Getting Ready For Christmas & Blood Pressure

I've been away from the computer the past several days, except to squeeze in a little work. We've all been enjoying having the grandparents stay and visit. Last night, my mother made Christmas centerpieces for me and my sister. My sister and I both love birch trees so we're digging these candle holders. I actually have more like them somewhere in my basement storage. I'll probably have the boys drill the one log a little deeper so the candle fits in better, but isn't it pretty? It smells really good too!

Today is the start of our holiday weekend. DH is off from work until next Monday so we're all going to enjoy a nice, long weekend together. We'll finish up the last of the shopping this morning, and this afternoon we'll finish the last of the before Christmas errands, and we'll have supper at Mi Cocina. Our favorite Mexican restaurant.

I'm not getting as much work done as I had hoped, but its not often we get to share so much time with my parents so we've had to take advantage of that. I'll kick it into gear next week, and hopefully before New Year's, reach my goals.

Isn't it crazy how quickly Christmas creeps up on you? New Year's always comes up quick too.

I have been having trouble keeping my blood pressure regulated. Its up and down throughout the week. I've tried diet and exercise, but I just can't bring it down to a safe level on a constant basis. I'm feeling somewhat defeated, but I'm agreeing to try medication beginning after Christmas. (I waiting because I don't want to spoil my holiday with a potential allergic reaction.)

I'm bummed about having to go down this road, but I also know I don't want to have a stroke or heart disease, which run in my family on both sides. I'll be taking a diuretic to start with and hopefully that helps. If not, it could mean a beta blocker.

One plus is the doctor did mention my heart beat sounded really good. She said she could tell I've been exercising so that made me feel a little better. We also discussed how I'm probably not losing weight very quickly because I'm not lifting weights. She explained how especially in women over 40, weight training is critical. I hadn't really thought about weight training too seriously, but it's now on my list for 2011! Just one more piece to my health puzzle I'll eventually figure out.

My Sleepyhouse is starting to wake up, so I better get moving here. If I don't have another chance, let me wish you now a safe, happy and healthy Christmas and New Year. I hope its filled with family, love and laughter!