A state of perceptual anesthesia?

I saw this shirt that said, “To be in true love is just like being in a state of perceptual anesthesia.” It made me think of my girlfriend. I don’t mean because of the love, but because of the anesthesia. She’s miserable and hates the thought of it. I’ve never had any issues and feel great after any surgery, where I got a great nap (at least that’s what I call it).

It made me realize how we’re all unique and have different answers to the questions of who, what, where, why, and how of humans. Some are naturally fast, while others struggle to keep up, despite being the same height and weight. 

Then some are twice the weight and run faster than half their weight. No matter what we try, some are geographically challenged, while others can easily find their way around any city without a map. Some can enjoy a beer, and those who can’t enjoy one (alcoholism). Is this all genetics? Is it all because of our environment? Is it the long-lasting effect of good decisions or bad decisions? Will I ever know?

Recently, at our office, we experienced the loss of a middle-aged woman to cancer. This is my fourth friend in five years to succumb to this disease. Notably, the most recent victim had a healthy lifestyle, smoked occasionally, and maintained a balanced diet and exercise routine. This incident prompted me to reflect on the significance of diet and exercise in preventing cancer. Recently, another staff member in our office was diagnosed with terminal cancer. She had always made healthy choices, including consuming organic food, never smoking, exercising regularly, and taking good care of herself.

This whole thing got me thinking about how diet and exercise might actually prevent cancer. However, it’s essential to recognize that other factors can influence our perception of health and disease. And guess what? Advertising often uses selective data to make certain products or services appear more appealing than others. Plus, people tend to trust what they see more than what they read, according to the advertising group.

For instance, this morning, I watched a television advertisement for a “new wave” oven. They touted how much more fat it removes compared to a conventional oven. They “demonstrated” this by cooking chicken in both ovens and then pouring the drippings into a cup to show the difference in fat removal. 

Everyone was impressed! However, they didn’t mention that the oven they were selling didn’t allow moisture to escape. Instead, they added water to the fat, increasing its volume. In a real oven, the moisture would have dissipated, leaving behind leftover fat that resembles motor oil. But people tend to believe what they see. We should remember to think critically.

Recently, I encountered an inspiring video about Yoga that featured Arthur Boorman, a former Army veteran. Boorman embarked on a journey to reclaim his life after undergoing a botched surgery during the first Gulf War. This surgery rendered him unable to walk without the aid of leg braces and canes, and he endured this condition for 15 years, enduring constant pain. By February 2007, his weight had significantly increased to 297 pounds, and he was on the verge of giving up. 

In search of a means to alleviate his pain, Boorman discovered the Yoga Retreat Group (YRG) workout program. Inspired by the guidance of DDP and other members of Team YRG, Boorman set his goal: “I Will Walk Again!” and ultimately achieved it. The video effectively illustrates that life is not defined by the number of setbacks but rather by the number of times one rises from them. For reference, here is the link to the video: http://youtu.be/suTPns5cy_Q

In conclusion, I have come to realize that scientific research should refrain from making generalizations about health and well-being. Our genetic makeup and the environments in which we are raised are vastly different, resulting in varied responses to other interventions. This phenomenon presents a significant challenge to scientific research.

Recently, I acquired a new road bike. I plan to ride my Bionx Cannondale Quick 5 one day and the new Fuji Roubaix 2.0 the other. This will allow me to cycle longer distances without experiencing fatigue. The distance I cycle one way is 18 miles. In 2012, I commuted over 500 miles to work and set a goal of 3,000 miles for my commute. It is remarkable to consider the potential fuel savings this entails, which is equivalent to the cost of an iPad.

