Surprise, Surprise .... Went to the gym both Thurs and Fri and did a 20 minute cardio on the elliptical two days in a row (three times this week!!).  About the same heart rate data each time.   I'm going to keep the same duration for one more week, then if the knee holds up, move the duration up a bit each week with a target of a 30 minute cardio each workout.  Resistance work is still 'on hold' for now.

Well here I am again, a week later.  I know, I must commit and I will!  Did another 20 minute 'cardio' on the elliptical.  Beginning with a pulse of 88, I had a 10 minute pulse of 128, a 15 minute pulse of 136 and a 20 minute pulse of 155.  No resistance work yet. 

My left knee is bothering me; with aching pain every step, and an occasional sharp pain now and again.  I will be asking the 'orthopod' what can be done short of surgery.  When I had the 'vesco supplementation' done, they injected me with all three shots from the 'lateral' side (pain is medial) and I will explore the possibility of a 'redo' from the medial side.  And if that's not seen as possibly helpful, I'll ask what short term 'pain abatement' procedure might be administered  a day or two before our departure to Europe  (7/11) such as a 'corticosteroid' injection.    Having had many of those, I know it will only last a few weeks at best, but that might at least be sufficient to minimize the pain and make possible normal or near normal ambulation during our trip ...... stay tuned.

Well, guess who's back?   ME!!!  Joined and visited the gym today.  Only did a 20 minute cardio on the elliptical with a average HR of 130 and a Max of 147, but at least it's a beginning.  I'm going to try to get to the gym at least 3 times this week but keep my efforts to 'cardio' for a while anyway.  I may add a couple days of 'resistance' next week.... we'll see.  Didn't feel terrible .... tomorrow I may feel different.