I Ran One Mile

I am so excited... I reached a milestone in my journey to being a runner, and living a healthier life. When I reached that milestone, I had to make a video... In that very spot!

50 Days And Counting

Image courtesy of Coca Cola

Today is 50 days and counting, without a single Coca Cola. I am the biggest Coke fan, and after a mild case of the flu, and not having a Coke, I started my journey One Day At A Time.

Around day 23, I set a goal for myself,  100 days without a Coke, and today... I'm halfway there! Earlier this week, I told my family day 101, I'm having at least a half cup of Coke. Mr. Husband doesn't see the point, but for me it's more of a reward.

In the first few weeks, I had headaches and had difficulty remembering things. I was in class lecturing, and was trying to think of a particular word, then an incident. One of my students said, "It's the lack of Coke." And they all thought it was funny. I have to admit it was.

I thought I'd drop about 10 pounds. Maybe because Mr. Husband used to say so when I'd say I needed to lose that much. The weight loss hasn't been going as well as expected. I'm on again, and off again, and way off since Easter. Monday... it's back on.

No matter what... mid May, I'm walking/jogging (mostly walking) a 5K!

Jumping For Better Health

Two weeks ago, I bought a pretty orange jump rope, and have yet to use it. Last week I started walking, doing a walk to 5K program. This week, I'm adding that cute little jump rope to my workout.

Springing forward with daylight savings time has me feeling like doing nothing. After reading Wifey's blog, I decided to push myself, and get it done. Next week, I want to add something else to my workout, but have no clue yet. It won't be push-ups, I have NO upper body strength at all!

My daughter's team workout is intense. They do different drills with ladders, push ups and sit ups with the basket ball, along with many other drills. I thought about joining them, but my kids would be so embarrassed. Maybe next week, I'll incorporate some of their workout into my own.

What do you do to stay motivated, and what type of workout do you do?

  

Not - Tardy For The Party

Kim of Real Houswives of Atlanta sang Don't Be Tardy for the Party, a few seasons ago. Yesterday, I was anything BUT tardy! Let me start from the beginning, and catch you up.

Long over due, Sunday night I cleaned out my email account deleting some, and saving others. I opened an unread email from a local wellness center. They're having a 10 Week Walk To Run Program, leading up to the Heart & Soul 5K, May 12. That's just what I need, a goal to work toward, and the support of a group.

My family ragged on me, nearly betting that I wouldn't get up to be there at 5:15 the next morning for the registration. I set my alarm for 4:45 a.m., and was there.on.time! I went to the track where they'd be walking... and no group. I walked back to the wellness center, and the older man working the desk, didn't have a clue about the walking program. I whipped out my phone, and checked the email again... the breakroom, that's where they're meeting. No one there either.

Going back to the front desk, the older guy still didn't have a clue. None of the people that could have been running the program was there. Then a fitness instructor I know walks out, and tells me it starts that evening. I checked my email again... Yep it said 5:15 P.M.

With my excitement and enthuiasm at zero, I went back to the track and walked since I was there. I had every intention of going back that evening, and joining that group. By that time, I learned we have something else scheduled the same day as the 5K, and mornings are really better for me.

But I didn't just give up. I found a 8 Week Walk to Run 5K Program online, and my oldest daughter agreed to walk with me. I'm not saying I'm going to run... but I'm going to give it my all, at least a fast walk! And who knows, I just might host my very own 5K with my friends.

One Day At A Time

I love Coca Cola! I don't drink coffee, smoke cigarettes, or drink liquor... Coke has been my vice for years. Generally I'll have one, at the most two 20 ounces a day, that's it. Mr. Husband has been on me about cutting back, or cutting it out all together. Of course, I wasn't hearing it.

Last week, I went to the doctor, and of course I haven't lost any of the weight I'd gained last summer. And it was also no surprise that my blood pressure was elavated. With added weight, my blood pressure goes up, throw in very little activity ... you understand. My doctor wanted to increase the dosage of my medicine, but I persuaded her to let me lose the weight first.   

Two days after that doctor visit,  the nasty bug that was creeping through my house attacked me. Mr. Husband and I both had the flu. Last Wednesday, February 22, was the LAST time I had a Coke.Today makes 9 days without! I didn't intentionally decide to stop drinking Coke. Yes, I understand how much sugar is in soda, and it contributes to my weight gain. My philosophy has been to cut back somewhere else.

