We’re Not in Las Lajas Anymore.

No, we’re not in Las Lajas anymore, but a good time was had by all, and the memory will stay with me forever. Such an amazing place. On the way home, Nancy and Kathy said that we will plan to go there every year when I come down. I won’t hesitate the next time.

Gloria’s sister, Angel, is coming to visit at the end of March. Gloria invited me to go along with them for a visit to Las Lajas, but I think I’ll pass on that. It seems too soon to do that again (why? no idea right now), but that is also very close to the end of my stay here, and it would feel rushed. I guess I can’t take too much luxury at one time.

Yesterday, as I sat near the pool writing, I noticed this gentleman walking around the resort, talking on his cell phone. He came and sat down in this spot for a little while. I had the thought that this is what doing business in 2022 looks like.

I learned later that this man is the owner of many of the very best restaurants in Boquete: Retro Gusto, A Pizza, Otto’s and The Butcher. There may be more, not sure. He is Italian. I don’t know his name. I hesitated posting this, but I learned that in the blogging world, if the person doesn’t want it posted, they can ask to have it taken down. So, right now, it’s just part of life.

I learned all this about him from Kathy (the very best source for current information – as long as you don’t hold her to it) when I commented on the cutest little girl who walked by us. Turns out, this was the restaurateur’s daughter. Kathy then gave me the scoop. So, another great example of Boquete expats enjoying Las Lajas as a get-away.

One last sand image:

I listened to an excellent podcast this morning by functional medicine physician Mark Hyman. He interviews , Kara Fitzgerald, MD, a specialist in epigenetics. They were discussing how our ability to prevent disease and slow down the aging process can be accomplished by using food, supplements, and exercise. (I wanted to add “medication” to that, but I’m not sure.) This is not big news, but I have experienced the benefits of genetic testing twice already, and so I am a strong advocate.

I had a genetic test called Genesight done in 2016 at a point of extreme emotional discomfort. Because of having this test done, I was placed on a medication that synchronized best with my metabolism. I think this basically means they determine which pathways your liver uses best to metabolize a given medication. It was a life changer.

And then recently I had genetic testing done with a functional medicine physician near my home. I was hoping to see her in regard to the issue of “osteoporosis” that has been following me around (for no good reason). Her name is Tamara Dall, MD, FNLP. Her preliminary workup includes genetic testing and blood work. She then looks at genetic risk for disease versus blood values that would contribute.

In our meeting, she said, “I know you are concerned about the osteoporosis, but what is more important is that you have what has become known as the ‘heart attack’ gene. AND my bloodwork showed an elevated CRP (inflammation marker). Could be from having had Covid…maybe not… So, I’ve agreed to taking a small dose of Zetia. I lost sleep over that one, but I have come to believe in the power of the genetic testing, and I am going to trust the functional medicine people. Plus, she said she would work with my primary care physician.

Okay, so, that sort of felt like TMI, but I know friends and family are reading this, so, just sayin’. This is the way medicine is going.

And now back to Boquete reality. I’m looking forward to spending the morning with Barb. We’re not doing our usual hike because I need to rest my feet and legs from the sand walking, but we’re going to drive into town and run a few errands. One stop is Cathy’s. Cathy Schulte is going to download the next four seasons of Seaside Hotel onto my thumb drive. I’m set!