Today marks 5 months and 2 days since I had open heart surgery to repair my Mitral Valve and a single Coronary Artery Bypass Graph. I am pleased to say my dizziness is starting to slow down in frequency as is my shortness of breath when climbing stairs.

My goal has been to continue to complete a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise each and every day along with weight training 3-4 times per week and 2-3 times per week HIIT (High Intensity Interval Training) to REALLY give the old ticker a workout. During my HIIT's, I am able to raise my heart rate to the mid 140's and higher.

I am now bench pressing 40 pound dumbbells from what was a weight restriction of 5 pound dumbbells 2 weeks post surgery. By the way, I love my BowFlex SelecTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells!

Today marked my 139th day in a row of 30 minutes or more of exercise. While in Tennessee last week I continued to exercise, walking laps around Sherwood Forest. Some of the inclines really challenged me as I got my heart rate up over 140 and was only walking!! Weighed myself this morning and have been able to keep my weight at 170, though my goal is still 165. Problem is I like my beer and other liquid guilty pleasures, oh AND food!

Once again, I challenge all of you that read my journal to set a goal, better health for 2019 and beyond. It takes a 1st step, the rest will get easier and soon it WILL be a life style change. It won't guarantee longer life, but it will lessen the likelihood of health issues stopping all your dreams.

Here's to all of you and your health! Peace