I was provided with two LASIK options.  I can receive custom LASIK, which is a procedure that corrects lower aberrations (i.e. Myopia, etc.) and higher aberrations which are unique imperfections in the eye that effect overall clarity.  Correcting these higher aberrations is also supposed to be effective in reducing night vision side effects.  The other option is conventional LASIK in which they make corrections based on a traditional eye exam.  Of course, there is a difference in price, but I went under the assumption that I would receive custom LASIK and the tests proceeded from there.

Overall the consultation lasted about 3 hours.  First they conducted an eye exam and took pictures of my eye to determine if the surgery was a plausible option.  Next they dilated my pupils (see picture below) and mapped the structure of my eye, using wavefront technology, to determine what portions of the cornea would need to be reshaped.  The drops they used paralyze the muscles that control pupil contraction.  The dilation may last up to 48 hours.  So far I am at 21 hours and I hope it wears off soon.  Since the pupil can’t constrict I am unable to focus on items or text up close and need to remove my glasses, however, I cannot see without them so it’s causing some difficulty.

I also under went tests to measure the density of my eye and the amount of tears I produce.  The density test involved numbing my eye and gently touching it with some type of measurement tool.  The tear test involved sticking strips of paper in my lower lid and keeping my eyes closed for 5 minutes.  This test revealed dry eyes, which is a potential risk to the surgery because it could adversely effect the healing process.  Since the cornea does not have blood flow it receives it’s nutrients from tear production.  To assist with this I am to begin a Restasis® regimen which will encourage my eyes to increase natural tear production.  Another option the optometrist wants me to consider is placing plugs in the tear drain on my lower lid.  I’m told the procedure is quick and you don’t feel the plugs, but I find the idea strange!

All-in-all it was a successful evaluation and I have scheduled my surgery for January 28, 2009! :) 

Training has been going fairly well.  Running 6 miles wasn’t quite as difficult as I’d imagined it to be, but it’s still tiring!  My longest run thus far was supposed to be 7 miles but I had a neck injury during week two and I could only push myself through 4 miles.  The time commitment is a bit difficult, I’ve missed a few runs due to my work schedule or other activities, however, I’ve completed the majority so I’m feeling confident that I’m on track.

Also, I’m currently winning my Nike+ challenge.

A couple of critiques I have are 1) the pre-recorded music did not always have the best pitch over the sound system and 2) the execution of some of the moves, that should have been in sync with other performers, were not.  However, overall, I was very pleased and enjoyed the show.  I’m quite interested in seeing a Cirque du Soleil performance now…

Subject: Always Check Children’s Homework.  Instructions: Read the description of the drawing below.

 *The mother works at Home Depot and was selling a shovel.*

I purchased a Horizon Elite which has received great consumer reviews, and it was conveniently on sale!  The treadmill has several features including:

• 2 year parts, 30 year motor and lifetime frame warranty
• Free delivery and set up
• An orthopedic belt
• Rust resistant paneling (in case one would sweat)
• 0-15% incline
• 0.5-12 mph speed
• 8 preset workout programs and 2 additional programs which allow you to create your own workout
• Stores data for two users (height, weight, etc.)
• And much more!

After the half marathon I will reassess my desire to have a gym membership and determine if it’s worth the cost.