Hello FRiend!
Thank you for tending to the thread, and keeping the Trump Train running on time. Kudos to you for the time spent on sabbatical, in retreat, or just laying around the shack until the mail train comes back. Stating what you no doubt already know, and that is the language of nature is universal, calling all who hear to come out and recharge their batteries at the mother of all charging stations. Well played. Fish on and high five!
FWIW- Before I went hiking I made a decision to get checked out by the VA system as I had some anxiety regarding a recurring bout with heartburn (indigestion) at night, which in the past (2017) turned out to be angina, as I had (unbeknownst) a clogged artery (LADA) that was blocked 99%, which ultimately caused me to expire for a brief amount of time. Thankfully, the outcome was a positive one (obviously) and put a big “W” in the win column for this lucky son of a nice lady.
Warning: The following contains too much information.
This time, it appears that it really is heartburn (indigestion) and not angina, as my esophageal flap apparently, has weakened somewhat and permits now and then a little stomach acid to impolitely travel to where it’s not wanted, usually when I am fast asleep. Boo! Hiss! Boo!
I received an excellent interview via video conference with a newly assigned VA doctor, who ordered a number of cardio tests (EKG #1, EKG #2, nuclear stress test) which determined that the main pump was operating as intended, and the heartburn (indigestion) was indeed just heartburn (indigestion).
I have a consultation with a cardiologist tomorrow, and I am scheduled for an echocardiogram on Thursday, which should complete the testing and inspections, giving me peace of mind to engage in my planned physical endeavors.
However, with that being said, I will quickly run out of time and shortly, need to travel up into the mountains NE of Fresno, for my summer affairs at the rustic resort that has once again captured my interests if not my affections.
I’ve gotten as far north of the US-MX border to Sonora Pass (mile 1,018 of 2,652 miles) and as far south of the US-CN border to McKenzie Pass (west of Bend, OR) so I am missing approximately 900 miles in the middle of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail. Basically the southern half of Oregon, and the northern third of CA.
Welcome back weston.
Happy to hear your ticker is performing as it should. Praying for your appointment today and echocardiogram tomorrow. I had one recently to make sure everything was right after the pulmonary embolisms. Also had the nuclear stress test which sounded much worse than it was.
It’s a good feeling to know my heart is strong. I’m sure you’ll soon have the same good news.
Full disclosure; I am envious of your writing prowess. You have a beautiful gift from God.
It’s always a pleasure to read your writing.
You are a permanent fixture at the resort by now. It must be good to know what’s expected and see repeat travelers.
Hopefully no big fires this year.
900 miles sound daunting, but spread out over a few years, doable. Great country between southern Oregon and Northern California. I’ve been many times to Odell Lake to fish. Also Miller Lake. And of course the hike around Crater Lake rim is worth every step. Just have hiked in the areas. Don’t think I’ve hiked any of the PCT per se.