My journey back to health December 14-20

Monday, December 14

I lost another 1.6 lbs this week. That makes 20.1 in 8 weeks. I’m not going to complain because it doesn’t change the scales. I did exercise twice last week and I’m really happy about that. I’m still committed to the Optifast program and in reality I am not having any problem sticking to it. I owe my thanks to Carmel Crunch protein bars!

Tuesday, December 15
I went to the Y alone (Wayne was shopping) and completed everything and more. I did all of the weight lifting machines, walked for 15 minutes and biked for 30 minutes. I’m happy with that. The Y is getting all new weight machines on Thursday and only the cardio part of the workout room will be available.

Today is the anniversary of my sister Sherry’s death from brain cancer. She was 59. She was my best friend and confidant. No one will ever be able to take her place in my heart and mind. Even today, some 8 years later, I still reach for the phone to call her and think to myself… “I’ve got to tell Sherry about this.”

I miss her so very much. She was the only person I let really know me. We could talk for hours about anything and nothing. We shared highs and lows throughout our life together…we had no secrets.
If you have a sister…give her a big hug and cherish the moment…I would if I could.

Saturday, December 19
We've been hunkered down the last few days with this cold front coming up from the Gulf of Mexico. I didn't make it back to the Y this week because they put in all new weight machines on Thursday and Friday. I will get back into the swing of it next week.

I got the most beautiful gift today from my niece Mary K. in Florida. I've just got to show you some pictures.

This is the front of the book. Notice the piano and the penguins. I played piano for years and have an extensive collection of penguins. Both were a big part of my life.

Now the piano is in Dale and Jenn's home in California and most of the penguins are in the bedrooms of my grandaughters.

When I open the book, each side has a cut out portion where decorated cards hang by ribbons to hooks across the top. Each card flips up to reveal another underneath.

Every card has different pictures on it that mark a precious memory for me. 

The first page (above) has a picture of Wayne and I taken this year in Captiva, Fl. That's the resort my brother took us to in October. It was a big family reunion for his kids and I am so greatful he included us. David, Kim, Morgan and Madison were able to come from Ohio.

I took pictures of the cards as I flipped through and labelled them so you can tell who is who.  I think the dates are correct, but if not, someone let me know.

Isn't that a beautiful work of art?  Thank you Mary for a wonderful gift that I will treasure forever.

Now I know why you wanted to know my favorite color. Anyone want to guess??