Struggling

Monday, March 25, 2013

I'm not sure where to begin on this blog. But my purpose is to begin to become happier and stronger. Right now, I am struggling with insomnia and depression. Because of this my weight is slowly creeping up. I'm not sure which comes first the insomnia or the depression. I think it's the insomnia causing the depression, but it's really hard to say after everything that has happened.

I do take a trycylic antidepressant to help me sleep. Without taking it I am up more than I am asleep. But even with it I am only getting about 4-6 hours a night. I need to take my Mom to a doctor appointment this week, so can't take any more time off at end of the month. I will need to see the doctor next week. I so do not want to go.

So, this week, my goal is simple. I want to resume doing some of the things I used to enjoy doing. I want to stick to a schedule since I seem to do best. So, Monday, Wednesday, Friday I will work out at the club. I may not run/ jog maybe just walk. I don't think it matters as long as I begin the routine. Tuesday/ Thursday if there is sunshine and warm weather a short walk after work would be great.

I know these first steps will be the hardest, but I just have to remember that these are things I really like doing.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

CAKEMAKERMOM 3/25/2013 10:45AM

Acknowledging you need to change something is the first step, doing something about it is the second. Keep on doing the best thing for you! Report Inappropriate Comment

AMYTRIPP 3/25/2013 9:09AM

I'm so proud of you taking this first step - having a person in my house who battles depression and insomnia, I know how hard it is to rile yourself to get moving. I think sticking to a schedule is your best bet. Good luck with it all, my friend. Report Inappropriate Comment

EBONYSOL 3/25/2013 8:01AM

Routines are good as long as you are not so depressed that you need a forklift to come and get you out of bed. So rather than setting yourself up, pick one goal that you want to do. After you have been successful with that goal for a week or two then add another one. Sleep - the sometimes elusive but necessary ingredient for a good life. You may have developed a tolerance to your medication and need to increase or change it. Little sleep means stress which means increased cortisol resulting in weight gain. Now there is a good reason to see your doctor. Consistency is the key and asking for help from your doctor, friends and family. Do not underestimate depression and insomnia. They feed off each other and can wreak havoc on your life. Good luck at getting back on track. By the way, I speak from experience - 35 years worth. Report Inappropriate Comment

AMALIA8 3/25/2013 7:34AM

I also do better on a schedule and since I don't have a job right now, you'd think that would mean I have more time for this stuff. However, the depression is getting to me and I just want to hide and do what I want. I'm running out of money and time though so I know I need to get off my butt and do better. I love your plan of getting back into a routine! You will find that it helps a lot. I know I feel more in control and less likely to give into cravings or bad feelings if I have a plan. Keep up the awesome work! Report Inappropriate Comment

Long time, no blog (1 Year SP)

Monday, January 14, 2013

I see me last blog was back in November as we were moving my Mom. We moved her essentials in November. But, with the holidays are now moving the rest of her things. January 26th is when the moving truck is scheduled. After that we will have to paint the walls, clean carpets and find places for the rest of her furniture.

It's been a difficult last year in many ways. Yet, physically and emotionally I am much stronger than a year ago when I began my journey. I am apx 40 pounds thinner than when I began my journey. I have faced many obstacles to be where I am today: depression, high blood pressure, bursitis, my daughter's spinal surgery, my Dad's death, Mom having progressive dementia.

Some of days I am still having to continually renew my commitment to myself to continue. I have days of doubt and tremendous sadness. So, I will continue my journey as I began. One step at a time, not looking too far ahead. I will count every victory no matter how small each and everyday. I will find joy each day. I will remember to speak positively about myself. And, I will set some new goals for the new year.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

AMYTRIPP 1/15/2013 6:24AM

You've done amazing - and all that against the backdrop of a really tough year. Keep plugging along, what you're doing for yourself is so important. Report Inappropriate Comment

CAKEMAKERMOM 1/14/2013 10:39PM

You've come far! I hope this year is better for you than the last. Keep on Sparkin' and remember that each day is a chance to start over. Report Inappropriate Comment

Moving Mom to Assisted Living

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Hello!