Now, let’s talk about my health. I haven’t lost any weight since January 1st. I think this is because of three things:

1. I had been depressed about leaving tennis (after almost four months, I am really feeling good emotionally about quitting.
2. Work has been hectic and stressful. To cope, I’ve reduced my workweek to 55-60 hours. We recently hired two new staff members, and I’m hopeful that I’ll be able to return to my 40-hour workweek soon. (THANK GOD, I’M BURNING OUT!)
3. The right knee is peculiar. I’ve been diligently avoiding pushing it. It never fully recovered from the surgery. As I’ve mentioned repeatedly, reducing weight significantly decreases the likelihood of pain. My weight has dropped by 18 pounds from my excessive weight in 2005. I gained 72 pounds, equivalent to my grandmother’s weight, in 2005. That was painful! I’m responsible for my weight gain, but the regular dose of prednisone between 2008 and 2011 certainly didn’t help. I felt the weight increase each time I was on the medication, but I felt much better!

I’ve signed up for my 28th Grandma’s Marathon! I’m still deciding whether I’ll actually run it, but as a lifetime member, I don’t have to pay an entry fee. I had to enter by April 1st or I’d miss out on the year, so I signed up. Last year, I managed to run it with just one 2.4-mile training run on Tuesday, the day before the marathon. Can you believe that?

In any case, I eagerly anticipate resuming my running regimen when circumstances permit. I am particularly nostalgic for my initial runs through the woods, which had become monotonous over the past few years. Despite making several attempts, I was too fatigued after an 11-hour workday to complete any runs. In retrospect, an easy run would have been a more beneficial choice.  

I have been told that sharing my diet plan with everyone and posting the results weekly will increase the likelihood of success. It makes me think.

As I wrap up, I’ve been snapping more photos and getting to know my new camera. One of the pictures I took the other night caught my eye. There’s this weird object in the sky in the upper left corner. Check out the second picture, and I zoomed in on the corner. It’s only in one of the photos; I took a bunch of them that night. Pretty cool, huh?

Image

Upper left view zoomed in

It is unlikely that I was experiencing a UFO sighting, but I must admit that I felt uneasy about my surroundings that night. The feeling was quite pronounced. Upon returning home, I confided in my girlfriend about my unease while taking photographs. Later that week, I downloaded the images, and we were both astounded by the findings.

Carry on my friends!

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

Wayne

Yay for Grandma's, and bike commuting. Eventually, I want to see you out on the trails again! And your UFO looks like a street light to me.  Tuesday, April 24, 2012 at 7:58:01 AM CDT

Bethk

Well, I'm pretty sure it's the street light! Great picture, though. Congrats on signing up for G'ma's, and I'm glad your biking is going well. Yeah!  Tuesday, May 1, 2012 at 9:09:07 PM CDT

Back on track?

I was back on track, then I sidestepped due to infection issues. A CAT scan and medicine improved my condition this week.

Ending my decade of tennis officiating would mean more free time, but I’ve found it challenging to adjust. I’ve always emphasized the one-year rule for significant life changes, such as ending a relationship, replacing a pet, or relocating. Giving yourself a year’s break before replacing what’s lost is crucial. People often say it takes two years to fully settle in a new home, especially if they move from a dorm room.

I’ve been dabbling in various hobbies over the past two months, which has caused me a slight amount of depression. I’ve had eight free weekends, but only one has been productive. I’m busy with other things, but none have become a passion. I’ve always loved photography and recently gained some skills in it.

Like any hobby, there are upgrades and expenses. I recently upgraded to a new Nikon D5100 DSLR. It’s not a professional-level upgrade, but it has many enhancements over my old camera, including almost three times the megapixels. 

I’ve been learning the new camera. It’s amazing how many variables affect the perfect photo in the right light at the right time! Here are some recent pictures I took to see what I’ve learned.

Therefore, the new camera has been occupying my time.  

Lake Superior south of Two Harbors, MN	Two Harbors, MN
Split Rock Lighthouse	Nine Mile Creek, Bloomington, MN

I’ve had regular workouts for the first time in years. Some say that running 50-100 miles, cross-training (including weightlifting, swimming, and biking), and spending at least 45 minutes daily is normal. I started in 2012, but slipped for two weeks; however, I have had two great weeks since then.

