July 17, 2026 Ramblings
Happy Friday!!
What a week it has been. I love Summer — getting out in the sunshine, feeling the heat on my skin, and soaking up every bit of it I can. I’m even getting a bit of a tan. But this week wasn’t about the weather; it was all about my health.
Right now, the estate process is on hold. We’re waiting for the Courts to issue the letter we need before we can access the house and finally get to everything inside. Until that arrives, everything is paused — and all we can do is wait. They said 2-3 weeks, and we are almost at week 2!
Monday, July 13
I had a doctor’s appointment to go over my bloodwork. Despite all the medications I’m on, things aren’t where they need to be — my diabetes is out of control. My doctor added a new medication and referred me to both a dietitian and a diabetic nurse, whom I saw later in the week.
My blood pressure is still higher than it should be, though that may be tied to losing my mother‑in‑law last month and everything that’s come with handling her estate. Stress takes a real toll on the body, and I’m feeling that truth in my bones.
Diabetes runs in my family. My grandmother — the one I’m named after — eventually had to go on insulin because hers progressed so far. My doctor is hoping we can avoid that path for me. She’s trying to get me on Ozempic, which has shown real results for type 2 diabetes, but the cost is a serious barrier. After talking it over with my hubby, we decided my health is worth the expense. So next month…
Tuesday, July 14
I spent the morning doing some housework, then headed out to pick up my new prescription from the pharmacy. It was a really hot day, so I took my time. Once I got home, I settled in and watched some YouTube videos — nothing too demanding, just letting myself unwind.
Wednesday, July 15
I stayed home. The weather was awful — high winds and heavy rain — and my brain felt just as stormy. I opened WordPress and tried to write, but I couldn’t get my head into it. I ended up reading posts from others instead. Honestly, I spent most of the day zoned out, one of those days where your mind simply refuses to cooperate.
And I don’t feel bad about it. I’ve had a lot going on, and I know I need time to process. Sometimes the mind and body need a day to do nothing, and I’ve learned to stop beating myself up for that.
Thursday, July 16
Yesterday’s 9:00 a.m. appointment with the dietitian and diabetic nurse went smoothly, and I left feeling genuinely encouraged. It’s been a long time since I last met with either, so there were new things to learn. What surprised me most was discovering that the foods I eat aren’t really the problem — it’s that I don’t eat often enough.
Skipping breakfast has been a lifelong habit, and I’m used to going all day without eating until dinner. I know it isn’t good for me, but eating when you’re not hungry is its own challenge. It’s something I’m going to have to practice.
Years ago, a dietitian had me on a schedule that felt impossible: breakfast, snack, lunch, snack, dinner, and another snack before bed. Too much food, too much structure, and far too expensive. Now the guidance is more realistic — eat at least three times a day, and include all the food groups. Much more doable. And as much as I love my sour cream & onion chips, they’re not exactly the kind of snack that supports what I’m trying to do. So I need to find some substitutes.
Friday, July 17
I was determined to write today, so I’m staying home for most of it. The quiet feels good, and I wanted a day where I could settle into my own thoughts without rushing anywhere. I’ll meet hubby later for some grocery shopping after he finishes work, but aside from that, I’m keeping the day for myself — my interests, my pace, whatever feels right.
I need a plan for the grocery store later today as well. Adding new foods for health reasons is gonna be fun. I will try anything, but hubby not so much.
My Thoughts
It’s been a busy week, not just physically but mentally. A lot to take in, a lot to process, and I’m giving myself the space to do exactly that. While I love our health care system, prescription drugs are not covered, and it can get expensive. I spend about $200 CAD every month now, and adding Ozempic will add another $100 CAD on top of that.
Sure, we can manage that financially, but it would cut into our “fun” money. We put aside some funds every month just to have some fun with, like the money I recently spent on fishing flies. We need some new ones for our fishing trips! It’s okay, we will find a way, we always do!
Weekend Plans!
Signal Hill is celebrating 75 years, and hubby and I are planning to spend some time there tomorrow. It’s gonna be a hot day, and I want to spend some time on the Trails there, watching for Whales and looking at the view. Maybe pack a lunch and have a picnic! Info below from the site.
75 years of Signal Hill as a national historic site – Signal Hill National Historic Site
“5 years of Signal Hill as a national historic site
Signal Hill National Historic Site
In 2026, Signal Hill marks the 75th anniversary of its designation as a National Historic Site. Originally designated for its significant military and communications history, Signal Hill has since become a well-loved gathering place where people can come together and experience history and the outdoors in a truly unique setting.
We are very excited to celebrate with you to mark Signal Hill National Historic Site’s 75th anniversary, which also coincides with the 125th anniversary of the first trans-Atlantic signal which was received at Signal Hill!”
There’s so much history here in St. John’s, and I really enjoy noticing it — the old buildings, the harbour stories, the sense of age and resilience that’s tucked into every corner of the city. It’s one of the things I love most about living here.
St. John’s carries its history right out in the open. The past isn’t tucked away; it’s woven into the streets, the harbour, the old stone, the colourful rowhouses, and the way the city moves through its days. You can feel it when you walk Water Street, when you look out over the Narrows, when you pass a building that’s stood longer than most people’s lifetimes.
Looking back over the past few days, it’s clear this week has been a mix of movement and pause — doctor’s appointments, new medications, weather that pushed me indoors, moments of encouragement, and moments where my mind simply needed rest. With the estate process on hold while we wait for the Courts, there’s a layer of uncertainty sitting quietly in the background, too.
But even with all of that, I’m finding my footing. I’m learning more about my health, taking steps toward better habits, and permitting myself to slow down when I need it. Summer is still unfolding outside my window, and I’m doing my best to meet each day as it comes — with patience, with honesty, and with a little more care for myself than before.
I know many people struggle with type 2 diabetes. How do you manage? Anyone got any suggestions for me to try?
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Comments
I take Farxiga and it helps. I also keep my meals simple and stay away from most carbs. It keeps my numbers steady and I feel clearer. Eating regularly matters more than I expected. Even small meals make a difference.
My older sister has diabetes. Her eating style was 1 meal late at night. She’s trying so hard but struggles. I only eat 2 snacks until 5pm then have dinner. 8pm supper & I’m done. I lost 102lbs thru dietary changes & excersise. You’ll get our sugars under control 🙂
Thank you Kymber, for the suggestions. I am currently on 2 meds, sitagliptin and gliclazide. I have a hard time eating regularly, but I’ve been trying to do that the past couple of days. Still can’t manage breakfast tho…I never heard of that medication but I’ll look it up.
Hope you are having a good weekend so far
Thank you for your vote of confidence. Yes, I agree, I’ll get there eventually.
It is hard to change habits you’ve have for many years, but I am trying the past couple of days. I hope your sister finds her way too.
That is awesome that you lost the weight, especially if it was an issue.
I’ve been up and down with mine, but I have managed to keep off the 80 odd lbs. I lost a few years ago. That isn’t easy either…