Back to an Earlier Square

I'm not sure it is Square One but it is not where I was a while ago.

First there's the weight. I have gone back up to over 200 pounds again. Bummer. I have not been following a diet nor exercising. When I have exercised in the past month it has been all about the bicycle which helps cardio but has not helped the overall stamina or fitness which has led to more eating of unhealthy (though certainly wonderful) foods. The result is not pretty. When my brother and I saw a picture of ourselves together earlier in the month we were both upset by what we saw. I haven't asked him what he has done about it because I know my answer will be: Nothing.

But I did take a step this week- I met with a trainer at the Healthy Living Center. We worked out a fitness/exercise program for the next few months. All it will take is a return to the commitment and consistency I had when I started the road to the 60 Mile Bike Hike. This one will be the road to 175 pounds and a trip to the Boundary Waters next summer.

The second step back is with the ever-present issue of my lower back. Stenosis, arthritis (and a too big stomach with too much weight) have moved me back to the periods of pain and numbness that plagued me in late winter and early spring. So it's back for another epidural injection to reduce swelling etc. and allow the nerves to settle down for a while. Hopefully this time I will manage to continue the exercise and weight-loss that will allow the back to stay better.

In any case I am looking forward to at least a month or more of pain and numbness-free walking.