Russ got an insect (spider?) bite on his lower back a few days ago, which developed a good-sized itchy rash. After a few days it became somewhat painful. Mr. Hypochondriac made me take a picture of it so he could examine it in detail. I suggested he send the photo to his sister, a retired Nurse Practitioner, for her input (but really because I thought it was hilarious to send Debby a photo of her brother’s butt). I’ll spare you, dear reader.

The whole way to Pueblo, he feebly reported his unnerving symptoms: “I’m starting to get a headache.” “My stomach is starting to feel queasy.” When I suggested that eating something might help, he asked if that was safe, given that he might need surgery. He was pretty sure he’d need a skin graft. And, of course, I received a long list of last wishes.

We made it to camp, set up, and headed right back into town. I dropped him off at urgent care while I ran to a nearby CVS to pick up my prescription refill. Fortunately, he was seen pretty quickly, and he regaled me with spine-tingling tales of how close he’d come to death as I drove BACK to CVS to get his antibiotics. (Now, two hours after taking his first pill, he’s concerned that he doesn’t already feel better).

This campsite has spectacular scenery, lake access, and piñon pines everywhere (I LOVE that smell). We’re not far from Cañon City, where we stayed at the East Rim Campground and went whitewater rafting in 2022.