The latest from Lake Wobegon

Things have settled into somewhat of a routine around here, which usually equates to boring stuff (e.g. getting Hannah ready for school, Marian working at home and me staying out of her way, and Wayne puttering around the house). However, a few cool things happened and will be about to happen. I had my longest walk to date; I estimate about 2 miles. My friend Jim Robinson braved a cold north wind with me and walked Bailey around the neighborhood. The up-hills made me have to stop now and then to catch my breath. I finally got out for lunch with some ex-coworkers from the Minerals Management Service - - we went to the hottest lunch place in town, the Moose's Tooth - great pizza, salads, and beer (my first full glass since the operation). I also met some friends (Neal, Jon, and Marko) at a local pub to watch the US men's soccer team beat Mexico in a World Cup qualifying round (2-0)...I drank a few calories there also. It also looks like I will be in a locally produced TV commercial for Providence Hospital. Bradley Reid (an ad-agency) interviewed me last week about my "story". I can tell they were genuinely interested in what I had to say and also tossed out the idea that Marian and Hannah might be in the commercial as well...that would be cool because I mentioned how well the Providence staff took care of Marian and Hannah. From my interview they'll develop a script which I'll read this week and then later in the week they'll film footage. Approximately 10 folks were selected for the commercial, which will also be used to produce published brochures and fliers. The producers want to start airing the commercials on March 2 so things are on a fast-track. I suppose there is a chance that my footage could wind up on the editor's floor - - so be it; it'll be fun anyway.

I went to Providence's Cardiac Rehab orientation this past week and was overwhelmed with their program. For an hour and a half I filled out paperwork, had all my vital signs measured, other body measurements made, established rehab goals, and toured the facility. The program involves, lectures, weight-work, aerobic exercises (treadmill, bike riding, etc.) and stretching exercises. My goals include gaining my 10 pounds back (as muscle mass), being able to run a 10K on the treadmill, improving my diet, and building confidence to continue exercising outside a control/monitored environment. My sessions start this week and are M, W, Th from 9:30 am to 11:15 am...insurance will cover 12 weeks but God willing, I hope to reach my goals sooner than that. I'll also meet with my cardiac specialist, Dr. Linda Ireland, this week for an exam ... hopefully I'll get the OK to start driving and will get off the meds I take to control the fluid build up in my chest cavity.

Nothing more to add other than I really appreciated the cards and calls I received this week...they really pick me up and I thank you. Be sure to eat your Powdermilk biscuts and remember, Anchorage ain't Lake Wobegon but like Russia, you can see it from here! Enjoy a cup of coffee on me ... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agusq6xfefI&feature=related