Last time I was in Wildebeestville, I kicked into a transmission/engine assembly in an attempt to dislodge one from the other. In doing so, I split the corner off the left side of the nail on my big toe on my left foot. Now, almost 3 weeks later, it has become really infected, and hurts bad enough that I am having a hard time walking.

I've spent about 10 minutes each night this week, draining and washing it with anti-bacterial soap, but during the day when my feet are couped up in the shoes during 95°F weather, there's really no chance that any bacteria or whatever will disappear.

Last night, I sent Dad to Wal-Mart to get me some hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol. Again, I drained the infection, but soaked it in peroxide for about 5 minutes, then rinsed with the alcohol. I did this about 3 times when I got out of the shower, and again before bed.

Today, when I went to work, I could hardly walk because it was so sore. My guess is that the stuff was working overnight and that things are starting to heal. After an 8 hour day of being on my feet non-stop, I got home and pulled my shoe and sock of first thing. It had started looking really nasty again, so I decided to soak it for an hour in Epsom salt water, then do the whole peroxide and alcohol rinse again, then put some antibiotic ointment on it.

For the rest of the day, I sat here at the computer with my foot propped up under the desk.

Just now, I went and took a shower, then did the rinse and ointment again.

Things are still pretty sore, and walking is just as difficult. All in all, though, the infection appears to be clearing up. I plan on sleeping with no blanket tonight, and not going anywhere tomorrow, so I can let this thing air out and stay clean.

I just hope I don't have to go spend $140 on a doctor visit to find out that I have an infected toenail. rolls eyes