Processed to leave....

Hi all, just a quick update.....
Got a call from the med group folks this morning that I was a "high priority" status for departure and was to get over to the processing center with bags packed. Turns out the info was bad -- I didn't need my bags because there still is no plane-- but I am now processed and somewhat ready to go. Actually, I've been driving around with my suitcase in the back for two days now and I'm still not gone, but at least I have green wristbands with our passenger numbers (17 and 18!) to show for it! We've been told to go home and wait until we're notified it's time to leave. Hopefully that call won't come at midnight tonight, but hey, if it does, we're ready! For some odd reason, they've paired what they consider the two highest priority groups together on the same plane -- pregnant people, and sick people (??!!) When I pointed this out to Rick, worried that I'm in an infectious state right now (with a still yet unknown lung infection that's pummeled me for the last 6 months) he replied, "try not to cough" (sorry, hon, but it is a 10 or so hour plane ride!) Oh well...will don a mask and hope for the best....

So stay tuned, for word from myself or hopefully Rick that I am on my way. We were told today that they are hoping (planning?) to send flights to Seattle/Tacoma airport where we'll then join a processing line to figure out where we're going from there. I listed my desired destination as Hill Air Base/Salt Lake City hoping to open up some opportunities for us to get there faster. Then, once stateside, we'll somehow be notified that the State Department's given the "all clear" signal, and we're to make our way back somehow (using a paid-for plane ticket) to SeaTac, where will hop another chartered flight back to Misawa. The order right now is for "no more than 30 days"--which sounds good to me. It's a logistical nightmare and I can't believe they've done all this in such a short time. They really have done an incredible job, and I have confidence that we'll be taken care of.

So that's all for now -- going to go try and catch a little sleep before the big trip. Wish me luck!