Healthy Checks: Take Control of your own care!

As reported in 2011, a lump on my thyroid was discovered.  Since then, I have had 3 fine needle aspirations, biopsies, and an ultrasound.  The last exam being the ultrasound.   You see, from my annual physical exam in 2013-April/May, I noticed my neck area was looking rather large. I felt my thyroid and the lump that is there felt larger and seemed to be more visible to me.  I didn't immediately react, but just noticed it with each view of myself in the mirror.  After a few weeks, I finally make an appointment with my doctor to further discuss. After her exexamination,  she said it didn't seem to have grown based upon measurement,  but I disagreed given it looked like I have an atom's apple growing.  I wanted her to be clear,' I am a full-fledge woman and don't want to be a man!' I shouldn't have a visible lump in my neck/throat area! I insisted that I see a specialist to make sure all is well.

I see an Ears, Nose, Throat doctor, Dr. Kim who determines the lump feels rather large to the touch and wants me to get an ultrasound and then a guided fine needle aspiration. Dr. Kim wanted to know the exact areas she took samples for the biopsy.  After this painful procedure all is well.  There is no major concern and this something I will have to monitor.   Because the lump on my thyroid is kind of big, swallowing is a bit challenging,  but not enough to warrant surgery.

I have an excellent rapport with my primary care doctor. She provides great care and can usually calm my nerves when I'm freaked about something.  However,  I am glad I didn't easily accept her diagnosis that the lump is fine, but that I actually checked it out.   At tbe end of the day, I knew something wasn't right and I am glad I took action for confirmation.

Happy Mother's Day!

This weekend was all about mom, for sure! We spend a lot of time together anyway,  but this weekend was extra fun.  Suffice it to say, I am exhausted. Happy Mother's Day mom. I am so glad God chose me to be your daughter.

Rockwall Winery-Mother Trucker

SF Noir Wine Event- BGR Ladies

SF Noir Wine Event

After a beautiful church service

Mother's Day Brunch prepared by my little sister. 

Oakland Running Festival: part IV

Today was the 5th Anniversary of the Oakland Running Festival,  but my 4th time completing this event.  Each year the organizers get better and better. This event is picking up steam on the fun factor, too.  They've always offered a relay team to complete 13.1 and next year, I want in on a team!  They also added a 'we run Oakland' medal, which is the completion of the 5k and the half marathon. Leave it to my mom to take things to the next level, by completing both events.  I walked the 5k with my sister, Pam and friend, Lourdes.  We had a nice chat along the way.  After the walk, I went to church and was truly lifted. I'm so glad I did both events today.

Off track, again...

This maintaining a healthy lifestyle is no joke! I usually stay consistent for about a month or so and than I am off track. Depending upon what got me off track determines how long I stay there.  Lately, it's been the usual culprit.  Work!

I've made a small commitment to myself by working out for sure on my remote day and I've been doing well. Now I need to commit to 2-3 more days of doing the same. I keep gear and sneakers in the car so I have no excuse.  I think my next step is to add shower gear in to my bag in the event my workout takes place during my lunch break.  After all, I do have a gym facility at work.

Here's to new commitments!

Happy Birthday mom!

My marathon inspiration! Happy Birthday to the best woman on earth.

Lake Chabot

The beauty of lake Chabot; no matter which trail you choose, you're always welcomed back. Today, I chose a hill trail. Not only for the challenge, but because I could feel closer to the sky. Thus, closer to God.

Happy New Year!

I got my 2014 off to a great start! For the first time, I rang in the new year in church.  It was an awesome experience and not at all what I had expected it to be.  The Pastor and ministers were very casual in their dress and didn't have on their robes.  There was an opportunity for the congregation to share their testimony of how they made it through the year.  The stories shared were very moving. I didn't share a testimony, but if you read this blog, you can read all about how I've made it! 

In the morning, I visited a new gym, The Inner Athlete to meet the trainer whose 30 day challenge I joined.  I definately want to sign up because staying fit is an on going goal of mine.  It's imperative that I continue to commit to living a healthy lifestyle.

Here's to getting spiritually and physically fit in the New Year!