Thursday, May 23, 2013

Making Lemonade

Hi Everyone,

How are you doing?  I'm trying to make some lemonade out of a huge lemon that came my way last Friday.  Sound familiar?  I'm sure you've heard that phrase:  When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Lemonade.  Most of you already know of my recent news, but to get everyone on the same page it is this:  My artificial hip has been recalled, and I learned about a week ago that it needs to be taken out.  I thought I'd pass all of the tests with flying colors, since I've been feeling so good, but the MRI shows pockets of fluid that are forming, and if left untouched, the muscles surrounding the joint will die.  The problem with the current prosthesis is that it has a separate neck piece that is inserted into the stem.  Because of that metal on metal contact, there can be problems with corrosion, and complications therein.  So, that is that, and here is how I am making lemonade.  I hope my optimism will motivate you when life gives you lemons.

*I'll get to spend quality time with family and friends.
*I'll finally have to slow myself down, which means I will (hopefully) finish my healthy workbook for kids, and either self publish, or aggressively try to find a publisher.
*I will become even more resilient to stresses that come my way.
*I will have my house in ship-shape condition right before the surgery, and will have crossed many things off of the To Do list.
*I'll finally read some good books and watch some good movies.
*And, hey, maybe I'll even lose some unwanted weight (from fasting for surgery, and eating hospital food) without having to try too hard!

Seriously, things can always be worse.  I don't have to look too far to see examples of that in other people's lives.  Now, I shall leave you with a few pieces of information to ponder:

*Soybeans are such champs.  They contain all of the following:  protein, fiber, iron, potassium, calcium, omega 3 and omega 6.  Try ordering a dish with tofu sometime.  Or, how about soy milk on cereal? You might just find that you like it. 

*I saw this quote in the Nutrition Action Newsletter, and it really rang true to me:  "Don't eat more of anything without eating less of something else."  Are you eating more fruits and vegetables?  What are you eating less of?

*If you are feeling down, why not get a pencil and paper and write down a list of things that you have accomplished and endured in your life?  All of those items make up who you are, whether they were positive or negative experiences.  Here are some examples:  moving; divorce; raising a pet; the loss of a pet; winning an award; childbirth; graduations; losing a family member; trips you have taken.  You could even make a journal out of it, calling it: Passages. 

That's it for May. As usual, I wish you wellness, in every facet of your life:  physically, emotionally, personally, socially, intellectually and ethically.  Take care! And, hey, if you feel thirsty on a nice hot day, try some lemonade!

Mary R.


Wednesday, May 1, 2013

How is Everyone?

Hi Everyone,

How are you doing?  Are you enjoying watching the spring flowers share their beauty with us? I sure am.  It's the little joys in life that put that extra bounce in my step.  Is it the same for you? Do tell.  I'd love to hear from you.

Shoot, May arrived before I could complete my April post! My goal has always been to write one post a month.  So, maybe I'll write another post this month, to make up for my procrastination last month.

Today I was thinking about the title of my blog, The Fit Optimist.  Sheesh, that sounds a little over confident.  I will stand by the "Optimist"  part.  Lucky me, to wake up happy, positive and energetic everyday.  It must just be in my blood.  Now, the "Fit" part needs some clarification.  After all, I'm sure I could push myself much harder physically.  For example, I could do interval training; or, I could go for longer distances/higher resistance.   I use the term 'fit' because I work out pretty much daily, and I love working out so much that sometimes I tell myself I should take at least one day off a week!  The secret?  Well, I think at this point perhaps it's the endorphins I crave.  Who knows?  All I know is that  if my gym was a person, I'd marry it! Wait, now I'm confused.  I've always said I'd marry my bike if it was a person.  So, maybe I believe in polygamy.  Hey, I could be the Fit Polygamist! 

 Most of all, I think it's best to find a variety of activities that you enjoy, because that's a good way to use a variety of muscle groups.  Plus, everyone needs to find those activities that help rather than hinder their physical condition.  I now know for sure that I should never run again, for medical reasons.  That's a tough pill to swallow, but a smart one, if I listen to the voice of reason, and to my own body.  So, biking, swimming, weights, and walking can be my safe path to take.  And, why not try canoeing?  Cross-country skiing? (Because I hate the cold!!!!)  Oops, that wasn't very optimistic of me.

I shall now leave you with a few tidbits that I have discovered lately in my ongoing wellness research:

*If there is a food, such as ice cream, that is the food you go to when stressed, tell yourself that you will still allow yourself that food item, but you can't purchase it for your home. You would have to go out to a restaurant in order to consume it.  At least that way, (hopefully), you wouldn't be able to overdo as much or as often.

*If you are asked to bring a food item to a potluck, consider bringing a veggie or a fruit plate.  You could even bring some light Ranch dressing for the veggies. Then you'll have at least one healthy choice to fall back on. The other guests will be grateful, too.

*Having a hard time at a buffet or potluck?  Give yourself permission to have at least one spoonful of anything you want to eat.

*What do you keep in your car at all times?  Here are a few suggestions:  Healthy snacks that do not require refrigeration: almonds, granola bars, or dried fruit; sugar-free gum; a first-aid kit; emergency numbers; and exercise clothes, especially a pair of old tennis shoes, in case you have an opportunity to walk, or if you ever NEED to walk, to try to get help. 

Most of today's tips are just plain common sense, but how many of us have tried them all?  Not I!  But,  I shall especially try that last suggestion.  My dad would be proud.

All for now!  Have a happy and healthy May.

Mary