While sick, I didn't have a Coke, and before I knew it, it had been three days. After I started feeling better I then decided, I'll take it one day at a time, without Coke. Today is day nine. Don't get me wrong, I have had soda, ginger ale. Yesterday was hard! I was experiencing a nagging headache, it had to be withdrawals. My mother had an open 2 liter of Coke... I saw it, and got a cup of water. Later, half a fruit soda helped me through.

Realizing, I'm not a spring chicken any more, my health is in my hands. Although I'm not obese, and I only need to lose 10-15 lbs, my family history of high blood pressure, and glaucoma is a major factor. I'm not professing a major workout, and announcing how many pounds I'm going to lose by next week. What I am saying is I don't want any more medicine, or to develop glaucoma, or failed kidneys... and it's all up to me!

Digital Dr.'s Office

This morning at my regular scheduled Dr.'s appointment the receptionist announces, "We're going digital. You'll soon be able to access lab results, schedule appointments, and request refills all online."

That's great... I think. Then I started to think, WHAT IF something happens, and everything is wiped out... THEN WHAT!

I am one to embrace technology, and all that it has to offer. But with something as delicate as my medical history, I'm concerned. My bank is backed by FDIC, so if someone should steal all $5, I am guaranteed it's safe return.

Who's protecting my medical records. I know I'm probably over thinking it a bit, but it's heavy on my mind. Call me crazy!

What about technology, and being able to access so much information from just about anywhere in the world are you concerned with? 

I'm Walking

Last year, I created a 28 Day Challenge, pushing myself to write a fresh new blog post every day in February. It's February again, and this year it's a 29 Day Challenge.

Like millions of people on January 1, I set goals, (not resolutions). Included in those goals were lose weight, start exercising/working out, and become healthier.

January has come and gone, and I haven't lost any weight. I thought about exercising (but I don't think that counts), and I haven't gotten any closer to becoming healthier. Yesterday, a conversation with my mom kind of sparked a little something.

She reminded me, I had the perfect schedule. I could walk mornings after the kids leave for school, and still have plenty of time before going to work. True.

Then she got started on my affair with Coca-Cola. If I cut back on drinking Coke, I could lose a few pounds, reduce my risk of various health issues, and save a few dollars that could use for a gym membership, she said. True again.

I listened, opened my Coke, and sat at my computer.

This morning, I could hear her voice in my head replaying our conversation. After the kids were gone. I took advantage of this lovely spring like weather. I strapped on my shoes, and hit the door. I walked 30 minutes, for a total of 2 miles.

Instead of drinking a Coke today, I'll make cranberry tea. I've not giving it up, but I will cut back, then we'll see how it goes. I'm committing to two Coke-less days THIS week. That's all I can promise.

No More Headache

Today is the first day this week I've not had a headache!

I've been suffering from a migraine, and it was terrible. What started Friday, with a blurred spot in my right eye, and a nervous trip to the eye doctor, turned out to be a migraine. Although the actual headache didn't start until Sunday, it was a nasty one!

I tried several things, including Excedrin Migraine, ibuprofen, cold compress... but the pain continued. I was told to try a half a cup of coffee, sniff rubbing alcohol, and soak my feet in hot water.

Do you suffer from migraines? What do you do? What home remedies have you tried, and recommend?

I See... Blurry Lights!

For nearly a year, I've carried a prescription for new lenses in my notebook. When I changed notebooks, it moved as well. You see, I didn't want to wear bi-focals, even if they are lineless. At 40-years-old, I felt, I was too young for bi-focals.

I did go to Wal-Mart, and start the process of getting new lenses. In the middle of the appointment, I told the lady helping me, I wasn't ready, and when I was, I'd return. I haven't gone back!

Last weekend, I noticed a bank's marquee, just beyond the light I was approaching. I asked my children if they could read it, and they could. All I saw was blurred red lights. At night approaching car lights look like what my Dr. calls star burst. I didn't think anything of it because it's... DARK! Now, I'm careful not to drive in unfamiliar places at night. Just as a precaution.

