I'm starting to see improvements in my fitness- FINALLY.  Thank God.  I've been hiking and running and progressing like a herd of turtles!  Last weekend Matt and I went up to Kennedy Meadows in the Emigrant Wilderness area and camped out with the Johnson family and some of their friends.  We had a blast.  On Sunday, while Matt and Jada hiked, Tamara, Dave and I ran about 30 miles through snow and lot's of cold water.  Naturally, I was trashed, but managed to finish with no soreness or discomfort to speak of.  I even started the run with a brand new shoe- the asics trabuco 14, and didn't have one blister.  I couldn't believe it.  I don't think I have ever worn that shoe and it fit like a glove.  So perfect!

Yesterday, I ran about 15 miles with Suz and just about died the last 40 minutes of the run.  For the rest of the day I had about as much energy as a snail.  I don't think I moved around too much for the rest of the day.  I wanted to walk most of the last few miles, but Suz pushed me to finish what I started and I'm glad that I did.

My shoulder is progressing nicely.  I go to PT twice a week and improving everyday.  Nights are still painful and I am unable to sleep without pain unless I take a sleeping pill.  I am trying to only take a sleeping pill a few times a week.  It's been difficult to get good sleep these days, but if you know me that's nothing new.

My daughter Chelsea, who is 23, recently got diagnosed with Lupus.  It makes me sad to think that she got it from me.  I hope she does as well as I have done.  My heart breaks for her.  She is a strong woman and I think she will do well.

"It's not the load that breaks you down; it's the way you carry it." -Lena Horne

On a positive note, today Chelsea and I were driving around and found a lawn mower in front of a house with a FREE sign on it.  Much to the embarrassment of Chelsea, I stopped and loaded that baby into the back of my car.  I brought it home and BINGO!  It works like a charm and even self propels itself.  What a find!