How Summer's Going

Summer 2025 is more than half over and it's going very well. The less animal products I eat the better I feel physically. I'm also have a lot less pain, especially at night. This is a huge leap from the person I used to be. Someone who would lay in bed at night and cry from the pain. 

I very quickly went from using a motor cart to shop to not even using my handicapped parking. And this...

I haven't seen the dimple in my "bad leg" in at least six years. It's usually always swollen no matter what I do. But now it's almost as strong as the other one. I've been biking and swimming, so I'm sure that combined with my diet is why.

This is how I feel. Like I'm "almost me again." It's the best feeling in the world.

I've been pushing myself, but paying close attention to my limits. I did a mile and a half walk with my husband yesterday and made 10,000 steps for the first time since I became ill.

Right now I eat a vegetarian diet with minimal dairy. And the dairy I do eat is usually fermented, like yogurt. I use oat milk in my smoothie and just eat a lot of Buddha bowls and Mexican with no cheese. The biggest dairy I eat is eggs, which don't seem to bother me.

I've gone from riding my wheelchair to the pool to swim with my mom to riding my electric bike! And yes, I do peddle. 

I work out with pool noodles and water weights about three days a week.

Another accomplishment this summer, no fear of being in the pool alone.

My mom observed that both of us usually feel our best during the summer. I agree. I think I am the most physically active, despite the horrible heat. I also tend to naturally eat a bit lighter and not quite as much.

I have felt hungry almost every night in bed. But I'm down to 281, which is a big deal for me. I'll be so happy to break through the 280's. What a wonderful summer of success!