I'm thinking, maybe it's time to reconsider this bi-focal thingy. I've noticed a few other things, like:

1. Waking up, I need my glasses ASAP. There's no seeing the clock without them.

2. Reading medicine bottles, the phone book, or recipes has become more difficult. If I take my glasses off, I'm not seeing ANYTHING!

3. Messaging, tweeting, or facebooking from my phone, if my glasses aren't on, is all a total blur.

4. Putting my eyeliner on in the mirror isn't funny anymore. I have to be ON.THE.MIRROR to see what I'm doing!

I'm admitting, I can't see as well as I used too. And maybe I really do need bi-focals, even though I'm still in my 40s. There I said it. I put my handful of vanity in my pocket. I will make an appointment, and get the damn bi-focals.

Are you kidding? There is NO WAY, I'm using that prescription from nearly a year ago. My eyes have changed since then, and I know it!

I'm In The Red

Today is National Wear Red Day, women, men, and children all over the world are wearing red for heart awareness, and National Heart Month. As you can see, I'm in that number!

Heart Disease is one of those things that can be prevented. The following tips can help you prevent the number one killer of women.

1. Monitor your blood pressure. You may have hypertension, and not be aware of it.

2. If you're a smoker... QUIT! A smoker is twice as likely to have a heart attack as a non-smoker.

3. Watch your diet. A healthy diet can help reduce the risk of heart disease and help increase the chances of survival after a heart attack.

4. Keep it moving. Physical activity and exercise helps control your weight, therefore reducing the chances of developing other conditions that may put a strain on your heart.

5. Know your cholesterol numbers. high cholesterol is a major factor in clogged arteries.

Come on and join me, get in the red!

Who's The Test Monkey, Now?!

It's American Heart Month, and this week I had an echo cardiogram, (ultra sound of my heart), along with a nuclear stress test. How odd is that!

Monday, I was scheduled to do both, but before I went to the hospital for the test, I had a sip of Coke. Okay, more than a sip, but it was only a half a cup. No one called, or wrote to tell me caffeine is a no-no. I had the echo, and rescheduled the stress test for today.

Male nurse explained all that would take place, gave me an injection, and sent me on my way for an hour. I found my way to the cafeteria, where I started writing this post, people watching, and observed the omelet lady.

I'll save my people watching for another post. You wouldn't BELIEVE what I saw!!!

Finally, it was time for me to go back to the waiting room. A huge semi MRI looking machine took pictures of my heart, while I laid on a table, with my arms over my head. I could move my arms, and my feet, just not my chest. What?! Keep very still, in other words.

Do you know how hard it is to lay in that position without moving? An itch was growing on the inside of my thigh, and then my shoulder started to hurt. I wanted to fall asleep, I tried to fall asleep. As soon as I dozed off, the scan was over.

I was then sat in the hall, to wait for the stress part of the test, and was nervous as hell. Five years ago, I had a nuclear stress test, OMG! I was injected with the medicine, and my heart went from 0 - 60 in the matter of seconds. This lasted for about four minutes. I thought my eyes would pop out of my head, and I would pass out! A nurse held my hand, and talked to me the entire time. So I was not looking forward to that again!

Male nurse, and a nice young lady nurse were attending to me, but there were also two others lurking. After I was all hooked up, and Male nurse explained the process. Female lurker went on to say, today's test wouldn't be as stressful as the past stress test. There is a new medicine, that does the same thing, but with less affects. Today was the first time the hospital was administering this medicine for the stress test. She and the other lurker were there to over see the procedures today. Had I not had that Coke Monday, I would have gotten the almost pee in your pants, stress test.

Whew, I didn't get the whammy stress test!

When a new restaurant opens, I wait... and let them master the dishes. When a new tech product comes out, I wait... and let others work through the bugs. Today, I ended up the test monkey!

For information on living heart healthy, visit the American Heart Association's website.

Motivation Monday

Today is the kick-off of Hearth Health Month. I'm motivated to take care of the pump that moves 2,000 gallons of blood every day. Every 24 hours, our hearts beats almost 100,000 times. You would think something that does that much work, would sound like a broken down washing machine. Instead, it runs so smooth, and quiet, and we barely give it a thought.

This month, I promise to think more about my heart. Become more conscious of my eating habits, and exercise, as well as, be more proactive with my high blood pressure.

To get more heart health tips, or join the Better U campaign, follow the link to Go Red For Women.

