This is a difficult post for me to write. Mainly because I was not the hero of this story, I was the villain. Yet each story has a lesson, and I’m trying to pin down what the particular lesson is in this story. The story begins in the picturesque setting of Gatlinburg, TN, on aContinue reading “Temper, Temper”
Category Archives: meditations
Mark Levin’s Exploration of Positive and Negative Power
Mark Levin is an icon in conservative circles. He worked in the Reagan Administration as the Chief of Staff for Attorney General Ed Meese. He is a constitutional attorney, and was close friends with Rush Limbaugh. That is how I first heard of him, listening to Rush and his friend “F. Lee Levin”. He hasContinue reading “Mark Levin’s Exploration of Positive and Negative Power”
Mind Games
My weigh-in yesterday showed that I weighed 281.2 pounds. That’s a loss of 48.8 pounds since March 20. I’d love to be able to tell you it was easy, but if I did, I would be lying. The greatest obstacle to losing weight has been…me. I play a lot of mind games with myself. TheContinue reading “Mind Games”
Disappointment, and Then…
As I approach my 61st birthday, I reflect on life’s ups and downs, particularly my team’s recent Europa League loss. Manchester United’s 1-0 defeat by Tottenham was disappointing, highlighting their poor season. However, after watching Bluey with my family, I found solace. The next day, I learned the Indiana Pacers triumphed in overtime, reminding me that life’s balance often prevails.
FREEDOM!
After six weeks of recovery from surgery, the author lifted driving restrictions and began yard work, enjoying new tools like Grampa’s Weeder. Simultaneously, Manchester United triumphed in the Europa League semifinals, defeating Athletic Bilbao 3-0. Additionally, the author played chess with his grandson, who is learning the game.
Turning the Corner
After four weeks post-surgery, I’m noticing improvement as I’ve resumed walking and cooking despite some lingering restrictions. My surgical follow-up is rescheduled for a week later, adding to my eagerness to recover fully. Meanwhile, Manchester United’s thrilling comeback in their Europa League match against Lyon, culminating in a historic last-minute goal from Harry Maguire, has lifted my spirits significantly.
Recovery
Three weeks post-surgery, the author reports good healing progress despite lingering energy issues. Restrictions limit daily activities, notably lifting and sleeping positions. While adapting to challenges, including a power outage, they find gratitude in recovery. Anticipation grows for a follow-up appointment, hopeful for lifted restrictions and newfound freedom.
Medical Science is AMAZING!
One week after open-heart surgery, the author reflects on their swift recovery, being discharged after less than six days. They detail the surgical procedure, pain management, and rehabilitation experiences, including walks and interactions with hospital roommates. The author expresses gratitude for their care team and appreciation for their supportive wife, Robin.
Gallows Humor
The author is preparing for an upcoming surgery, engaging in recovery practices like drinking specialized shakes, doing breathing exercises, and deep squats. They reflect on coping with anxiety through dark humor and memes while acknowledging the surgery’s severity. Despite fears, they remain optimistic about recovery and cherish family time.
Wrong Again: Or How I Learned to Love my Family Roots
The author reflects on their life and identity after receiving surprising ancestry DNA results, revealing 64% English, 27% Scottish, and 3% Irish heritage, but no Welsh blood. Despite this, their emotional connection to Wales remains strong. They explore family history, tracing Scottish and American roots while emphasizing the importance of family and learning from mistakes.
Meditations of a Bald, Fat Guy 