La Semana Treinta y Tres: Towards Healthy Living

Post 500 - Who ever imagined that I would hit 500 posts, but with this post, I have hit that mark. Thanks for journeying with me over the past many years in a very sporadic manner.

La Semana Treinta y Tres: Monday, February 23, 2015 -- 213.6 lbs
La Semana Treinta y Dos: Monday, February 16, 2015 -- 212.8 lbs
La Semana Treinta y Uno: Monday, February 9, 2015 -- 213.6 lbs

La Semana Treinta: Monday, February 2, 2015 -- 211.6 lbs (15.2 lbs -- 30 Weeks; .8 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

What a week....

Monday as promised was a snow filled day! The early morning had a mere inch or two but by midday we were up to about 8 inches of a very light powdery snow. I worked from home on Monday which was a good thing because finding a clean parking spot or even getting back into the parking lot would have been quite a chore. I did venture out about 5 pm to clean the 4 to 9 inches of snow off the car depending on where you measured. Actually, the passenger side may have had even less as the wind blew across the passenger side to the drivers leaving a nice mound of snow on the driver's side. The snow was so light definitely no fun for kids trying to make snowmen or snowballs, but it was great for cleaning off. Though no flexibility class Monday, I did get a slight arm workout pushing the snow off the top of the car and even more of an adduction/abduction workout for the legs. I found myself really using my right leg over the left. Though I tried to consciously use the left leg, it really was not happening. Amazingly, I was not too awful sore on Tuesday or Wednesday after the leg workout.

Tuesday due to warnings out in the county in which I worked, unsure of the status of the roads, and really not wanting to spend 2+ hours on the road, I decided it was best to stay home to maximize the time to work.

Wednesday - Friday, I returned to working in the office and also started a new workout. Wednesday & Thursday included flexibility class but then on Wednesday and Friday, I started a new workout. I have asked our trainer at work to provide me with a low sweat arm workout that only requires me to change into a t-shirt but will not make me sweat a ton. She provided me with two workouts this week of about 20 mins. This also works out well as I seem to have very little time to escape from work to workout, eat, or anything else.

Wednesday Workout
4 Sets of 30 curls & 30 punches with 5 lbs weights and 15 push-ups against a wall (not exactly but thats the easiest way to describe)

Friday Workout
5 lb weights again but this time we did both arm and hip exercises. I am not sure I can remember everything we did but here are a few...squats, leg kick outs, leg kick backs, curls, punches, flies.

My right heel is really bothering me this week. Thursday night I could barely walk on it later in the evening. I think part of that has to do with the boots I have been wearing due to the snow.

The weekend has been a weekend of sleeping...I fell asleep by 8 pm if not more like 7 pm on Friday night not to really wake again until 7:30 am Saturday morning. I took a nap about 11 on Saturday after doing some laundry and kitchen cleaning. I did end up staying up late on Saturday night to wake up about 7:30 am Sunday for church. I came home from church, grocery shopping, and oil change to take another 1 to 1.5 nap. By Sunday evening, I was tired again and just wanted to crawl on the couch, watch TV, and sleep. I didn't give into that until about 10 pm. Granted Thursday really put a wrench in my sleeping pattern as I took about 1.5 nap about 8 pm so I could get up and work at 11 pm. I then ended up staying up until 3 pm between working and then going to the store in order to get ingredients to make some homemade salsa for work on Friday.

It was quite a week and the weeks ahead are definitely not going to slow down, but should be full of exciting adventures. Until next week, have a blessed day! Thanks again for journeying with me!

La Semana Treinta y Dos: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Treinta y Dos: Monday, February 16, 2015 -- 212.8 lbs
La Semana Treinta y Uno: Monday, February 9, 2015 -- 213.6 lbs

La Semana Treinta: Monday, February 2, 2015 -- 211.6 lbs (15.2 lbs -- 30 Weeks; .8 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

A successful week of stretching. I even went on my own with no trainer on Tuesday. Sunday, some serious necessity and grocery shopping occurred, and by the end of the day, my right heel was killing me especially after sitting still.This really concerns me about getting out and hiking again as just general walking hurts.

Now shopping was quite the adventure though not as bad as I had expected. I actually did not need the bread, eggs, and milk that everyone was flocking after preparing for the foot of snow and subzero temps by end of week. But it truly was chaotic and busy especially at Kroger's.

I am also impressed with the savings I had at both Target and Kroger, especially Kroger. I don't believe that there was one thing bought at Kroger that was not either on sale or had a coupon and many items had both. Granted that resulted in a full rearrangement of the freezer when I got home, which finally has a good deal of food in it again. The sad thing is that I still have tons of food that I need to buy to fill the cupboards again.