I’m itching to bike to work. It’s 18 miles one way, but a nice day ride prepares me for the day and de-stresses me from my stressful job. I’m considering upgrading my 25-year-old Cannondale SR 400 road bike to a new flat-bar road bike. I’ve looked at:

• Marin Lucas Valley
• Jamis Allegro Comp
• Novara Express (REI) 
• Trex 7.5FX (However, I have never been a Trek fan)

With the new camera, there’s always a budget. Tennis, a hobby, generated about $400 a month extra cash, but that dent makes a difference. It’s over a 10% decrease in net pay from last year. So my “toys” take longer to acquire, but I never had the time to enjoy them, so there’s a needed balance.

In the near future, I intend to resume intermittent running, albeit with extended durations. My primary objective is to lose weight before straining the surgically repaired knee. While running is an effective method for weight loss, it presents a conundrum as it hinders my recovery.

Despite the passage of over a decade, I am still grappling with the adjustments to my lifestyle, which is a natural consequence of such significant changes. I am confident that I will fully adapt within the timeframe of a pleasant spring. I extend my best wishes for your well-being and safety in your endeavors.

Carry on my friends, carry on

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

SteveQ

If a new camera would have me take pictures like that, I would definitely buy it. Wow!  Sunday, March 4, 2012 at 12:05:52 PM CST

Kel

Beautiful pics, Londell!   Seems to me that you've actually been VERY productive since leaving tennis; exploring new possibilities for your time and energy. Balance will come ;) Sunday, March 4, 2012 at 12:46:25 PM CST

wildknits

Those are amazing pictures of the Lake. And Nine Mile Creek - grew up near there. Never saw the beauty that you captured in that shot. Sunday, March 4, 2012 at 3:52:18 PM CST

Mike W.

Great pictures; the colors are fabulous.  Give yourself time to adjust to the new routine and you are right once spring gets here it should be easier.  Sunday, March 4, 2012 at 5:04:02 PM CST

Beth

Wow, just amazing pictures. I think sometimes we put too much pressure on ourselves to be "productive". When I first quit my job when I had a baby, I felt guilty, like I should be doing a lot more. It took me almost a year for the feeling to go away. Just living your life on the weekends is good enough. Whether it's doing something you love or just taking a nap. Transition takes time, but you will find what works for you!  Thursday, March 8, 2012 at 9:49:20 PM CST

Update

I've been busy since the holidays and the start of 2012. On January 10, I rode my bike to work, 18 miles one way, without winter gear! I rode home that afternoon in a T-shirt. In January, in Minnesota!

I’m getting good workouts but not losing weight. After a solid first eight days, during which I worked out about 2 hours daily, including at least 1 hour of cardio at over 145 beats per minute, I stepped on the scale and was disappointed to see that I’d gained 4.2 pounds. I’m angry but will get back on track and won’t visit the scale for a while.

Tennis has been finished for over a month. I initially planned to help cover the collegiate season, which starts this weekend, but after some thought and pressure, I decided to take a break. I’m not going to play Lacrosse, but I’m going to improve my health and eating. That takes time.

Tennis was a significant part of my identity for about 13 years, making me feel whole and complete. Many people have identities outside themselves, such as running ultra-marathons, being a spouse, or having children. My son and tennis have been at least 90 percent of who I am since my divorce over a decade ago.

I’m on a mission to discover new hobbies and passions. I love spending time outdoors, but with a wind chill of -35 degrees, I’ll be staying indoors for now. I’m thinking of upgrading my bike for spring and putting a flat bar on my 25-year-old Cannondale SR 400. Flat-bar road bikes might look a bit silly, but I’m a big fan of the flat-bar design. Running still needs some work. I need to lose some weight to make sure my knee doesn’t hurt. So, my workouts are limited to indoor biking, the elliptical, and weights. I also enjoy swimming and yoga occasionally. 

