My Goals for 2014

I don't make New Year's Resolutions on the simple idea that if I fail to complete them, I've failed myself. Instead I like to set a small amount of GOALS, that, if circumstances allow, I strive to achieve. This year, my set list is short and sweet. Here they are:

• Read a minimum of 2 books a month. (Should be easy since I take the bus to work most days)
• Utilize every advantage of my Gym membership at least 3 times a week, even if my husband can't join me some days.
• Cook healthy meals at home (prepare lunches the night before, overnight/while at work crock-pot meals for time-saving, ready-to-eat deliciousness). Eat out WAY LESS!!! (If I do, order a simple salad and/or healthy appetizer)
• Be more mindful of spending habits. Ask myself: "Do I NEED this?" or "Do I simply just WANT this?" And weigh the pros and cons of my ultimate decision.
• Save for and find a good house to rent. One that'll accept our 4 cats (which makes this even more of a challenge).
• Advance in my career.

So there you have it! My goals for the year. Ready, set, go!

Great News!!!

Here's some good news finally!!!
This is a letter I received from my cardiologists office regarding my recent stress test:

December 13th, 2013
Dear Mrs. Kilborn,

I'm writing to inform you that the results of the Cardiopulmonary Exercise testing you had performed recently have been reviewed by Dr. Stout. The results are normal for gender and age, and much better than the last time! All looks stable and we will continue to monitor you in the future as needed.

Sincerely,
Amanda, RN
UWMC Regional Heart Center

Another (minor-ish) Heart Surgery... WhooHoo!

So, for those that don't know yet, I will be heading back into UWMC for another (minor-ish) heart related procedure on August 1st. They will be doing a Melody Valve Placement and I should only be there a night or two. When they performed my last open-heart surgery on July 28th, 2009, they had left my sternum open with about a 1" gap when they stitched me up to allow more room for my conduit to fully open and work properly. Well, it's still being squished in there despite that and, therefore, needing this to further (hopefully) assist it along!

So that’s what it feels like…

My S-ICD has done its job… And effectively. The shock felt like being kicked in the chest combined with an implosion. Though the medics said I could still go bowling, Adam preferred me to stay home for his peace of mind. I lovingly obliged! Watched ARROW and FAMILY GUY. I have an appointment on Friday with my cardiologist to see how high my heart rate got before the shock was triggered and how many volts it took to set my heart straight. So fun…