Hopefully over the next few weeks, I can slowly refill the cupboards by finding needed items on sale and/or have coupons.

Kentuckians enjoy the snow! I have a feeling I am going to be sore tomorrow more on that next week.

La Semana Treinta y Uno: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Treinta y Uno: Monday, February 9, 2015 -- 213.6 lbs

La Semana Treinta: Monday, February 2, 2015 -- 211.6 lbs (15.2 lbs -- 30 Weeks; .8 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

I managed to make it to flexibility most of the week, except Friday. Tuesday night and Wednesday night, I did a little bit of manual labor to setup for a program at church and then tear back down. Thursday, I worked out my driving muscles as I completed 4 8-minute karting cycles.

There is a lot going on over the next couple of months, but I hope to get out soon and enjoy the cool weather before summer is upon us again.

La Semana Treinta: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Treinta: Monday, February 2, 2015 -- 211.6 lbs (15.2 lbs -- 30 Weeks; .8 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

30 weeks have passed since starting the latest attempt to lose weight and get back down to 180 or less. The last 20 weeks have been a very slow go, but I am encouraged that I have at least maintained to loss a bit over the recent 10 weeks which included 2 big eating holidays and a birthday.

I hope to get out soon and try to do some more hiking again. I need to work on stretching a lot more as the tight muscles from my hips to my toes are causing issues with my feet. Both feet continue to have heel spur/plantar fasciitis pains primary focused in the right. The left foot continues to have pain in the top of the foot though nowhere near what it was. It too seems to be similar to the other where once you walk and stretch it out the pain is not as bad.

I really don't remember what all happened last week. I believe I made it to stretching the middle few days. I did do many of my foot exercises on Friday while I sat waiting for the dermatologist to come in and check me out. Thankfully, another clean bill of health from any skin cancers.

Saturday I did some walking to the IU basketball game up the stairs and back to the car followed by some karting in French Lick, IN. I also went karting on Tuesday night. Running three races both evenings. 

The next 10 weeks gets me to the middle of April. The goal for then is to be back out hiking on a weekly basis, a more defined eating routine, and continued working to complete all the necessary exercises to reduce future injuries.

Thanks again for going on this journey with me! Sorry for the delay of this weeks update!

La Semana Veintneuve: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Veinteneuve: Monday, January 26, 2015 -- 210.0 lbs
La Semana Veinteocho: Monday, January 19, 2015 -- 212.8 lbs
La Semana Veintisiete: Monday, January 12, 2015 -- 209.8 lbs
La Semana Veintiseis: Monday, January 4, 2015 -- 211.8 lbs

La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

Monday, we did a good job and actually went to stretch though the trainer was out sick.

Tuesday, I went to the sleep doctor and worked from home as I had a big huge presentation to give at work on Friday.

Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday no such luck at going to stretch, but my presentation did go smoothly on Friday afternoon. I received several good comments.

Saturday & Sunday a lot of sitting around working on various projects. I did fold some laundry and do a small bit of grocery shopping.

I also tried to make something to eat for the week but failed as every time I thought of something to make their was a key ingredient or two missing from the cupboard or refrigerator. I really need to do some massive shopping, which means I should check out the ads and cut some coupons.

I started getting the paper again as it was just over $4 a month for Sunday papers, which is a bargain and the timing seems right since I am in need of so many things.

La Semana Veintocho: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Veinteocho: Monday, January 19, 2015 -- 212.8 lbs
La Semana Veintisiete: Monday, January 12, 2015 -- 209.8 lbs
La Semana Veintiseis: Monday, January 4, 2015 -- 211.8 lbs

La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

I really don't get the great fluctuation in weight the past few months. I really didn't have a lot to eat this weekend though Sunday's food was probably not overall the healthiest with a few donuts, a very tasty omelet (by far the healthiest thing I ate all day, thanks CB), and Captain D's Fish & Shrimp. I also did have several glasses water/ice tea before going to bed so maybe I was still retaining all that especially with all the salt that was probably in the dinner.

In terms of my weekly progress towards stretching, home exercises, etc., the progress continues to be small. I am probably hitting about half the Flexibility classes in a week and really not doing anything outside of that.

I was able about mid-week to work on the eating habits during the day a bit getting back to yogurt and salad. The evenings, I went out and grabbed something many nights as there just isn't much in my apartment. I really do need to take time to inventory and work on a game plan for eating again.

Maybe, I can get some things done this weekend if I am not too warn out by the time the weekend comes. I only have plans for Saturday evening and of course Mass on Sunday morning. Otherwise, I hope to work on several projects that I have on my plate and maybe a plan for eating healthier and doing my exercises. I would love to get back to hiking again. 

