I'm Good to Go!

My doctor checked the hernia and said it didn't require surgery at this time unless I wanted it, and agreed that I could use an Ace Bandage (she even gave me two of them).  The big problem with the bandage is that it slips out of place and ends up tight around my waist, so I will look for an alternative.

She agreed that I could do most any kind of exercise, but cautioned me as to the amount of weight I lift, for example lifting two heavy suitcases.  I haven't been doing that kind of lifting and will be very careful about how I work out.  I am filled with joy!!!

I have a low red blood count which has been a lingering problem, and I take two iron tabs a day even so.  We went over some food choices, although discussing food nearly makes me ill - I am sick of eating, and by Noon I usually feel like I don't want another bite until the next day.

I also have a borderline thyroid problem, but I don't want to take medication for it so she said we will retest by the end of summer.  She knows how I feel about tests and specialists - they reduce the quality of my life!  My cholesterol is perfect!

It turns out my doctor is a backpacker herself, so I think she understands my eagerness to get out on the trail as well as to be physically prepared for it.

So I am good to go!  I'm signed up for a class in backpacking at REI on the 12th - it will likely be more for beginners but I can learn a lot since I haven't carried a pack for about 15 years.  I hope I can be smart about it as well as prepared to hit the trail, hopefully in late April or May.  There will still be snow in many areas, but I'll find an area without it!

Speaking of snow, I was driving home (east) on Fwy 50 and the beautiful snow topped Sierras came into view.  What a gorgeous sight, but then any mountain is pretty gorgeous to me.