Last night my friend Kelly called me with some very real concerns she had about my heat rash from Tuesday. She encouraged me to go see a doctor friend of hers. She didn’t like the look of my pictures, and wanted to just remind me of the risk of Lyme Disease. Now, I’m pretty sure the rash was heat rash because it went away almost by the next day with the help of a cold shower and some Gold Bond, and there was zero patterning to it.
Plus, I’m generally healthy, BUT I have noticed a distinct difference in my energy level from last year to this year.
I assumed it was just me getting a little older and a little slower, plus my eating habits in order to pack on the pounds had had me chewing on less than healthy items from time to time. So, I figured, once on trail, my mind clear, once I’m not trying to balance my social life, with my work life, with my training, with my art and music and writing pursuits, etc…. I’d be back on track and hitting it hard.
This year though, I have been very tired and fatigued to say the least. It’s been more difficult than ever to stay on track. Going to bed early and getting up early sometimes seems impossible. And some nights, I just don’t sleep well. It is what it is. Life is chaotic and I’m no spring chicken.
To be honest, it has actually crossed my mind to go get a check up and test for Lyme since I’m constantly outdoors, but I’m stubborn. Plus, I’m not a fan of health care. Pretty much the only doctor I see is my gynocologist. I guess one is better than none. So, sorry Kelly, but I will probably not find time to get in to see the doctor and test for Lyme before I leave. I only have about a week left to finish prep, and my time is precious right now. Not that my health isn’t as well, but… I promise I will start going once a year and have that checked as soon as I get back.
On a brighter note, I’m out walking the bridge again this morning. The weather is perfect, but as usual it’s pretty hot too. I can’t stay out here too long though, since I managed to lock myself out of my apartment when I left. Just as I was shutting the door behind me I realized my keys were on my drafting table. Good job Cindy-jo. This is a testament to how tired I was when leaving this morning. But I have to admit I like to lock myself out at least once a year. Ugh. Good thing my neighbors rock and the condo manager has a spare and lives in the complex. Thanks Mick and Doug!!! Otherwise I’d be seriously whining right now, but nobody needs to see or hear that. Truly.
Gear check in. I finally got my new compass and bear bell. Posted that on Facebook the other day. Also, I ordered another pair of my Oboz Women’s Sawtooth Low hiking shoes, and some Leukotape. I like the sports tape I use now, but the Leukotape has been mentioned a bunch of times in videos I’ve been watching online recently. The only thing is in the more medical videos they mention a solution that preps the effectiveness of the tape’s adhesion. Somehow you use that before putting it on the foot. Not sure I’m going to go that far, but I will test it out without it and see what I think. If I have to overnight the solution, I will, but I’m guessing it’s not totally necessary since many of the hiking videos only mention the tape, not the prep solution in addition. Ah, the many last minute gear choices and issues! I’m running out of time for such nonsense. Time for the trail already!
it’s another beautiful day people. Get out there and hike! Or bike. Or whatever it is you do!