La Semana Veintsiete: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Veintisiete: Monday, January 12, 2015 -- 209.8 lbs
La Semana Veintiseis: Monday, January 4, 2015 -- 211.8 lbs

La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

Trying to get back into the habit of attending flexibility class and doing my home exercises has continued to be a struggle. Ever since returning, my heels continue to be swore as well as the top of my left foot. I made it to about half of the flexibility classes last week. Saturday, I walked to the IU game, up the stairs, back down, and to the car, approximately 3/4 of a mile. Saturday Night & Sunday Morning, I was on my feet after and before Masses to share about our Guatemalan adventure.

One night, I did actually cook dinner for myself, which was a nice change of pace. I fixed a baked spaghetti of sorts with shells instead of spaghetti noodles. I also was able to get back to my greek vanilla yogurt for breakfast and salad for lunch in attempt to eat healthier. But still struggling to stay away from the chocolates plus at my desk.

The goal that I am setting forth is to reach under 200 lbs by April which is just over 11 weeks from now and hopefully start hiking again soon. Though this requires getting going again regularly with home therapy and medicine on the foot.

I hope your new year is headed in a positive direction and may you reach your goals.

La Semana Veintseis: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Veintiseis: Monday, January 4, 2015 -- 211.8 lbs

La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

A whirlwind of a couple weeks with the Christmas & New Year's holidays.

La Semana Veinticinco
Christmas week was another rough week. I failed again at following through on my exercises and stretches, and it was really starting to take a toll as my foot began to hurt again. I did wear the insoles in my work shoes, not sure if they help or not. I guess over time we may see how things go.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas with family and friends celebrating the birth of our Savior!

La Semana Veintiseis
New Year's week, last part of Christmas week, was amazing! On Saturday, December 27, I headed back to Guatemala for an 8 day mission/service trip. Three of us from my church went, and there we met up with two physical therapy graduate student groups. So yes, I spent a week with a large group of PTs.

Over the course of the week, I did, while sitting around waiting for the next step in the travel process or while riding along in the coaster/microbus, fulfill some of my ankle exercises and stretches. I also did a decent job of putting meds on my foot morning and night, which hopefully kept the inflammation down on my left foot and the pain at a minimum.

Unfortunately, I failed to have the extra cushions in my work shoes so my heels were very sore all week, especially after sitting and along them to tighten up. I tried to massage the arch as well. One evening, I received a PT tissue workout on my right foot.

Saturday after Christmas -- Traveling so a lot of flying, but we did walk from Terminal B to E along the moving sidewalks with a bit more walking to get from E to F after our flight was moved.

Sunday -- A lot of standing on the feet helping the PTs receive clients and handle administrative type tasks in addition getting to play with the children. We had a bit of walking as well.

Monday -- Playing with the kids.

Tuesday -- A lot of sitting and observing but stretching the foot.

Wednesday -- Assisting in the mixing of concrete with a shovel, placing it in buckets, and even picking it up the bucket to send inside the house for the flooring. Then there was a jump and a little wadding in the local waterfall, which was very cold to start. So cold it pulled the bruise on my knee to the front causing pain.

Thursday -- A travel day followed by some walking around Antigua.

Friday -- 6+ miles of walking with about 1/2 hour up hill climb to see a beautiful cross and view of Antigua and the volcano Agua. By the end of the day, my feet were really sore especially every time I sat for awhile and then got back up again. Thankfully, as I walked around and moved, the pain minimized though not fully disappearing.

Saturday -- Another day of travel with a bit of walking.

Sunday -- A day for sleeping after arriving at 12:30 am and getting to sleep about 2:30 am

Happy New Year! May your journey begin anew and lead you on wonderful paths! Thanks for your continued viewing and following along on this journey. I hope to get going again and getting in better shape for the future!

La Semana Veintecuatro: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Veintecuatro: Monday, December 22, 2014 -- 214.6 lbs
La Semana Veintetres (Birthday Week): Monday, December 15, 2014 -- 210.8 lbs
La Semana Veintedos: Monday, December 8, 2014 -- 213 lbs
La Semana Veinteuno (Thanksgiving Week): Monday, December 1, 2014 -- 211.4 lbs

La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

Next report will come in two weeks as I will be unavailable to weigh in next Monday.

Not really sure what happened this past week, I truly believe I am holding a lot of water because there is no way I gained nearly 4 lbs this week after spending half of it not eating at all. See more information below.

Last Monday, I went to see the Foot Doctor. He still feels that things are progressing in a positive direction. I am to use up the cream and call back when it is gone. Also he suggested getting some 3/4 Powerstep or SuperFeet orthotics for my shoes. So I bought a pair to put in my dress shoes. I guess they are doing okay. I spent half the week not going anywhere. I also really need to work on doing a better job with the ankle exercises and my hip exercises.

Monday -- Accomplished a lot but just not my exercises.