For Christmas, my girlfriend surprised me with a weekend outdoor photography class (Coldsnap.com—Winter Wonderland) in late February. I’m hoping for warmer than -34 degrees, but I’m excited to learn something new. I’ll share some of the photos with you later.

In essence, that is the extent of the matter. I will continue to reclaim the sense of identity I lost when I discontinued tennis. However, it was an opportune moment. I was no longer deriving pleasure from the sport, and many individuals I interacted with shared the same sentiment. Consequently, it was time for me to pursue a new hobby. I experienced a remarkably fulfilling week after volunteering for an ultramarathon. The next comparable opportunity presents itself in the form of Zumbro 100. I should contact John and secure a place.

I’m leaving for Colorado tomorrow for four days. I’ll help my son move and catch up on things. He just returned from five weeks in Chile. I hope to get some good stories and pictures.

Please take care of yourself and stay warm.

Carry on my friends, carry on!

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

Jordan Hanlon

Zumbro is a great race and John and the rest of the volunteers and crew do a great job. I did it last year as my first 100 miler and it was great. Best of luck in your running and everything else this New Year.  Friday, January 20, 2012 at 11:21:47 PM CST

First free weekend in - I can't recall

Last weekend, I had the first free weekend in ages! I was thrilled because I had quit tennis two weeks prior. My last two work weeks were super busy, averaging around 50 hours a week, compared to the 72 I had been averaging for the first 50 weeks of 2011. Shelley was going to Nebraska, and my son is in Chile (yes, the country!). So, it was just an aging dog and me. It was a bit lonely, but we bonded.

It was amazing to see these incredible athletes in Tuscobia. One guy was from Texas and dressed super lightly, unlike the others, who were bundled up. (Note: no gloves!) I was freezing out there, but he was walking or jogging, while I was standing. I started volunteering at 1:00 p.m. on Friday and left around 1 p.m. on Saturday. I barely got 45 minutes of sleep between 6:45 and 7:30 a.m. However, aside from that, time flew by, and I had a fantastic time hanging out with great people and making new friends.

With shorter workweeks, I’ve incorporated regular exercise into my routine. This is beneficial since I’ve been stressed and short on time. I’ve averaged at least 30 minutes of exercise daily, with today being 2 hours and 30 minutes. Although I initially felt fatter, I now feel better. I know this phase is temporary and will become a habit. I hope to have three regular weeks by year-end and form the habit.

A synopsis would be appropriate since I have not posted much on this blog in 2011.  Here are the bullet points highlighted:

• In January, I discovered that my son had reintroduced bedbugs from his trip to Germany earlier that year. It was a tough battle, but I finally conquered it after nine months. It was a real challenge at the time!
• In February, I relocated to Apple Valley. As is widely known, I had been experiencing various medical challenges, leading me to consider this location as a suitable place to reside. Consequently, I moved in with my girlfriend. (It is important to note that I do not reside in sin; instead, I reside in the basement of the dwelling. However, whether this aspect holds significance for others is not of particular concern.) However, it is worth mentioning that she had a daughter’s wedding and incurred other substantial expenses, so my funds also provided her with significant benefits.
• In April, I installed a Bionx Electric Assist Kit on my Cannondale Quick 5 due to the 18-mile one-way bike ride to work. This modification enabled me to commute to work daily without requiring a rest day between the approximately 36 miles.
• After a 10-year hiatus, my son took me on a 3-mile training run the week before Grandma’s 2011. We ran it together, and my streak as an official finisher continues for 27 years. His support and enjoyment made it a cherished memory.
• Moved my son (twice) to Golden, Colorado, in July.
• My girlfriend was distant due to planning her daughter’s wedding and a two-week trip to Italy to visit her other daughter.
• Volunteered at the 42-mile mark of the ST 100. Great weather for spectators, but the runner was relentless. My aid station resembled an M.A.S.H. unit, but only smiles!
• I interviewed in various locations far from here and received an offer in Idaho. Though I declined, I’ve regretted it a few times. During tough times and strained relationships, a new start can be appealing, but I’ve never been one to flee issues. There were compelling reasons to go and stay. Regrettably, I made the decision. Tomorrow, I may be glad I did. This has been my experience over the past month since I rejected the lateral move professionally.
• December 9th marked the end of my involvement with the United States Tennis Association. Leaving baseball unpinning was a decision I made without hesitation, ready to move on. Over 10 years, with 35-40 weekends a year, I no longer enjoyed the hobby. I learned that passion can’t be monetized, but administrators and a few parents can take it away.
• Finished the year with 2,265 bike miles, 645 elliptical miles, and 29.2 running miles. I likely walked a few hundred miles too.

