I decided to return the Garmin watch afterall. I really liked it but it just was not for me and there were a few things I did not like after trying it out. I saw a few reviews that had the same dislikes that I did and they went back to the Apple Watch Ultra. It was a lot of money to spend just to have to buy ANOTHER watch to do the other things I need daily and I only want one watch. I will just get a new Apple Watch Ultra to replace my old one and save some money.

I am disappointed but glad I gave it a try. Much like my Google Pixel experience, you don’t really know until you try the alternatives. Sometimes it works out for the better, other times not. The differences can be overwhelming, but I also have the familiarity with Apple devices after 20 years. Doesn’t mean I am completely happy with Apple as a company these days (I certinly am not), but there’s always tradeoffs.

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Hiking maps are a little different to use on the Apple Watch so I need to work that out a little more to better understand it. I have used the maps on my phone instead because of ease of use, but I started to figure out some new things with a couple of my apps for hiking. I found a really good website and channel on YouTube called Hiking Guy. He is really informative and knows what he is talking about – serious outdoor cred. Even he – a long-time Garmin wearer – uses an Apple Watch Ultra now.

He does reviews and has excellent tutorials. I just found one I had not seen before to help me with one of the apps I use. This app has so many functions and settings it actually makes Apple Watch settings as detailed as a Garmin. The other app is used to plan hikes then those maps are exported to the watch. Then you go hike. And I will.

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I should be done with my current medical nonsense after my appointment early next week. After going through this procedure twice so far (again, no details), I know it takes a few days for the pain to calm down enough to be tolerable but at least it is just about over. It is looking like the weather is going to be really nice for the next week or so with little rain. I am ready for it; I can finally get out and do something before it gets too busy. For now it will just be some road trips until I am fully recovered, then there will be some hiking. That is all a real boost.

It is getting better.

See you next time.

Shawn