Tuesday -- The one thing I really dislike is a stomach bug and that is what I dealt with from the time I awoke until about 6 pm, every hour or so starting about 6 am. By 3 pm, I swore it should have been midnight. It had been one of the longest days ever. Nothing stayed down until after 5 pm. I spent the day on the couch with a trash can nearby all day. Thankfully things finally settled down and I slept through the night.

Wednesday -- Another day at home trying to recoup from Tuesday. I was not aching but all my back and chest muscles were sore from sleeping on the couch and vomiting all day Tuesday. I did get up and shower and washed clothes, sheets, blankets, etc to rid the apartment of germs. 

Thursday -- A rough start to the morning, feeling a bit nauseous, but went off to work. I believe the core of the issue was the lack of eating the previous days. I managed through the day and then had a lovely evening catching up with a friend at Queen of Sheba, Ethiopian restaurant. I was a bit leery but the idea was great minus the slightly more spicy lentil dish, kik wot. 

Friday -- Feeling much better, actually had a little kick in my step in the morning. Again did not do any exercises and missed flexibility due to craziness at work. I did spend another lovely evening catching up with an old friend and holding/feeding her 4.5 month old.

We also went through a 'Drive-Thru' Christmas that her church put together. It was a nice experience hearing the story of Christ from pre-birth to resurrection with live enactments and story telling by the preacher.

Saturday -- Cupcake & icing making from scratch. This was my first experience at either of those specifically, but from what I hear they were good. The rest of the day was spent visiting a bunch of folks and delivering Christmas presents and 1st birthday present to my godson.

Sunday -- Laundry, kitchen cleaning, present wrapping & clean-up, packing for upcoming trips, and fun @ Bluegrass Indoor Karting (3 races). A few of the ankle exercises.

Have a very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! I will return again in the new year!

La Semana Veintetres: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Veintetres (Birthday Week): Monday, December 15, 2014 -- 210.8 lbs
La Semana Veintedos: Monday, December 8, 2014 -- 213 lbs
La Semana Veinteuno (Thanksgiving Week): Monday, December 1, 2014 -- 211.4 lbs

La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

Monday -- Actually made it to flexibility, did most of the exercises, not the three times a day stretches.

Tuesday -- Flexibility, ankle exercises and most of the hip, some stretches but again not three times.

Wednesday -- Flexibility, ankle exercises, some stretches. Work and Apt food parties :/

Thursday -- Go karting and birthday fun!

Friday -- A wonderful evening with friends and seeing Lights Under Louisville! Ankle exercises.

Saturday -- Playing with 3.5 year olds, a little shopping, ankle exercises! Another party!

Sunday -- Playing with 3.5 year olds, ankle exercises! Too many desserts after Lessons & Carols!

Less than two weeks until Christmas and a great adventure but a good direction in weight this past week!

La Semana Veintedos: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Veintedos: Monday, December 8, 2014 -- 213 lbs
La Semana Veinteuno (Thanksgiving Week): Monday, December 1, 2014 -- 211.4 lbs

La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

Week started off rough definitely not doing well on follow through on therapy...
Monday -- Made it to flexibility and did some of the stretches

Tuesday -- No flexibility, did complete some ankle exercises, and had a nice walk to and from the IU basketball game including a nice climb up the stairs to my seats. My foot was sore but it was closer to the ankle than down the top of the foot. As mentioned before, that is apparently good.

Wednesday -- Not a good day...as Tuesday evening was an all nighter at work after the game. I did get about 4 hours of sleep mid-afternoon. No flexibility as I was headed to bed at that time. Though I have gotten most of the exercises in, just not good at stretching and getting meds on the foot.

Thursday & Friday -- Not sure what happened these days. I apparently even forgot to log into work on Firday.

Saturday -- I did a lot of standing during the work holiday party, but that was about it.

Sunday -- Another bad day with a mid-day nap. I still feel like I have been ran over from the early half of the week. I am really hoping the afternoon nap will help but I was still pretty tired Monday morning when I woke up.

Next Monday, I head back to the foot doctor. We will see what he has to say.

La Semana Veinteuno: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Veinteuno (Thanksgiving Week): Monday, December 1, 2014 -- 211.4 lbs

La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)
La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

A rough week trying to stay on top of all my exercises and stretches, especially 3 times a day. Work has kept me late several nights and then the Thanksgiving holiday. Wednesday was probably the best day of the week. I have done at least something everyday but not to the necessary level.

I head back to the foot doctor in 2 weeks to see the status of my left foot. I thought the pain was getting better as it was centered more at the ankle than down the top of the foot, but after Friday, it seemed to have progressed back down the foot a bit.