Following my recent tennis tournament, Shelley invited me to the Holiday Lights Benefit Concert at the Brave New Workshop. The event was thoroughly enjoyable, and we had the privilege of witnessing a local performer, Keri Noble, whose talent I was previously unaware of. Her performance was truly exceptional, and I must express my profound admiration for her songwriting abilities. Noble’s music possesses a profound emotional depth and authenticity. I highly recommend exploring her work.

Our office is currently experiencing a staffing shortage of four members. Despite the economic downturn, we could have managed with two fewer, but the current situation has proven challenging. We anticipate the arrival of a new staff member in mid-late January, which will provide a temporary solution. However, as is customary during this time of year, our workload is significantly reduced, allowing us ample time to train the new individual before the anticipated surge in activity in March.

Overall, my physical and personal circumstances are undergoing rapid transformation as I approach the age of 50. I have witnessed more significant changes in the past 18 months compared to the decade preceding. The experience has been akin to a repeated divorce, although the changes are unrelated to interpersonal relationships and primarily affect my own well-being.

In light of these developments, I am setting my sights on 2012. Looking ahead, I prioritize weight loss. The right knee, which underwent surgery recently, is currently functioning satisfactorily, albeit with occasional episodes of pain. I intend to continue diligently caring for my body and engaging in regular physical activity to regain my desired fitness level. Although I do not plan to participate in any competitive races next year, I intend to volunteer at ST 100 once again. 

I will keep you all posted. Until then, carry on.

Tuscobia - here I come to volunteer

Despite having limited time for exercise this year, I have been delighted and fulfilled by volunteering to assist those who wish to participate in the Tusobia 50K, 75M, and 150M races. While I am uncertain about the number of runners, Bill and I will be stationed at one of the events.

On Friday, I took a leave of absence from work, resulting in a 36-hour workweek, which is nearly half of the average annual workload. This extended break has left me feeling indolent, as I have neglected my workout routine. Although I had meticulously planned my workouts, the absence of a consistent schedule has proven to be challenging.

Tennis officiating has been an integral aspect of my life, and this week marks the commencement of a new phase where I will relinquish my responsibilities. It is akin to ending a 12-year relationship, and as unconventional as it may sound, the transition has been arduous.

Incorporating exercise into the holiday season presents additional difficulties, especially since it is not a habitual practice. I intend to make the most of my available time and find ways to stay active.

I recently watched the Biggest Loser finale, and the at-home winner appeared to be in poor physical condition. The season was generally unengaging, and I regrettably missed a significant portion of it. Anna K. was not an effective trainer, and Bob remains the undisputed champion.

As we approach the week before Christmas, I am reminded of a task that I am obligated to complete. While the exact nature of this task eludes me at present, I am inclined to believe in the power of Santa Claus and hope that the tree will be filled with presents, thereby absolving me of the responsibility. I will consider this matter further.

