A Battle with Shingles: A Story of Recovery and Rediscovered Wisdom
Greetings everyone! I am deeply grateful for all the kind messages and well wishes during my recovery from a recent shingles flare-up on my face. The ordeal was quite daunting as the shingles crept down to my left eyelid, sparking concerns about potential vision loss. Fortunately, my optometrist conducted an examination and reassured me that my eyes were unharmed. She imparted a valuable piece of advice – Tagamet, an over-the-counter ulcer medication, could potentially shorten the duration of the outbreak. Combining this with antiviral pills, Tagamet proved to be a remedy used in the past to combat shingles before antiviral treatments became widely available. It is perplexing how this effective treatment was overlooked by medical practitioners at two urgent care centers I visited, and even my brother, an ER physician. Nonetheless, the shingles have started to scab over, and my recovery journey seems promising as the pain on my face and scalp begins to ease.
Financial and Personal Achievements of July
On the personal finance front, July unfolded as a favorable month. While vacationing in Japan and Thailand, we were delighted to find that our passive income adequately covered our expenses, offering a sense of financial security. Our time in Thailand was especially economical, with the serenity of beach life soothing our souls. Despite a minor inconvenience with the unfinished bathroom at our beach house, our stay at a budget-friendly hotel costing a mere $18 per day was a small price to pay for blissful moments spent by the shore. Dining out proved to be exceptionally affordable as well, rounding off a lovely getaway filled with relaxation and exploration.
Reflecting on 2024 Goals and Financial Progress
As we advance through the year 2024, it is crucial to assess and recalibrate our goals to align with the evolving landscape of our lives. Here’s a glimpse of how we’re faring:
2024 Goals:
- My meticulously organized 2024 goal spreadsheet continues to serve as a reliable tool for tracking my progress. Regular monthly reviews of this spreadsheet enable me to identify areas needing more attention, fostering a proactive approach to goal achievement.
- Financial Goals:
- FI ratio > 100%: Reaching a momentous milestone, our FI ratio currently stands at 124% after 7 months, well surpassing our target of 100%. This surplus opens the doors to a slightly more relaxed perspective on spending as we embrace the latter half of the year.
- Health Goals:
- Exercise 3x per week: Prioritizing my health as I embrace my 50s, the commitment to exercising at least 3 times a week remains non-negotiable, fostering longevity and vitality.
- Health checks: Tending to health maintenance and preventative care are paramount at this juncture of life. Successfully ticking off various health checks on my list, such as colonoscopy, dental exam, and vision screening, instills confidence in proactive health management.
Concluding Thoughts
July was a month marked by recovery, rejuvenation, and financial security. The journey through challenges and triumphs sheds light on the resilience and adaptability we harbor within. As we forge ahead into August, armed with newfound wisdom and determination, let us stride confidently towards our goals and aspirations, savoring each moment along the way. Remember – health is wealth, and investing in oneself lays the foundation for a fruitful and fulfilling life. Cheers to new beginnings and continued growth on the path to personal and financial well-being!
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