Hopefully, this week will be better though after last night. I am not expecting that to be the case. This and the rest of the year are very busy day and night, but hopefully many of the busy are blessed busyness.

A Season of New Beginnings

As I thought about today, the first day of Advent 2014, I am reminded of all the new beginnings that are part of this time of year.

Thanksgiving Day - November 27, 2014

A day marked by the joining of the Pilgrims and Indians in a meal of thanks for the wonderful harvest and new friends and family. Thanksgiving continues to be celebrated across the United States as a time to gather with friends and family to give thanks to all the blessings received over the years. It is a time to reconnect and enjoy the company and love of those dear to us. May your life be full of thanks and remember that we are called to give thanks daily for the blessings in our lives.

1st Day of Advent - Sunday, November 30, 2014

Today marks the start of a new year in the Catholic Church. The new year fittingly begins with Advent a time of preparation for the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Not only are we called to prepare for Christ's birth on Christmas Day but reminded to live daily in anticipation of Christ's second coming. 

The Advent season consists of the 4 Sundays prior to Jesus birth on Christmas Day. As we step into this new church year, we are challenged to take a step back to reflect on how our lives are beacons of Christ's light to all those we encounter.

• How do you share Christ's light to your parents, children, husband/wife, grandparents, and other family members, to your friends, coworkers, neighbors, and people on the street or in the store?
• As we begin this new church year, what are ways you plan to take time to listen and speak with our Father, to deepen that relationship with Him?
• Are you ready for Christ's second coming today? If not, what changes shall you make to be prepared for His second coming and celebration of Christ's birth on Christmas Day?

Birthday - December 11, 2014 

Two weeks prior to celebrating Christ's birth is another special birth in my life, the day in which I came into this world as a living being called to be a disciple of Christ. This past year has been a year full of many blessings and reminders of my call to be disciple of Christ. I pray that as all these new beginnings are upon us that I take the opportunity to be more diligent about stopping to listen to our Father and to be a beacon of light to all those I encounter. I pray for guidance and direction through a time of discernment of God's calling in my life.

Christmas Day – December 25, 2015

On Christmas Day, the journey of Christ began with His humble birth in a manger. As we start the journey remembering His life and adventures to the Cross, we are reminded of our humble existence, that life struggles equip us with strength to endure future challenges, and that He came to save us from our sins as we are not perfect but all loved sons & daughters of God. We are here to share His love to all and to do good for the betterment of our world until we come to rest in Heaven.

New Year’s Day – January 1, 2015

Many people look at this day as the start of a new year/new beginning as we celebrate a national/worldly holiday with the start of a new calendar year. For Catholics, it is also a celebration of the Solemnity of Mary-Mother of God, a celebration of Mary as mother of Jesus. Solemnity of Mary is celebrated this ‘eighth day’ of Christmas, which accordingly was the day of Jesus circumcision and given his name. Instead of setting new goals/beginnings, may we look at the challenges we placed in front of us at our own birth or the start of the new church year and renew the promises we made to ourselves and to our Lord at those new beginnings?

May this season of new beginnings be one full of blessings, love, and reflection!

Thanks to all who read this blog and silently provide prayers and support for me and all those in our world!

La Semana Veinte: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Veinte: Monday, November 24, 2014 -- 212.4 lbs (14.4 lbs -- 20 Weeks; .2 -- Past 10 Weeks)
La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks) La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

Time flies faster and faster, day after day, year after year....
20 weeks into the latest attempt to become healthier and in better shape. It has had its ups and downs to say the least but things do seem to be continuing in a positive direction. The next few weeks of course will be a challenge as Thanksgiving, Birthday, Christmas, and New Years are all upon us.

And this week was definitely not a good start to the holiday season...

You say oh it is not that bad...Let's just take a look at what I know is or has been in store starting this past week.
- Thursday, Nov. 20 -- Business Department Potluck
- Sunday, Nov. 22 -- Thanksgiving Dinner with Church Friends
- Tuesday, Nov. 25 -- Business Analyst Potluck
- Thursday, Nov. 27 -- Thanksgiving
- Friday, Nov. 28 -- Europe Reunion ??
- Wednesday, Dec. 17 -- Young Adults & Professionals Christmas Potluck & White Elephant Party
- Birthday Celebrations Somewhere
- Wednesday, Dec. 24 -- Christmas Dinner followed by Christmas Eve Appetizers
- Thursday, Dec. 25 -- ?

What's happened this first week with no actual physical therapy...
Monday -- A rough day at work but was able to do the therapy exercises though only part of the days stretches.
Tuesday -- Flexibility class, therapy exercises, and baking for Friday night coffee house.
Wednesday -- A crazy day of work including working 4+ hours in the evening until midnight, then making Sausage Balls. Exercises and stretches faltered pretty good.
Thursday -- Rough morning. I did make it to flexibility but that was about it. Potluck plus nice hamburger & fries with car folks.
Friday -- No flexibility. I did complete all the exercises but just one set of stretches.
Saturday -- Partial home therapy and house cleaning
Sunday -- Partial home therapy and mashed potato making

Have a very happy and safe Thanksgiving! 