During my marriage, I relied on the assistance of others for the care and maintenance of various tasks. Over time, I have developed a habit of delegating these responsibilities, which is evident in the numerous hours of home videos I am currently converting to DVD. As I reminisce, I am reminded of the challenges I faced during that period. While I cherish the memories of my marriage, I acknowledge that circumstances have changed, and I am now ready to embrace a new phase of life. However, the allure of a run remains irresistible.

As stated by Socrates, "As for me, all I know is that I know nothing."

Carry on my friends, carry on!

Blog Time Off

Blog posts are rare due to our busy schedules and upcoming changes.

Life is challenging for many, but I’m grateful for my blessings. However, significant changes are on the way. First, I’m moving from Bloomington to Apple Valley, leaving me with only a weekend free from tennis or work in late May.

My health and wellness are my biggest concerns. I thought my surgery in May would improve my condition, but my infection, which caused my surgery in May 2010, has returned. Despite taking strong Black Box Warning Medications, it has persisted.

I finished a round of four different medications five days ago. While on them, my chest was clear, I felt solid, and my head felt fine. After a few days without, the negative impacts returned. I’ve decided not to share my struggles with friends and followers. In reality, I’m fine but limited.

I am going to continue to work with the doctors and try to beat this, whatever it is. I know that being on heavy-duty antibiotics for two weeks, then taking a three-week break, followed by two weeks on and another three to four weeks off... I have just been in that cycle for eight months, and the end is not clear.

This is an update and a sign-off from posting on this blog. May we survive this winter, and may my spring be filled with success in overcoming this persistent infection. Working a 40-hour week for a month would reduce stress, but my commitments require more than 75 hours a week. At my full-time job, where I’m grateful to be employed, we’re in a hiring freeze due to staff shortages. I’m overwhelmed at work, and missing a day means I fall behind, so I end up working extra 15-hour days to catch up.

May we all be blessed with good health and wellness as we endure a difficult time. I am signing off, and I hope to be back in a few months.

Carry on, my friends.

Comments from my original blog - I merged the blogs.

Beth

Wishing you good health and happiness while you take some time off from your blog. Hope warm weather will find you finished with that blasted infection and less stressed. Take care!!  Sunday, January 16, 2011 at 9:13:30 PM CST

wildknits

Really sorry to hear you are still dealing with that infection!  I think you are right—reducing your stress would aid in healing. And I know this can be the hardest thing to do when you need to make ends meet.  At our clinic we often tell folks that if they could just take time to rest at the beginning of an illness they would recover faster. One of the hardest prescriptions to follow!  Hang in there, good luck with the move, and don't forget your probiotics! (after being on all those antibiotics;->).  Monday, January 17, 2011 at 8:33:15 AM CST

SteveQ

Yikes. I really hope you get better soon and I see you somewhere on the trails this year.  It's common for people who blog to feel they should only say positive things and keep whatever's not right in their lives to themselves. I battled with that idea and found that writing actually helped me. Write when you're ready; we'll be here when you come back.  Tuesday, January 18, 2011 at 10:12:27 AM CST

Mike W.

Take care of yourself, get healthy, blogging will be there when you are ready as will running. You can only juggle so many things at one time, adding in more just adds stress even if what you add is supposed to reduce stress.  Now that you are moving to Apple Vally, Lebanon Hills, Murphy and Terrace Oaks are closer. Hope to see you on the trails, Friday, January 21, 2011 at 9:31:09 AM CST

New year - odd images

I found some photos that express how life feels for so many people.

I find the dogs have taken the credit cards and a good life!

I come home and try to relax on the couch. The couch even overtakes me.

Dr. Visit found the following! At least, that is the way the brain feels.

In 2011, I experienced a period of exceptional well-being that spanned two consecutive days. I eagerly anticipate a productive workout and a fulfilling week ahead. However, I acknowledge that I have five consecutive weekends dedicated to tennis, which may pose a challenge in maintaining my usual flow. Nevertheless, I will endeavor to manage my expectations and minimize any unnecessary stress associated with this schedule.

Carry on my friends, carry on!