiness is a possibility.

Throughout the last nine days, my mind kept going back to the lady in the South Korea airport who kept sniffling and blowing her nose. What if? 

After swabbing, twirling, squeezing, dripping, and waiting, the test was complete. Once again, I was negative.

(Insert sigh of relief)

In two days, we get to go on a field trip. A special taxi will pick us up at the hotel and transport us to the closest hospital. There, the fourth and final covid test will be administered. If that also proves to be negative, we will be allowed to check out at 12:01 am Saturday.

Oh, what a glorious day that will be!