La Semana Diecinueve: Towards Healthy Living

Welcome Winter & the First Real Snowfall!!!

La Semana Diecinueve: Monday, November 17, 2014 -- 210.0  lbs
La Semana Dieciocho: Monday, November 10, 2014 -- 211.2 lbs
La Semana Diecisiete: Monday, November 3, 2014 -- 211.6 lbs
La Semana Dieciseis: Monday, October 27, 2014 -- 209.4 lbs
La Semana Quince: Monday, October 20, 2014 -- 211 lbs (15.8 lbs -- 15 weeks)

La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)

La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

This week marks the conclusion of physical therapy. I had two appointments this week on Monday and Wednesday. She finished the iontophoresis treatment and the soft tissue coconut cream treatment. She said that everything there was looking better and improving. Therefore, the other things that she is doing are exercises/stretches that I can take home and complete myself. So now I have to stay dedicated to doing them.

I also asked about when I could start hiking again. She said when I can walk without pain. Really not what, I wanted to hear as I was really hoping to get out sometime soon, if I could find a free moment to try to do some hiking.

The doctor said things appeared to be improving the movement of pain towards the ankle was a good sign. I wasn't feeling pain/numbness shoot down the foot either when he tapped at the top of the foot. Though the top of the foot still has numbing sensation and there is pain when I press down on my foot or pull up on my toes. Plus there is pain around the ankles from all the exercises. He said there is still neuropathy in the ankle area. I am to increase the cream treatment to at minimum 3 times a day. I return to see the doctor on the 15th of December until then I will work to continue my exercises and increase my hip and ankle strength.

Once I get back out hiking, we can see if anything good has come from the hip strengthening to improve the knees.

Monday -- Physical Therapy & Home Therapy; 16-min kart racing :)
Tuesday -- Home Therapy
Wednesday -- Physical Therapy (last one for now) & Home Therapy; Flexibility
Thursday -- Home Therapy with a lot of new exercises. Good thing I know my ABC's as I have to write them with my foot on a daily basis. Flexibility
Friday -- What a long exhausting day...I did my ankle therapy but not the hip therapy. My hips needed a break.
Saturday -- Ankle and hip therapy. Also attended a church workshop on the Gospels & Pope Francis. Then did a bit of standing at church at the Young Adults & Professionals table during the Stewardship Fair.
Sunday -- A lot of standing again at the Stewardship Fair. Not as good at stretching three times throughout the day but did get the actual exercises completed.

PS Please pray for safety of travel for all in the snow, especially me until the tires get changed out as they are not snow worthy tires.

La Semana Dieciocho: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Dieciocho: Monday, November 10, 2014 -- 211.2 lbs
La Semana Diecisiete: Monday, November 3, 2014 -- 211.6 lbs
La Semana Dieciseis: Monday, October 27, 2014 -- 209.4 lbs
La Semana Quince: Monday, October 20, 2014 -- 211 lbs (15.8 lbs -- 15 weeks)

La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)

La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

A busy past week, as I prepared for a Young Adult & Professionals Retreat on the Seven Virtues & Vices of the Catholic Church. We had a great weekend out in the country, relaxing and rejuvenating. The next big thing on the schedule is helping with a one-day intergenerational Advent retreat in December, preparing to head to Guatemala again over New Year's, and some church programming in the Spring.

The holiday season is also upon us so I pray that I can manage my desires and wants to eat all the yummy things placed in front of me as we celebrate Thanksgiving, my birthday, my godson's birthday, and Christmas.

Today, Monday, I have a follow-up doctor appointment with the foot doctor and then therapy in the evening due to the need to adjust this week's therapy schedule. I think the foot is progressing in a positive direction. There is still pain on the top of the foot closer to the ankle. Lately, the heel and plantar fasciitis have not seen to be as inflamed even after being on my foot a lot Friday and Saturday. I'll report next week on the updates from the doc and therapist.

