July has been one of those months that reminds you life is full of unexpected turns – some challenging, some clarifying, and all of them teaching us something valuable.

🏥 Health Update: Mixed News

Let me start with the foot situation update. The good news? X-rays showed no fracture! The not-so-great news? Based on my blood results showing higher-than-normal uric acid levels, I might be dealing with gout. I’ll get official confirmation when my doctor returns in September, but honestly, this has been the wake-up call I needed.

I’ve already started making some significant dietary changes – cutting out red meat (or eliminating it entirely), loading up on vegetables, drinking way more water, and just eating less overall. Sometimes our bodies force us to make the changes we’ve been putting off, right?

The silver lining? I’m able to wear shoes again and do some gentle walking. I’ve even made it back to the driving range, both solo and with Alaine. No basketball for me though – the team got eliminated from the tournament (not because I wasn’t playing!), and honestly, that might have been my last competitive tournament. I’m okay with that.

⛳ Golf Journey: Patience and Progress

Alaine and I are still sticking to the driving range for now. We’re both eager to hit the fairways, but I want to make sure my feet are completely ready before we take that next step. Sometimes the best progress is knowing when to be patient with yourself.

🎬 Content Evolution: The Immigrant Chronicles Returns

Big news on the content front! I completed the “Personal Productivity Simplified” series and made an important decision about the direction of my content.

I’m bringing back The Immigrant Chronicles – but with a twist. Instead of the interview format that was incredibly difficult to schedule, I’m making it a solo format where I can consistently create content that helps fellow immigrants navigate this journey.

I’ve already recorded some episodes I’m excited about:

• Special Days, New Places: Finding Joy & Connection Abroad (inspired by Alaine’s birthday on July 19th)
• Making New Friends and Building Your Circle as an immigrant

The new format lets me cover a variety of topics – both the good and the challenging realities of immigrant life. I want to be honest about the full spectrum of this experience.

💭 Personal Reflections

July also reminded me of the importance of connections and relationships. Recent events have reinforced my commitment to reconnecting with old friends and being more intentional about maintaining the relationships that matter. Life is too short and too unpredictable not to prioritize the people who’ve been part of our journey.

🌞 Summer Simplicity

As for summer adventures, we’ve been keeping things low-key – enjoying some nice restaurants in the area and focusing on quality time together. My main goal for what’s left of summer? Simply enjoying time with Alaine. Sometimes the best summers aren’t about grand adventures but about appreciating the simple moments.

🤔 How Are You Doing?

I’m pulling an Elmo here – how are you doing? Really, how are you? I know that might seem like a simple question, but I genuinely want to know how you’re navigating your own summer, your own challenges, and your own wins.

Elmo is just checking in! How is everybody doing?

— Elmo (@elmo) January 29, 2024

📺 One Quick Favor

If you’re finding value in any of my content – whether it’s the productivity stuff or the immigrant experiences – I’d be incredibly grateful if you’d subscribe to my YouTube channel: Coach Rye.

Your support helps me reach more people who might benefit from these conversations, and honestly, it just means a lot to know you’re along for the journey.

🎯 Looking Ahead

August is about continuing to prioritize health, hopefully getting cleared to hit the golf course with Alaine, and creating content that genuinely helps people. No grand plans – just focusing on the fundamentals and being present for whatever comes next.

Thanks for sticking with me through all the pivots, updates, and life’s curveballs. Your continued support means everything.

More power to you, Coach Rye

P.S. Seriously, drop me a line and let me know how you’re doing. I read every reply, and your stories often inspire my content more than you know! 💙