Weigh-in Wednesday

Today is Weigh-in Wednesday, for the Rethink Your Shrink Challenge. I was so excited to see how I did in my first week. The first thing after getting out of bed, I hopped on the scale.

Okay... This couldn't be right. I haven't eaten, or drank anything yet. I took off my light weight housecoat and stepped back on the scale.

I moved the scale to another spot on the floor. No change.

To the bathroom. The floor in there is more even, I think.

Here I go, back to the hall. I removed the housecoat again, and held my breath.

Dang, I lost just .8 pounds. Regrouping... That's better than nothing, right? It's a start, and I'm good with that, 147.2 lbs. Next week I'm kicking it in the BUTT!

Rethinking My Shrink

Last week I decided to finally stop talking about doing something about my health, and get busy. Sticking to my word, I joined the ladies at Shrinking Jeans , and taking on the Rethink Your Shrink Challenge, and as well as the EA Sports Active, 6 Week Challenge.

Today is 'Weigh-in Wednesday,' for the Rethink Your Shrink Challenge. Since this is my first week, I don't have a loss to report, but I do want to tell you about my first two days of the 6 week challenge.

Over the weekend, I bought the EA Sports Active More game. It doesn't come with the leg strap and resistance bands. Wal-mart doesn't carry that accessory, and the Game Stop was fresh out. The nearest place to get the set is about an hour away, and I've not had the opportunity to get there yet. But I was determined to get started this week, by any means necessary.

Particular parts of the game require the leg strap. There's just no way around it. Being the resourceful person I am... I went to work! I started looking for anything to fashion a makeshift leg strap.

Booyah! I'm in business. My children being being very athletic, we've had a few injuries. A couple of those mishaps required an Ace Bandage. Yes, an Ace Bandage. It might not be as pretty, but I'm able to get my squash, water ski, lunge, and jump on. And that's what's important right?! Of course it is.

The kids thought I was crazy. My son says, "Mama, I'll buy the leg strap for you."

I reassured him, it was not about money (I was buying it for myself, even if it meant they didn't eat for a day). There were just none available. The kids then watched me, peeping from the kitchen every few minutes, as if I was a monkey in the zoo.

I'm having a ball sparring, water skiing, and taking on obstacle courses. Today is a rest day, but I a looking forward to what tomorrow's workout has to offer. I can't wait to take part in a new sport.

Other than the soreness right now, I'm having so much fun, it's a shame to call it a workout!
Next week, I'll report, just how many pounds I lost in my first week. Oh, yeah starting weight... 148.

Panini's Anyone?

Recently, I went to the Dr. carrying a grocery list of concerns, needs, and things I wanted to either check or discuss.

When the nurse asked "What are you being seen for today?" I pulled out my handy dandy notebook, and rattled off...


Chest pains
Lingering cough
Blood pressure
Mammogram
Colonoscopy
Pelvic Arthritis

Without saying a word her look said, "You must be kidding."

And I returned a look, "Nope. I'm so serious!" Her expression was priceless.

It's been a while since I had a check-up, and my last Dr. left town. I found another Dr. I think I'm going to really like her. Most importantly, I need to stay on top of my health. By the time I left that office, I had an EKG, received instructions and prescriptions, as well as scheduled lab work, a mammogram, and another appointment for a colonoscopy. Talk about getting your co-pay's worth!

Last week I had the mammogram. It had been a few years, and I kinda sorta remembered how things went. I wasn't concerned at all. The radiologist put my left boob on the plate/shelf (I don't know what to call it), and squeeze, squeeze, squeeze real tight. I don't have a lot, had to get really close in order to get all of my boob on it. Hold my breath, and release.

Right boob, squeeze, squeeze, squeeze real tight, hold by breath. And done. I was amazed at how flat she could get my boobs... like panini's. For some reason, that was so funny! While holding my breath, I was trying my best not to laugh.

The nurse thought that was funny as well. Mr. Husband didn't find the humor. Oh well, lets see how funny his prostate exam will be.

Feelin' A Little Pink!

Although it's cloudy, and a little rainy out, I'm all PINK!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and today, I'm showing my support by wearing pink. In just 12 days, October 17, I will walk in my third Susan G. Komen, 'Race For The Cure.'