Monday -- Home Therapy & Flexibility Class
Tuesday & Thursday -- Home Therapy, Flexibility Class, & Physical Therapy
     8 minutes on the bike along with stretches and ankle exercises followed by electrode therapy & iontophoresis
Wednesday -- Home Therapy worked through Flexibility Class
Friday -- Work, Cooking, Annual Young Adult Retreat Weekend, Home Therapy
Saturday -- Annual young adult retreat weekend, spiritual time and service cleaning the place in which we called home for the weekend. Home Therapy, which included new ankle exercises.
Sunday -- Couple blocks of walking to and from church; Laundry; Unpacking; Home Therapy

La Semana Diecisiete: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Diecisiete: Monday, November 3, 2014 -- 211.6 lbs
La Semana Dieciseis: Monday, October 27, 2014 -- 209.4 lbs
La Semana Quince: Monday, October 20, 2014 -- 211 lbs (15.8 lbs -- 15 weeks)

La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)

La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs


Still limping along not sure how things really are progressing. The left foot still has pain though the pain currently has moved from closer to the toes towards the middle of the foot, which in turn also means it is aggravated with slightly different movements of the  foot. I spoke to the doctors office on Friday and she said to continue the therapy and the 3 times a day cream therapy. Then we scheduled a follow-up for next Monday with the doctor.

Besides the anterior tarsal tunnel syndrome on the top of the foot, the foot also is fighting a heel spur and plantar fasciitis. The coconut therapy being performed for several weeks on the calf, shin, ankles, and bottom of the foot has seen progress. She says the calf and shin muscles are not in knots and gritty. The ankles are improving while the bottom of the foot still needs more work. Granted we started the bottom of the foot and ankles after the calf and shin so hopefully with a few more treatments those will be good to go as well.

Monday
Actually was a good day of following through on home therapy stretches and hip exercises.

Tuesday
Not so good on home therapy but physical therapy and completed the 8 mins on the bike followed by some new ankle/foot exercises. And also didn't make it to flexibility class due to a meeting schedule on top of it.

Wednesday
Home therapy and flexibility class

Thursday
Decent work on home therapy, flexibility class, and physical therapy with 8 mins on the bike which was a bit slower than normal weeks only completing about 2 miles instead of 2.3 miles. We continue to do the electrode therapy on the top & bottom of the foot. This time we moved it towards the center/arch of the foot due to the movement of the pain. Also continued the iontophoresis with dexamethasone treatment after the electrode therapy, but this week moved the treatment from point of pain to point of entrapment of the nerve. I think it does help some initially.

Friday
Home therapy and flexibility class.

Saturday
Home therapy. Accomplished a bit of laundry. Made homemade banana bread. Now, the goal is to not eat it all in a couple of days.

Sunday
Home therapy. Fixed breakfast and lunch for the week. Greek yogurt, frozen fruit, and salad.  



Eating habits are struggling the last few weeks with being so busy and somewhat stressed, I have not been making it to the store to get appropriate things. I hope this week to get back to eating salads for lunch.

La Semana Dieciséis: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Dieciseis: Monday, October 27, 2014 --209.4 lbs
La Semana Quince: Monday, October 20, 2014 -- 211 lbs (15.8 lbs -- 15 weeks)

La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)

La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

Tuesday & Thursday 
Physical Therapy days with 2.2+ miles on the bike. Not a lot of other physical activity with the issues surrounding the foot.  After Thursday, it was determined to change the focus of therapy to specifically the left foot and the other areas playing a roll in the foot pain. Currently doing a lot of electrode and medicine therapy on the top of the foot.

Monday, Wednesday, & Thursday
Normal flexibility class, at home PT exercises & stretches

Friday
At home PT exercises & stretches, no flexibility class as I worked from home.

Saturday
At home PT exercises and stretches; walked a bit around the Autocross Test & Tune down in Bowling Green

Sunday
Last autocross of the season. Walking of the course and around the site. So I failed to turn off or pause the 2nd workout therefore it has me walking 115.13 miles on Sunday, which though I walked a lot is inaccurate.

2.7 miles of course walking plus probably another mile of just general walking around for the day as well as a nice day of actual racing. The bad thing is I did a very poor job of hydrating myself both Saturday & Sunday so I am going to be playing catchup again for awhile.

I hope you are having a great week and staying motivated to stay in shape and be healthy!

La Semana Quince: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Quince: Monday, October 20, 2014 -- 211 lbs (15.8 lbs -- 15 weeks)

La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)

La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

Wow...15 weeks and 15.8  lbs. Two memorable trips over the past 15 weeks, Guatemala and then Europe (Portugal, Spain, France). In 10 weeks with God's grace, I will be back in Guatemala to share His love, heart, and hands with those there.

Besides the loss in weight over the past 15 weeks, my lab numbers have improved since the first part of April.
Cholesterol: April 4 -> Sept 30
Total                 272      239
Triglycerides     268      251
HDL                 41        46   (In Range)
VLDL               54        50
LDL                 177       143
Ratio                 4.3       3.1 (In Range)

Vitamin D         23.6      46.0
Insulin              23.2      22.6

White blood cell, Hematocrit, and Neutrophils (Absolute) are all still high.

