Steve, thanks for the congrats and comments.
Diamox was definitely on my radar; this trip was mostly about how I would respond to a relatively quick trip to 13,000+. Considering how uncomfortable some people get, with nasty headaches and nausea, I was really relieved to feel at ease except for losing my appetite again, and that and the insomnia might also be related to various other stressors. In general I would like to avoid it, but I might try it to compare the experience, and have it as a potential assist in my arsenal for the quick and high kind of trip.
I have noticed that insomnia is a common complaint; you and others have mentioned sleeping aids; I am curious about your experience and others on the forum who have mentioned it.
I feel like I have had a reassuringly positive re-engagement with backpacking; altitude was last big issue, and now I am looking forward to other goals and longer trips, and fine tuning tactics and rituals.
Thanks for creating such a friendly and welcoming forum for everyone to share stories and information; it has been inspiring and encouraging for me.
