Hey, friend. ??
The internet connection has become increasingly unstable here in the isolation ward. I’ve had to have the last two posts on draft mode because they simply wouldn’t post to the blog but they should be showing now.
Just another reminder that I’m officially back in China. ??♀️
The Blood Draw ?
This morning, the last test was taken. The nurse came in and, once again, extracted blood from my hand. I have very small veins so when they’re not able to get the veins in my arm to cooperate, they’ve been able to get them from my wrist and/or the visible veins on the front of my right hand.
NO NAT TESTS OR ORAL SWABS TODAY! Yay!
That was a pleasant surprise, friend. I had my ‘lil nostrils all ready to be invaded by yet another long Q-tip but nope…not today! ??????
The Doc’s Explanation About the Additional 14-Day Quarantine
Yesterday, I said that I would share the group chat message about why I had to stay in another quarantine hotel for 14 days in Xiamen and not be allowed to return to Dalian after leaving the hospital. The internet wouldn’t cooperate and I started getting frustrated so I shut everything down and went to sleep.
Today it’s a bit better. Here’s the convo:
The “Bright” Side
Honestly, friend, the more I think about having to be here in Xiamen for an additional two weeks during the winter season, the more “at peace” I am. Dalian – the city of romance (that’s what it’s called) – is so beautiful…and cold.
Since I’m not a huge fan of the cold, I don’t mind remaining in Xiamen for an additional few weeks during this extremely cold season in Dalian.
As long as I get to do it in a hotel.
With windows.
And some sign of life outside of the 4 walls that I’ll be inside of.
Usually, I can find the positives in dark situations. I hope I never lose this ability and gift because it has definitely been put to use pretty much non-stop for the past 16 days.
? On Repeat Today ?
Friend, I needed some internal sunshine and music for my soul today. I dug into my lyrical archives, searched for some NOLA flavor, and brought out an old fave of mine that I hadn’t listened to in quite some time.
PJ Morton al rescate!
Track 9: Everything’s Gonna Be Alright (featuring the Hamiltones).
Talk about a mood lifter! All my music heads back home know what I’m talking about. Old school funk with new school feel.
What’s Next?
The next thing will be to hear back from the nurse this evening about my blood test results and hopefully being released tomorrow.
As soon as I know, friend, you’ll know. ❤️
Keeping hope alive…
Charity