Pleasantly, Smilingly, Nonapologetically.

So I didn't get a call about my blood and poo samples and after a couple of weeks I went to go see my doctor (turns out you can't just call and get results over the phone).

Nothing.

No parasites (thank the Lord!).  No parasite eggs.  No parasite cysts.  No E.coli.  No salmonella.  No pathogenic bacteria.

Nothing!

My levels are all healthy.

And I'm *still* having stomach episodes.  As recently as a couple of days ago.

Mention of this strange situation to friends has led me to the conclusion that this is very possibly the result of stress.  I know it's not like I'm openly freaking out and getting anxiety attacks or anything, but my stomach is definitely trying to tell me something.  Consciously I feel fine, but my autonomic nervous system debates that.

So I had to slice off something in my life - the salsa team.  It made the most sense, considering my ankle is not getting better and gets quite angry at high-heeled shoes these days.  Even just normal dress-up non-dancing ones.  Not okay.  Salsa dancing is wonderful, but even more so is being pain-free and stomach-strong.  At least I had a blast at the Las Vegas Salsa Congress with them.  My last congress as part of that team.

It's quite the change, but it will allow other things into my life.  I can still be physical without jumping around in heels.  Pilates, kettlebells, yoga of many forms ... I'll never run out.  Plus I'm still going to stay with the Afro-Cuban team (barefoot activity = strong feet). It's all gotta be trial and error.  And if my body keeps acting up, then I'll just have to re-evaluate my life and slice off more "stress" and add in more "happy."

Like finally going to the magical Okanagan for a best friend's baby shower (just moments before this pic, I was spewing my guts out at the beach washroom - eep).  Kudos to my lipstick for staying on.

Wineries are so soothing.  Why didn't I do them more when I used to live in the Okanagan?  I've never bought so much wine at once.  I'm really digging the fruit ("fruit" meaning non-grape) wines - I bought crab apple (white) and cherry (red) along with the more traditional stuff.

Or enjoying more social non-dance events like the first ever Diner en Blanc in Edmonton.  With my beautiful harem. 

  It rained like mad, but we survived the wet chill and enjoyed all the elegance.

And of course, hanging with Hachi :)

And being able to work late without having to rush to practices.
And just having the time to dream and think.

R.I.P. flight MH17 passengers :(