In 2006, I participated for the very first time. Although surrounded by thousands of other women, I walked alone. It was an amazing experience, and I knew I had to do it again. Last year, my friend Yaminah and I walked with our daughters. Mr. Husband cheered us on from the side lines, with the other 3 miles of men.

We raced with our girls not only to share the experience, but to encourage them to make a difference.

This year, I will walk with, and for Anita. Since last years race, she was diagnosed, fought and beat breast cancer. I celebrate her, and the many women who have been touched by this disease.

Actually, the idea to wear pink today, came from the NFL's effort to bring attention to breast cancer awareness. Last night during the Pittsburgh Steelers, and San Diego Chargers game, they wore pink wrist bands, and pink was incorporated in their shoes, gloves, and caps that were worn on the side line.

I encourage you to get in the pink of things!

Not Bifocals Already, I'm Only 40!

I was coaxed into seeing my eye doctor this week. I had already walked around a few days with my left eye squinted shut. My cousin suggested something could actually be wrong.

Initially, the plan was to get the scratchy eye thing taken care of. I figured, since I was going, why not have an eye exam? I was due one, (the free one we pay for as part of the vision plan).
The doctor prescribed drops for my eyes… expected that.

My eyes have changed a little, and he adjusted the prescription accordingly… expected that too.

“I’m prescribing bifocals,” blind-sided me. That was so unexpected!

“Bifocals?” I chocked!

My eyes were bucked, and mouth wide open. I reminded myself of Jim Carey in the first Mask, where his eyes popped out of his head, extending about 10 inches.

“I’m not ready for bifocals. I’m only 40,” I told him.

The doctor tried to console me. He explained, I could get lineless bifocals, and no one will be able to tell. That was not the problem, I’m not vain. It’s the IDEA of wearing bifocals that bothers me! I’m only 40 (SCREAMING LOUDLY)!

As a kid, I remember my grandparents and great-grandparents wearing bifocals, and they were like 180 years old. But they looked good. My parents both wear bifocals. First my mother, at 50, and my father not too long ago and they are 62, and 63. There is a certain stigma associated with bifocals… being old. I’m only 40 years old, and bifocals are not for 40 year-olds. Especially 40 year-olds who look 26, like I do.

I don’t think I know anyone around my age wearing bifocals. A true sign of aging is a loss of hearing, memory and sight.

For some time now, my memory hasn’t been the greatest. That’s another post, for another day. But… my sight not being what it used to be bothers me, just a little.

No pill thing-a-ma-jigs; I’m only 40

A few months ago, I had a terrible scare. Headed to a meeting 45 minutes away, I did my normal, “Did I take my medicine today?” That led me to a mental recount of taking my daily medicines.

Whew, I remembered taking it. Then… I thought about exactly when… and uh-oh. I think I took two doses of the blood pressure medicine.

Immediately, I called my Dr.’s office. She wasn’t in, and the nurse wasn’t available. My next response was to call every nurse I know, and had a number for. No one answered, and I left messages all over the place.

Finally, I got a nurse at the Family Practice. I told her what I was taking, and the dosage. She said I should be fine. The worst thing that could happen is, my blood pressure dropping too low, getting dizzy, and to passing out. “If you start getting dizzy, get to a hospital.”

Of course, I was fine, without incident. Today, I still haven’t figured out if I actually took an extra dose. Later a friend and I laughed about it. She suggested I get one of those pill cases. It’s clearly divided and marked S, M, T, W, TH, F, S, for each day of the week.

No way! I’m not having it! I’m just 40, not 70. My grandmother had one of those things. That’s for people who can’t remember taking their meds. “That’s the problem you’re having,” she reminded me.

I absolutely REFUSE to use the pill-thing-a-ma-jig! It’s not like I’m taking a whole regimen of drugs, just three. I’ll figure something out.

So far, I’ve tried a few different things. When I wake up in the morning, I take my Synthroid, and set the blood pressure meds out on the counter. Once I take them, I put them up. If the medicine is still on the counter, I know I haven’t taken it. That seems to be working for now. I have to admit, there’s been at least a half dozen times I didn’t move the bottle, after taking the medicine. I can say, I haven’t over dosed. It seems to be working for me.

When I get be 70, I might consider one of those pill thing-a-ma-jigs, and only if it’s cute.