Since my last post (in May), so much has happened that I probably can't recall all of it in one post. I'll try to present the highlights.
I started taking Bellydance lessons at a nearby community center, and I really enjoy it. I'm not planning on dancing professionally, but it is a fun way to get exercise and to meet new female friends. The instructor is an excellent dancer, but she is also somewhat an expert on the culture and history of the dance. I love learning about the differences between Egyptian dance and Greek dance, and between Traditional and Tribal styles. I've developed a taste for the music, too.
My pelvic pain has returned, which indicates that the endometriosis is growing again. Rather than have surgery again so soon, I opted to have Lupron depot injections. Of course, my medical insurance does not cover the injections (at $400 per injection, one injection per month). I haven't begun the treatment yet.
I kicked the Zoloft to the curb! Yes, I am a little depressed at times... but I'm drug free. I do take vitamins and herbal supplements with St. John's Wort, which seem to help the symptoms from being as severe as before the Zoloft. I also gave up morning coffee and enjoy green tea or herbal tea instead.
I truly believe my depression and anxiety are symptoms (along with my endometriosis, acne, and weight gain) of a hormone imbalance, so I have a consultation scheduled with an endocrinologist later this month.
In the meantime, a strange lump on my left tonsil has been annoying me for over a month. The lump has not responded to a course of antibiotics, so Dr. M referred me to an ENT who I will see this Friday.
Jim and I attended my 30 year High School Reunion in August. I enjoyed visiting with friends I hadn't seen for 30 years.
I haven't been back to school because of the medical issues, and I'm still unemployed. I've been volunteering behind the scenes to help our city plan an animal shelter and a dog park.