Category Archives: Rheumatoid Arthritis

Mar 12 2013
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Chicago Specific Fun, Rheumatoid Arthritis

Day 169: Doctor Fun?

It’s not that I don’t like my rheumatologist, I really do. After a year and a half together, we finally understand one another and communicate better as a result. However, this does not mean that going to appointments are fun.

But today’s appointment actually was really fun. I think because we only had good things to talk about. He thinks I’m doing well. He thinks Europe will be great. He thinks I can manage my own prednisone if I need it on the trip. He gave us some “must sees” for Brussels because his daughter lived their for a year. I was in, the hubs was there, we all chatted and I was out in less than an hour. That’s probably a record for a specialty doctor.

The best part was I left feeling confident, happy and ready to conquer Europe (insert Charlemagne, Caesar, or Alexander the Great joke here)!

Mar 07 2013
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Around the House/DIY, Fun for Couples, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Solitary Fun

Day 164: TV Gesture

I mentioned yesterday that I haven’t been feeling well. I’ve been a little run down and this morning I woke up just not well. Tired, headache, sore throat, body aches, all of it. So the hubs did something very nice and somewhat taboo.

He moved my old little TV and dvd player out of the spare bedroom and in to our room so I could stay in bed and watch Friends (which, let’s face it, is really all I want to do when I don’t feel well). Yet people may view this as unromantic, very “old and married,” a TV in the bedroom? Even though I’m the one who has trouble sleeping and likes a TV to lull me to my nightly rest, I have always been opposed to it. But this morning it was the best thing ever and I had as much fun as a sick person can watching Friends in bed.

I’m feeling better now, but I don’t think we will move it back yet…or ever…I mean its not like it has cable or anything : )

Mar 04 2013
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Chicago Specific Fun, Fitness, Fun for Couples, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Solitary Fun

Day 161: LSAC

The hubs and I joined the Lincoln Square Athletic Club this weekend and today I went for my first work out. It has been a LONG time since I’ve worked out. Walking the dog certainly counts, but it is not as strenuous and focused as working out at a gym.

After a five minute bike warm up, I did 15 minutes on an elliptical. The bike was hard at first. My knees were not used to that kind of motion but I took it easy and it got better as I went. The elliptical was harder because I wanted to go in at 100%. I am a person who likes to do very well at everything I attempt, so it was hard for me to go slower and shorter than I have in the past. I had to remind myself that I will be able to measure progress even if it is slower than I would like.

Here are some of my workout goals:

1. Increase time on cardio machine each week building up to 30 minutes at least three times per week.
2. Try a spin class.
3. Try a “Ballet Burn” class.
4. Continue to feel good about myself as I work towards a healthier body.

Now, here are some things I really like about this gym so far:

1. There are a lot of machines.
2. Each machine has a little cable TV.
3. They offer a lot of interesting classes at various times throughout the day.
4. THEY HAVE A POOL.

On Sunday, I will be trying my first water workout class. This is supposed to be the best kind of workout a person with arthritis can do because the water provides a lot of resistance, yet there is little to no pressure on the joints. Expect a post about this.

I’m very excited about this new addition to my lifestyle. No more sitting around being secretly jealous of my many friends who are fit and athletic!

Feb 25 2013
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Online Fun, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Solitary Fun

Day 154: Spirit Animal

Some years ago I was asked what my spirit animal was. I paused thoughtfully and the answer just came to me, definitely otter. I found this today and it just solidified how much I love and identify with this animal.

He has to play basketball to help his arthritis. I mean, come on. I challenge you to show me something cuter.

Feb 22 2013
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Fun for Couples, Pamper/Beautify, Rheumatoid Arthritis

Day 151: Foot Rub

I worked from home today (and made huge headway on a project-yippee) and for some reason, my feet have been absolutely freezing all day. I finally coaxed the hubs (or maybe I just complained about it enough) to give me a foot massage. It’s become almost cliche, the husband rubbing the wife’s feet-though I think that mainly applies to pregnant women-but I’ve always found it weird. Feet are kind of gross. And ugly. Why would you want the man who is supposed to think you are cute to rub your gross and ugly feet? But after this, I’m hooked. It was totally relaxing. And it warmed my feet right up. Fun!

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