This Was My Month

I shaved my head, in order to more fully enjoy the last few weeks of warm weather (don’t forget, I’m in the southern hemisphere). I welcomed the arrival of autumn. I walked across bridges. I walked through crowded city streets. I walked down barren river canyons. I walked past fields full of sweet-smelling wild flowers. I broke in a new pair of hiking boots. I broke in a new pair of custom orthotic inserts. I re-familiarized myself with South American wine. I cooked. A lot. I organized my favorite recipes. I made chicken korma from scratch, all the way down to the garam masala. I further reduced my consumption of processed foods and refined sugars. I read. And read. And read some more. I saw (most) of the Oscar-nominated movies. I started to explore Jazz music. I incorporated weight lifting into my exercise routine. I started using the steam sauna at the gym. I lost even more weight (my current belt is down to its last notch). I traveled to a volcano on the border with Chile. I visited ancient Andean burial monuments. I got caught outdoors in a sudden blizzard with complete white-out conditions (both fun and scary). I pushed myself to keep moving on the days when my RA activity was low. I stayed in bed and allowed my body to rest on the days when my RA activity was medium-high. I said farewell to my dear dog Alva. I spent a lot of time playing with my two pugs, Oliver and Bella. I barbecued for family and friends. I upgraded to an iPhone 6 Plus (primarily for the camera). I sat down at a coffee shop, and didn’t immediately start checking all of my social media accounts. I bumped into my rheumatologist at the local farmers market. I started planning for an upcoming family reunion. I got lots of rest. I learned more about my mind and my body. I lived life.

Stay tuned…for the next adventure of Rheumatoid Arthritis Guy!