Randy and I returned from the Hill Country of Texas recently, and in a week we are off to explore the coast of California from Los Angeles to Shelter Cove. I’ve never been on Hwy 1, or seen the dramatic coastline of California. No time like the present! We are seeing friends and even some family along the way, and also spending some time at Lake Tahoe…and of course, I find myself worrying a little about Randy.
The Hill Country was fun, but for Randy, there is much to consider. As a double lung transplantee at 9 months post, there are issues that must be planned for. We need to be sure he has all of his medicine, and plenty of masks to keep out germs or pollution, or whatever. I wanted to go rafting on the Guadalupe, but ended up not doing it for fear of Randy falling in. Randy is immuno-suppressed so his body won’t reject his new lungs, but this opens up other dangers of infection and illness. He is not permitted in lakes or rivers, but he is allowed in the ocean. Now, what about Alpine lakes and rivers? I’ll have to research that. Besides, I’m the one who falls out of rafts and boats, not Randy. I’m sure he can stay inside the vehicle, so to speak.
Randy is 50 times more likely than you or I to get skin cancer. Yes, you heard me correctly. 50 TIMES MORE LIKELY. That is downright scary. And anyone who knows Randy knows how much he loves the sun. This is a guy who loves to lie in the sun, basking, without sunscreen. He cannot do that anymore. His skin is paper thin, any time he bumps into something or scrapes against something, he is injured. Band aids are necessary items, along with antibacterial wipes. A friend who is a diver and a quadriplegic familiar with infection risk recommended we carry the same soap and scrub doctors use, and that we used at the hospital. I think that is a great idea, and I plan to do that on our upcoming travels.
Exploring northern California puts us within range of the University of California San Francisco, a leading lung transplant center. It is good to know we’re not too far. I found a boat for a dinner cruise and to watch fireworks on July 3. I’ve also booked whale watching out of Moss Landing, near Monterey. A special tour of the Monterey Bay Aquarium is on the schedule as well. We meet friends in San Francisco who will travel with us to Shelter Cove, so we are also looking forward to that! You can bet I’ll be posting photos as I look for seals, sea lions, otters, whales, and all other animal life I can find. Maybe we’ll see a bear when we go to Lake Tahoe! If we do, I’ll be taking photos of it!
It sounds like Randy has a great protector in you! Being prepared is half the battle. If you need any restaurants tips in SF let me know. I look forward to hearing about your adventures and seeing your photos! Travel safe!
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I try…he doesn’t always like my protection, that I can tell you! We have a favorite restaurant in Chinatown on Jackson, called Hunan Home. And a great seafood place on the wharf….starts with an “S”…..
Tam Warner recently posted…Travels Continue…but no more tan for Ran!
Oh Tam, you will be so close (I am in San Diego)! There is comfort in knowing great medical care is right around the corner. So glad you are not skipping the journeys — just proceeding with the needed adjustments. Hmmm… could be a midlife blogger scuba trip in the future :)? We can dream, right?
I think a midlife scuba and snorkel trip is absolutely in order! Great idea! Who else dives out there???
There are quite a few of you in San Diego or southern California….I’ve been visiting out there for the last 5 years (mostly while my son was in college there), but this trip we are headed north. Next time!
Tam Warner recently posted…Travels Continue…but no more tan for Ran!
Good luck on this trip. BTW, one of my favorite lake spots at Tahoe is Sugar Pine Point State Park. It’s on the west side of the lake. There’s a great dock for walking, a very cool old stone lodge (The Erhman Mansion…like a mini Vikingsholm at Emerald Bay, without the hike), tons of shade and no crowds. It’s always my go-to spot.
Kim thank you! We are staying right next door to the Park, actually! I am hoping for black bears! and a nice hike. I’m glad to hear the park is awesome….we are staying in Tahoma.
Tam Warner recently posted…Travels Continue…but no more tan for Ran!
Good for you and Randy, despite the challenges, to still be making the most of life! Have a wonderful time in California!
Thanks! As I always say, do it and do it now while you CAN.
Tam Warner recently posted…Travels Continue…but no more tan for Ran!
I welcome you to my neck of the woods and hope you have a marvelous trip! I know you will.
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are you in nothern cali? If so, we’ll try to meet up! We chose a northern trail this time, we’ve stayed in San Diego and the Inland Empire so often.
Tam Warner recently posted…Travels Continue…but no more tan for Ran!
So great that you’re finding a way to take this trip. I’m sure you will have a blast! Can’t wait to see your bear photo – from far away, please!
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Oh, no, Lois, it has to be a close up! I’ll try and zoom a little. LOL.
Tam Warner recently posted…Travels Continue…but no more tan for Ran!
You’ve got some amazing activities lined up. This has all the makings of a memorable vacation and I hope Randy stays healthy throughout.
I hope you and Randy have a wonderful time. You both deserve it!
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What a fun trip – you will love it! Have a great time.
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Thanks!
Keep an eye on him, Tam! Already looking forward to your adventures!
I will. I’ll be keeping in touch!
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