Been mailing in a few sessions. Have a bit of a cold going and just feel dragged out.
This might help:
And my latest oatmeal concoction. Not too brilliant looking in pic.,but very tasty!
2 diced apples, 2 cups of oats, 1 cup crushed cashews. A generous amount of nutmeg, a couple splashes of vanilla extract, and a dash of cinnamon.
In for the food blog, what’s the top one?
Pork loin, brazed in olive oil and seasoned with a good bit of black pepper and garlic, then covered with sauerkraut in a crock pot.
The past week was pretty much a bust. When I get cold/chest symptoms it really freaks me out, so I didn’t do much at all. A couple of 10 min. rides per day to keep on keeping on, but really, nothing.
Last night, however, I did feel good again and hit:
3 sets of single arm curls @ 20 lbs. for 15 reps/set.
3 sets of overhead press @ 20 lbs. for 20 reps/set.
3 sets of goblet squats, yaddayaddayadda.
So there’s that.
Way to keep going!
Thank you.
A lot of the challenge of the past few months has been staying in the present and doing what I can to move forward. I get caught up in the “used-to’s” a little too much, especially when I’m already not feeling very good. “I used to ____ no matter what” or “I never used to let _____ bother me back when la-dee-da…”.
Its a vicious game to play with ones self.
I think you’re doing great. Just
emotionally and the rest will follow.
I can’t imagine what it’s like for you.
I had kidney surgery back in April and had to take some time off from squats and deadlifts (I was well on the way to a 300lb deadlift), but that was nothing compared to what you went through.
With that said, the patience I got from that has really helped me actually stick to a program and work on my bench for once 
Although, WAYYYY easier said than done
It’s not bad. Realistically I should be counting my blessings instead of cursing what I don’t have.
So, gratitude list time:
I have an amazing young son.
A kind and loving wife.
A few of the best friends anybody could ask for.
Three great brothers and one great sister.
The ability to ride an exercise bike or lift weights at my leisure.
In my house. Which is quite toasty. (damn blood thinners and nitrate drugs)
An exceptionally well rounded and eclectic on line support group (all yinz).
Some pretty damn fancy cardiac hardware and literally immediate access to some of the best cardiologists in the world (in the event that something else does happen).
There’s a ton more, but I have to go pick up the kiddo from the school bus. And his first grade teacher is awesome too.
Actually, the oatmeal concoction was ridiculously good. I ate almost half of it later that night and the rest of it the next day, so like 6 cups within 24 hrs.
I’m in a lack luster phase. Been hopping on the bike and getting it in, but only that.
Last night I was feeling a little sparky so I did some dumbbell work for arms/shoulders. Just the 20 lb’r for about an hour. It worked, but I’m just not feeling it.
Keep it up- at least you’re still staying active on the bike! I find that the best method for getting back is just to stay consistent- even 5 min is better than nothing
are you on a program?
Nah. I’m really just winging it with a “Just do something every day” philosophy.
In the interim since that last post:
10 miles in 41 min.
10 min. @ 45 rpm.
10 min. @ 50 rpm.
20 min. @ 50+
Broke into 60+ range intermittently. Was actually feeling pretty good throughout.
Songs:
Recomended heart rate limits kind of go right out the window with those tunes. But I’ve noticed that through it all performance is steadily increasing while the feeling of exertion is steadily dropping away.
you’re doing the transformation thing right?
I haven’t officially said yes, but it really does seem like something I should do. I could use to lose a few lbs. and uncover a little muscle (emphasis on little) if not build some.
And you?
Aesthetics aren’t really my priority. Have to chase the 300lb+ deadlift 
I somewhat agree with your points, except for the muscle building, but also understand how ocd I can get when I set out to accomplish a goal and meet a deadline.
Sometimes the juice is not worth the squeeze (never. It’s never worth it). I stress myself out to unhealthy levels for things that don’t actually matter a whole lot.
are you familiar with Mind Pump?
They have some pretty good resources/programs - https://www.mindpumpmedia.com/
Their podcast is also really good- 1/2 banter (they talk about everything from politics to kid stories), 1/2 very valuable fitness/nutrition info
