Walking Through The Rain

Today was a gray and rainy Friday in the Northeast. Even though the temperature was around 60 degrees, it seemed to chill me to the bone.

However, in order to keep my promise to myself to try to walk EVERY DAY, I headed out with my rain gear on to see how far I could go before getting too soaked and cold. I didn't get as far as earlier this week, only around the block, but I did have to time think and listen to a few songs on my iPod. I got thinking about how much has changed since last Fall.

I was diagnosed with Celiac Disease in November last year. A pretty big deal, having to totally change the way I've eaten for 46 years. Also, a big deal for my family, who have had to change their habits as well, such as trying new and "interesting" GF foods and finding restaurants I can eat in. They have also had to listen to me whine a lot about the foods and restaurants that I miss. The good news is that I guess I am feeling better, in the tummy area, but I need to schedule my annual follow-up appointment with my gastro doc to see what the tests show.

In December, I began my journey of the dueling herniated discs, which led to my cervical fusion surgery in March. Another big change for myself and my family. The recovery has been slower than we all expected. I guess I'm a work in progress. Lots of lingering nerve issues. More whining. More missing things that I used to take for granted, like sleeping comfortably or finding a comfortable position anywhere for that matter! The heating pad is a permanent fixture around my neck. Taking medication has not been something I've ever liked doing, not even Tylenol for me unless absolutely necessary. Now it's become a normal, daily event to take my little nerve pills, just to be able to function in a "normal" way. Some days, I even have trouble signing sales receipts when my hands are particularly shaky. Is that my signature or a 90 year-old woman's???

Walking through my neighborhood makes me feel my "most normal". Even in the cold rain. Even when my feet feel like I'm wearing lead boots. I'm still here and I'm still walking....

I have family and friends who are battling much larger challenges than mine. Walking reminds me of that with every step I take.

Speaking of family, my wonderful, (currently stinky) husband just returned home from running another 5K. Yes, at dusk in the cold rain. He has had more than his share of spinal surgeries and medical issues. He ran his first half-marathon a couple of weeks ago. Whether he realizes it or not, he is my daily inspiration and that voice in my head that says "come on - just one more step!"