Just a quick note to my sparkfriends, that an opening happened in the Assisted Living Apartments my Mom is wanting. She will be moving on Saturday. As I have two days to prepare for the move, I will not be on Sparkpeople until after the move is completed.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

AMALIA8 12/4/2012 5:22PM

Glad to hear your Mom got in to the Assisted Living Apartments she wanted. That's awesome! We'll miss ya, but you'll be back soon! Keep up the awesome work! Report Inappropriate Comment

FRAN0426 11/29/2012 10:36PM

It is nice when one can get into the assisted home they like the best. My mom enjoyed the assisted living home she lived in for several years before she passed. My sister and I were happy that she liked where she lived, as that is so important. Report Inappropriate Comment

BARBARAHOBBIT 11/29/2012 10:56AM

So pleased to hear your Mom has the move she wanted. It will make life so much better for her, and will also take a lot of worry away from you knowing she is safe and secure and happy. Take care of yourself too, don't get overdoing things, Babs xxxx Report Inappropriate Comment

AMYTRIPP 11/29/2012 9:10AM

That's wonderful that she gets to go to the assisted living apartment she liked!! Good luck with the move! Report Inappropriate Comment

RIDLEYRIDER 11/29/2012 6:52AM

My mom was in assisted living for the last 2 years of her life, and she loved it! Good luck! Report Inappropriate Comment

AZMOMXTWO 11/29/2012 6:44AM

please don't forget her once she is moved many times people get too busy once they are no longer helping a loved one and they no longer have the time to go visit Report Inappropriate Comment

My Mom

Monday, October 22, 2012

Just a note to let you know that I had to take my Mom to the hospital last night as she was very confused. It turns out she was dehydrated and has a UTI. They are keeping her for observation, OT and PT today. So, hoping if she is fine that she will be discharged today.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

AMYTRIPP 10/26/2012 9:46AM

I hope she's doing better! *hugs* Report Inappropriate Comment

JESSYVIRGINY 10/22/2012 3:42PM

Hope you mom is feeling better. Report Inappropriate Comment

BARBARAHOBBIT 10/22/2012 1:33PM

Sorry to hear about your Mom Julie, I hope she is feeling much better really soon - it must have given you some anxious moments too, so take it easy. Love to you both, Babs xxxx Report Inappropriate Comment

CAKEMAKERMOM 10/22/2012 11:09AM

Hopefully she's back on track today and feeling better. Report Inappropriate Comment

LGAR519 10/22/2012 10:47AM

I'm sorry to hear that. I hope she gets home soon and does well. Praying for you both! Report Inappropriate Comment

RICOCHETBEAR 10/22/2012 9:16AM

I pray all is well with you and your mom today, hon. Take care Report Inappropriate Comment

Hip Bursitis with tendonitis

Saturday, October 06, 2012

I visited the orthopedist, and he confirmed that it is hip bursitis with tendonitis. They gave me a hydrocortizone injection to help with the inflammation. I will also need to visit a physical therapist for a while.

So, it will be a little slower than I had anticipated in returning to my usual exercise schedule. I will see the therapist once a week and will then need to practice each day. That will give me something to do to help my progress. I also did the chair video on SparkPeople yesterday. That was a pretty good work out, at least I can push myself a little and still not use my right leg.

All this makes me reflect on my goals. Obviously, I want to lose the last 10 pounds and burning calories through exercising is not going to cut it right now.

Goals:

1. Eat five fruits/ veggies a day.
2. Exercise daily (gentle exercise at first)
3. Stay in calorie range
4. Limit foods with no nutritional value (Eat fruit instead)

OK, feels good to have an action plan and something to work on each day.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

GIRLALLIN 10/18/2012 8:20AM

Your determination to push on in spite of what must be very painful is making me feel guilty about how whiny I've been lately in regards to my own efforts - which is really a very good gift! I hope you are feeling better soon and I will think of you when I get my butt back on the treadmill and do a mile with you in mind. Report Inappropriate Comment

JESSYVIRGINY 10/10/2012 9:10PM

goals hope you feel better soon Report Inappropriate Comment

AMYTRIPP 10/7/2012 2:04PM

I'm sorry to hear about you hip. Ouch! I've had hip bursitis. Not fun! Just keep pushing and you'll lose those 10. Report Inappropriate Comment

BARBARAHOBBIT 10/6/2012 2:18PM

Hiya Julie, It looks like they couldn't make a decent one body between the two of us at the moment - lol - I'm sorry to hear you are suffering, but happy that you are getting the right treatment and support. It is difficult when you are limited in movement, but with so many good videos on site it is possible to have a decent workout. I am on my feet again, shuffling a bit still, but not too bad now at all. We can shuffle our way back to good health together my Friend. Sending you love and Hobbit Hugs. Babs xxxx Report Inappropriate Comment

CAKEMAKERMOM 10/6/2012 1:19PM

Looks like you know how to overcome this hurdle instead of letting it derail you. May you have all the success in the world to get to the goal you set for yourself! Report Inappropriate Comment

RICOCHETBEAR 10/6/2012 12:04PM

Well I am glad you have the name of what is going on with your hip. That's great that you have tried the chair exercises. Coach Nicole has 3 of them available. Your goals are sensible, I am sure you will be able to fulfill them. Take care of yourself. I added your name to my prayers of quick healing for your daughter a few days ago Report Inappropriate Comment