Since Covid-19 has begun plaguing our world, we’ve been cooped up inside with no end to our own personal quarantine in sight. But what if, during this time of isolation, we had extenuating circumstances that made us rejoin the world for small amount of time? This happened to me when my grandfather sadly passed away, and we were asked to be present at the funeral. In Minnesota. So this week, I wanted to share with you my trip to Minnesota during the corona virus.
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The Airport
Time was not on our side as we looked at airplane ticket prices going sky high. My grandfather had been sick for a while now, but we didn’t expect him to die so suddenly. Then the news came that his funeral was coming soon after. So we realized, if we had any hope of getting to the funeral on time, we needed to fly. So, with credit cards ready, we got the tickets, and made out way to the nearest airport. My what a sight that was.
For once the traffic was manageable. For once TSA didn’t feel like 30 lanes of traffic being merged into one. For once the airport wasn’t so bad. There were a few of my favorite shops closed due to new store hours, but the airport felt more clean and organized than ever. And as we waited for the plane, adorned with masks, things seemed pretty normal. Apart from the fact that there were less than half of the usual people there.
The Plane Ride
Yes, the airport was quite empty. So my question is, how in the world was our plane stocked so full of people? Both the flight there and back felt similar to being in a can of sardines. That, combined with wearing a mask for the duration of the flight, made my claustrophobia rear its ugly head. But thankfully I was able to escape into my story worlds with the help of some choice music.
The only things that were noticeably different on this flight besides the fact that everyone was wearing masks, was that there were no in flight snacks or beverages served, and the plane had the aroma of a sterilized hospital. Thankfully both flights were pretty uneventful. And our essential oil + vitamin gummy combination did the trick to keep our immune systems ready for any covid or cold battles they might face.
Minnesota During The Corona Virus
Landing late Saturday night, we went to collect our rental car so go to the hotel. That sounds easy, but 45 minutes and four desks later, we finally got a different car than the one we ordered. Then, after driving on a scarcely populated freeway, we found the quaint hotel, and located the only store left open. We stocked up on water bottles for our short trip, and made it to bed by 2 o’clock in the morning.
The biggest trouble we had this entire trip, was finding things that were open. Most stores had significantly reduced hours, or simply no longer lived up to their “open 24 hours” sign. But we eventually managed to find the supplies we needed.
Minnesotans During Covid
The people of Minnesota really listened to the stay at home order. The first night we were there, as mentioned before, there was hardly anyone out. And if we did see anyone, they were wearing a mask. During our daily drives, we saw the people engaging in regular shopping and outdoor activities but keeping safe in the process.
When we saw family and friends at the funeral, though it was difficult, they stayed a safe distance or simply gave an elbow bump of sympathy. Really, the people all seem like they are taking this pandemic in strides.
That’s it!
Now that the trip is over, it’s interesting to look back and imagine how different this trip would have been without covid. A lot more hugs I’m sure. But even though it was a risk to go, we kept safe, and I’m glad we got to go see our family and friends in Minnesota during the corona virus.
Thank you so much for reading this addition to the Welcome To My Shoes Blog! I post every other Tuesday so be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss a thing. Don’t forget to share and comment on this post. I hope you come back again and continue reading my adventures as I explore the world one step at a time!
If You’re interested in another travel adventure, click here.
Interesting, the difference in attitude from Minnesota to Arizona where here so many are complaining about their rights being violated when having to wear a mask. Although I’m sure there are those up there who feel the same way, it sounds to me it’s not as prevalent as it is down here. I’m glad you got to go.