Hiking, Christmas, and Vertigo

Finally got back on the trail when my daughter and her husband arrived on Friday morning.  Even though this is a fairly easy hike, which I have done several times, I was very pleased that my hip, knee and old age in general, cooperated enough to get me up and down the 5 mile trail to the Cascades and the upper falls. We started with the upper falls, passing some icicles along the way.

This was our grand dog, Stark’s, first hike – he seemed to like it.

Then we started down to the lower falls.

Starting out it was a little chilly, but we had periods of sunshine and it warmed up as the day wore on. All in all a very good hike.

Christmas Eve was full of food, games, lights, presents and grand dog in sweater.

It was all wonderful, until I woke up Christmas morning feeling like I was having the worst hangover of my life (when I had only had one drink the day before).  After our company left, I spent the day in bed, totally miserable – dizzy and nauseous.  If you have ever experienced vertigo, you know it is NOT fun! I’m going on my 3rd day of living upstairs (I did make it from our bedroom to my office next door).  With the help of my wonderful, patient husband, I was able to take a quick shower this morning.  But as I sit here writing this, I’m thinking it’s time to climb back into bed.

My little house guest and my daughter’s Christmas present helped get me through the last couple of days.  I would have been very bored without them.

I’ve enjoyed reading all your holiday posts.  I wish you all a happy and healthy New Year!!

 

Absent Hiker

It’s been too long since I’ve been on a trail, I hope to remedy that by the end of the year. The fires are out thanks to some much needed rain, but my body is not cooperating with my desire to be in the woods.

About 3 weeks ago, I injured my right hip while attempting the very daring task of descending to our basement.  Not sure how I got twisted on the stairs, but I had to be helped into a chair, given lots of Ibuprofen and an ice bag.  Since then, the slightest turn can set off the pain.  I believe the fact that I have knee issues (left knee) has made my right side vulnerable, so it was just a matter of time.

I’m exercising and stretching daily, and seem to be getting stronger, but have unfortunately missed out on some perfect hiking weather.  Now it’s cold.

Not really looking for sympathy, just letting you know I have not abandoned hiking or blogging.

Wishing all of you a very happy holiday season – whatever you celebrate!