In addition to seeing the general doctor, I also went back to the Sleep Center to review my first month of CPAP usage. I am having no obstructive situations with the machine. I still question, if this is what is really causing my sleep issues. I still wake up throughout the night almost like clock-work. I still feel tired in the afternoon/evening and can sleep real well on the couch in the afternoon/evening. He said that losing some more weight can help and maybe lead to not needing the machine at all. Therefore, we will keep trying to get down closer to my college graduating weight. There is still lots to go though.

And if that was not enough doctor visits, I also went back to the foot doctor. Current diagnosis is anterior tarsal tunnel syndrome. It is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but in the ankle. It manifests itself on the top of the foot due to tendon across the ankle and front of the foot pinching the nerves down the foot. I have read a bit and the pain in the middle of the 1st and 2nd toe is common with this as well as the tingling when the nerve is hit down the top of the foot. He prescribed some nerve cream which should arrive by Monday and also a suggestion for the physical therapist. We will see what DC has to say on Tuesday and where therapy goes from here.

This past week workouts...
Monday - Flexibility, HPT, and PT (8 mins on the bike, 2.2+ miles; electrode therapy btwn toes; coconut therapy calf, shin, ankle, bottom of foot)
Tuesday - Flexibility and HPT
Wednesday - Flexibility, HPT, PT (8 mins on the bike, 2.2+ miles; electrode therapy btwn toes; coconut therapy calf, shin, ankle, bottom of foot)
Thursday - HPT Partial lots of doctors visits and a very long nights sleep into Friday morning
Friday - HPT, Grocery Shopping, Laundry
Saturday - Walking around Georgetown's campus for homecoming followed by hanging out with KB, CB, and the boys (2 3.5 yr olds and 1 10 months old)
Sunday - Last autocross of the season in Lexington. About 3 miles walked. Last event until next spring is next week.

On Monday evening late, I started getting a sore throat that lasted into Wednesday. By Wednesday afternoon, massive sinus pressure was invading my head/nasal cavity area which lasted throughout Thursday. Mostly clear but some slight yellow discharge.

Well that is one large update for you. Thanks again for all of your support, prayers, and helping me stay accountable.

Until next week, blessings from God!

PS La Semana = Week

La Semana Catorce: Towards Healthy Living

La Semana Catorce: Monday, October 13, 2014 -- 210.0 lbs
La Semana Trece: Monday, October 6, 2014 -- 210.8 lbs
La Semana Doce: Monday, September 28, 2014 -- 211 lbs
La Semana Once: Monday, September 22, 2014 -- 210.8 lbs

La Semana Diez: Monday, September 15, 2014 -- 212.6 lbs (14.2 lbs -- 10 Weeks)

La Semana Cero: Monday, July 7, 2014 -- 226.8 lbs

Monday - Flexibility class and home therapy exercises and stretches.

Tuesday - Dr appointment 100/60 blood pressure that is like the best I have heard in awhile. 212 lbs on these scales, which was apparently exactly the same from my last visit (April 2013) so I will take that. 5'7.5"

Physical Therapy, 2.2 miles on the bike. More exercises, stretching, and coconut therapy on the left lower leg and foot. Overall, my left foot was bothering me more Wednesday & Thursday.

Wednesday - Flexibility class...too much food with an entire building food day. Trip down to the ball courts for food and another to check out the dunk tank. A couple throws and a hit of the dunk tank followed but 2/3 basketball shots on top of the 3-point line. Amazing..first shot up and swoosh, not sure I could do that again.

Thursday -- 10 minute deep shoulder & neck massage; Physical Therapy, 2.3 miles on the bike. I was averaging 16 mph versus 15.5 mph in previous PT days. Not a lot of exercises today as still focusing on the left foot that is injured. Completed some ankle exercises, continued coconut therapy on the lower leg and foot, and electric therapy on the foot. Prescribed home therapy exercises and stretches. Flexibility class.

Bluegrass Indoor Karting (BIK) -- 2 8-minute races around the track

Friday -- Flexibility class focused on some back stretches. Home Therapy.

Saturday -- House cleaning, bathrooms, kitchen and a bed change, followed by a nice nap and overall a rather lazy day. 1 BIK race. Part of Home Therapy.

Sunday -- Autocross 2+ miles of walking around the course and parking lot. Followed by a race around the track at BIK. Home Therapy.

This week, I have two doctors appointments. One with the sleep doctor and the other with the general doctor. I will report on lab work next week or in a separate post once I meet with the doctor on Thursday. I will say though the numbers are still high many of the numbers have improved from April. There also may be another trip to the foot doctor. I will see how things feel in the morning.

Thanks again for all of you who are still following me! May this be encouraging to you to stay in shape and healthy or to get in shape and healthy. I know that hearing others stories helps me.