Where have I been? Short story long!
My job has been keeping me busy, and behind the scenes, I’ve been navigating some health hurdles. Balancing all of this while being a wife and mom is a challenge, to say the least! I finally "caved" and went to a functional health doctor (not covered by insurance, but worth every penny). It’s confirmed: I am officially starting perimenopause. Apparently, this phase can last up to 10 years. Yay!
Beyond the hormones, I found out I’m struggling with both iron-deficiency and vitamin-deficiency anemia, along with a major lack of Vitamin D. All of this combined made me an absolute emotional mess. I knew I wasn't technically "depressed," but I certainly felt like I was. Brain fog, exhaustion, feeling overstimulated, and weight gain—it was a lot.
The positive is that I now have a plan, a fantastic medical team, and the knowledge that I’m not actually losing my mind. Prayers and giving myself grace have been a huge part of my daily focus as I navigate this new season.
The Corporate Whirlwind (and a Wardrobe Malfunction)
While I’ve been working on my health, my day job in banking has been in high gear. I work in Treasury Management in conjunction with the Commercial Banking team. I specialize in building online banking platforms for large customers—handling things like ACH, remote deposit capture, and merchant services—and training both clients and employees.
Our bank recently acquired a large institution, so I’ve been traveling quite a bit for data conversions. Acquisitions are a massive "extra" on top of my daily responsibilities, but I’m hoping the hard work leads to a promotion to Level 2 or Team Lead this year!
I actually enjoy the travel, but it does come with its moments. Case in point: my zipper recently broke on my work pants while I was in the restroom. Of course, the zipper was on the back, so I had to shuffle through the office holding my pants together so I didn't flash anyone. To make matters worse, a group of men decided that was the perfect time to huddle and chat in the hallway during my "walk of shame." This is exactly why I always travel with a change of clothes, even on day trips!
The Road to Feeling Like "Me" Again
I am slowly starting to feel like myself again, though I say that as I sit on the couch with a heating pad. (Have I mentioned how lucky we women are?)
My current routine involves a cocktail of supplements, low-dose hormone replacement therapy, and inositol for stress. I’m spending these first few weeks just getting used to the new regimen. My goal for this weekend is pure relaxation; I’m in my menstrual phase, and the first three days are always a battle. Anemia and periods are a "lovely" combo of exhaustion.
Looking Ahead: Monday is Day One
Starting Monday, I’m refocusing on my health through diet and exercise. I’m not going extreme, but I want to lose the 10 pounds that crept up on me. I’m starting a free YouTube program called "Pilates with Izzy." It’s low-impact and focuses on the midsection, which is where I’m carrying that extra weight. I hate high-impact workouts with a passion!
I’ll also be adding in some strength training. Because of the Vitamin D deficiency and a family history of osteoporosis, my doctor wants me to focus on bone density while I can.
I hope you all are doing well. I’m planning to post more regularly now—I know I’ve said that before, but this time, I truly mean it!
XoXo,
Kathleen
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