Where have I been? Posting has been light for an extended period of time and non-existent since May 21, 2025. Couple months back, I developed an inguinal hernia; right side. Interestingly, or not, I had one repaired on the left side around age eight.
Surgery took place 10 days ago, and healing advances nicely. The surgeon operated at an outpatient surgical center, which I initially regarded skeptically, presuming a hospital must be better. But thinking differently, later supported by experience: What better place than where surgeons and support staff cut all day long? Practice makes perfect as they say, and a surgical center must be prepped and ready to handle the unexpected.
Wow, surgery sure has changed since my appendicitis at age 14. The procedure lasted about 30 minutes, and I recovered shockingly fast from the anesthesia. I awoke clear-headed, rather than feeling foggy as anticipated. I was up and around (at home!) normally all the rest of the day.
Another thing changed but that I personally disapprove: The drugs. Americans are too afraid of pain. The doctor prescribed a narcotic pain killer, nerve pain reliever, and acetaminophen. During the first three days, I sparingly took Tylenol that we already had at home; nothing else. We feel pain for a reason, and I wanted to feel enough to prevent injury during recovery. I might not slow down or show enough precaution otherwise. So, pain? I welcome it.
On April 19, 2025, I used Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra to shoot the Featured Image, not knowing how it would be used. Vitals: f/1.9, ISO 40, 1/4000 sec, 2.2mm; 10:19 a.m. PDT. Composed as captured.