I’ve spent the past few hours reading and studying, and I actually feel like I’m retaining the information pretty well. It’s encouraging because sometimes it’s hard to tell whether what I’m reading is really sticking. I think the next step is to quiz myself later to see how much I actually remember. That will give me a better idea of what I need to review before moving on.

I also had my follow-up appointment for my ears today. The doctor said everything looks great and there are no signs of an infection anymore, which was such a relief to hear. I’m really glad because my ears have been feeling so much better lately. It’s nice to know that they’re healing the way they should.

While I was there, we also talked about my weight-loss goals and the different medication options that are available. I told her I wasn’t interested in taking one of the injectable medications like Kel and Tommy are using. The idea of giving myself regular shots just isn’t something I’m comfortable with. Instead, she recommended an FDA-approved pill called Foundayo. She explained that it’s generally easier on the stomach than medications like Wegovy or Ozempic, which makes me feel more confident about trying it. I’m hopeful it will be a good fit and help me reach my goals without some of the side effects that can come with the injections.

Other than my doctor’s appointment, today has mostly been about studying. It wasn’t an exciting day, but it was definitely a productive one. I’m ending the afternoon with a cup of coffee while I relax for a little bit before getting back to reviewing my notes and testing myself.

I decided to tackle my shirt and sock drawers, and it turned into a much more productive project than I expected. I started by sorting through everything and getting rid of any socks or shirts that had holes or were too worn out to keep. It felt good to finally clear out items that had been taking up space for no reason.

My sock drawer had been so overstuffed that it wouldn’t even close all the way, so I pulled the entire drawer out to see what was causing the problem. While cleaning behind it, I found the other rain jacket that I had been convinced was lost. Tommy had given me a look somewhere between anger and exasperation because he ended up buying me a replacement before our trip to Alaska. I couldn’t really blame him at the time since we both thought the jacket was gone for good. I’m just relieved and happy that I finally found it.

Since I already had the drawer out, I took the opportunity to clean up all the dust, lint, and random bits of trash that had collected behind it. Once everything was cleaned up, I put the drawer back in place. With the extra space from getting rid of worn-out items, it slid shut easily for the first time in a long while.

To finish up, I set aside the shirts I’m planning to bring on the trip and placed them together on one side of my shirt drawer. Now they’re organized, easy to find, and one less thing I’ll have to think about when it’s time to pack.

I wonder when I should pack. I guess maybe I can do some tomorrow and then just put my suitcase aside in the bedroom. I’m getting excited about the trip since it’s about time for packing.

It’s time for me to get on the bike.

I rode the bike for 30 minutes today! I’m completely wiped out, but it’s that satisfying kind of tired where you know you accomplished something. It feels really good to be moving and making progress. Now I’m going to relax and read for a little while before Tommy and Kel get home.