It’s Annual Physical time. At 65 I am very grateful to open my eyes each morning. I have only really taken an interest in my physical health when I got past 45. My mental health at 55.

I have a lot of shit wrong with me. Type 2 diabetes. Degenerative spine, C4/C5 (lower neck). Arthritis. Plantar fasciitis. Chronic asthma/bronchitis caused by 40 years of smoking and long Covid. Severe Vertigo once every couple of years. High blood pressure. Sleep apnea. Low good cholesterol. Severe depression. All require medication, exercise, treatments, and hope.

Some problems are genetic. Both my parents had spinal fusions. Both my parents and brother died of lung cancer. My paternal family had suicides and hospitalizations due to depression.

Some ailments are the result of social economic realities in the first 30 years of my life. No dental care. A daily diet of pasta or potatoes. Living with an alcoholic in the home. Three children born by the age of 22.

But I keep moving. 3-5 km a day or more. Fresh vegetables daily. Chicken/seafood. Due to my love of bread I cannot eat it. I will gluttonize. I try not to buy chips, ice cream, bread, or chocolate anything. All those things become treats when I go out somewhere.

I try really hard to follow my doctor’s instructions. I do physiotherapy and follow recommended exercises. I stay away from fad diets and fad supplements. And I do it all because I love me!!! I have a high quality of life. I can still have adventures. I still love learning. I love my world and all it’s wonders. I love my fantastic family and friends. But more than all that, I love me!!!

Go forth and love yourself to the best of your ability!!

May I be safe. May I be healthy. May I be happy. May I live with ease.