I had to go to the doctor this past week for my yearly check up.  I can’t skip it anymore because I have to get my prescriptions renewed every year.  For the past 5 years, I have been taking medicine for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and water retention.

I hadn’t gone to the doctor’s in about 20 years but had gained weight and started having dizzy spells 5 years ago.  I had blamed it on the stress I had at work but thought I better get it checked out.  I had a 75 mile commute one way to work and didn’t want to pass out and cause an accident.  That is when I the doctor diagnosed me with high blood pressure along with an irregular heart beat. 

I had worked for over 34 years so I decided to retire to eliminate that stress.  I chose not to take the heart medicine as you can’t ever quit it once you start.  I figured I’d be ok once I quit working. 

I have been plodding along on this weight loss journey.  I’ve been up and down more times than a Duncan YoYo.  Of course, I’ve never gotten close to my ideal weight.  This past winter, without having lawns to mow, I’ve gained the weight I lost last year and along with a few more pounds. 

I got a letter from my doctor yesterday along with a copy of my blood tests.  A new thing has popped up…..my sugar is on the borderline of being high!!  He sent me a letter explaining he had called a prescription into the pharmacy for me.  I went to town and picked it up.  I was surprised when I read the use of the drug…..to reduce the risk of heart attack, blood vessel blockage, or chest pain.  It is used in combination with a low-cholesterol and low-fat diet to lower cholesterol and trigliceride levels in the blood.

Although the doctor didn’t tell me I need to lose weight….it’s quite obvious I’m wayyyy over weight.  I’ve posted a copy of the picture with the insulin needle in the cookies on my refrigerator.  That’s an eye opening reminder to me on what NOT to eat. 

I’ve been having a good day.  All I’ve eaten so far is a bowl of home made cabbage soup and it’s already two in the afternoon.  I’m fixing broiled fish, brown rice and green bean for supper.  I’m on my 4th glass of water and have only had one diet coke.  (hardest thing for me to give up)  

I’m got a membership to a local fitness center but haven’t been faithful at going.  I’m heading there in just a few minutes.  I hope this determination I have right now sticks with me.  I know I can win this weight loss battle…..one pound at a time.

I’ve got to go back to the doctor’s in 6 weeks and have my blood drawn again.   These tests will tell me if my diet and weight loss regime is working. 

Time to head to the gym.    I’m grabbing a couple of bottles of water and my Ipod.  Wish me luck!!