That's normal...

A visit to the surgeon's office today - the 5 week check up.  We were early, and wound up visiting with a guy who got a new knee 2 weeks ago.  I remember that look of pain and lack of sleep.  He wasn't sure what they were going to do with this 2 week check up.  I told him, "They will take X-rays, look over your incision, ask you about the pain, tell you you're doing great, and that will be it.  If you get the same person I had, she looked like she was in Junior High."

I think he was relieved to know it wouldn't be anything more extensive than that.  He said, "I seem to cry a lot."

I told him, "I was downright weepy frequently.  It's the meds  And the fact that you are in shock that it isn't the cakewalk people told you it would be.  It gets better."  He seemed pleased to hear that.

They called us in early, had a nurse look me over and ask if I had any questions, then they turned me over to a nice nurse practitioner.  Everything I asked about, she said, "Yeah, that's normal."

I asked about the scar position and size... "Yeah, that's normal."
I asked about the giant bruise on my tailbone... "Yeah, that's normal."
I asked about the pain since my set-back... "Yeah, that's normal."
My leg has swollen some since I got off the blood thinner... "Yeah, that's normal."
My testicles are the size of bowling balls, one is green the other is purple... "Yeah, that's - what?"  I'm kidding.  The nads are fine, thanks for asking.

She did ask to see the incision.  I dropped my shorts and skivvies enough to see that big ol' scar and she said, "That looks real nice."  So, better than "normal."  Also, it has been a long time since I have been told "That looks real nice" when dropping trou.

One big deal today: I can take Ibuprofen again!  I am off the blood thinner; you can't take Ibuprofen when on that stuff.  Tylenol does nothing.  Hydro-codone is not a good fit for me: all the side effects without much of the pain relief.  So, time to stock up on Ibuprofen until this hurtin' stuff goes away... and, they tell me it should go away... but for now, if it hurts... yeah, that's normal.

After the doctor's office visit, we went out for a late lunch like real people.  Now, that is more my idea of normal.  I took some Ibuprofen when we got to the restaurant.  It may be wishful thinking, but it sure seems like the pain was less within an hour.

Both the nurse and the nurse practitioner said, "Walking is the best thing you can do for your hip.  Use the cane until you can walk normal without it."  (A bit non-commital as far as "How long before I can dump the cane?")

Another first today: before going to the doctor's office, we stopped at Sam's Club to get a few things.  Joan was concerned about me having to walk around in there; I said, "I'll use one of their electric carts."  Yep.  Some of those carts are nicer than others.  I got one of the not nicer than others, but it got me around.  Slower than I thought.  I never paid much attention to those in the past.  Seemed like there were quite a few people using them today.  Some of those people looked reasonably able-bodied.  One had a young mother with a kid on her lap... she would go a ways, get off the cart to get what she wanted, put it in the basket, then back onto the cart.  No, I have no idea what their situation is... but if the situation is "lazy," I hope they are not taking a cart from someone who truly needs it.

So, even though it was (mostly) dealing with medical stuff, a pretty good day.  When we got home, I went for my afternoon walk... extending the distance by one lot.  Figuring the size of each lot, I am over 2 1/2 city blocks now.  When I told the nurse today that I was up to about "2 blocks with each walk," she said: "That's about normal."

Normal?  Well, kinda.

Probably has something to do with the concert...

We had a great experience at the Billy Joel concert in Phoenix at Chase Field when we were there this winter.  When Mark and I got together after that, he worked up Piano Man.  We recorded that at his his house in March, but we didn't have microphones and other instruments.

Last night, I got some new tracks from Mark: three piano tracks and a vocal cue track.  "What's a vocal cue track?" you ask.  Thanks for asking.  While playing, Mark told me what change was coming, when to add the harmonica, and when to come in with the vocals.  With that track, I had his directions "in my ear" while recording.  And then, muted that track.  It worked slick.

I had some time this morning, and planned on just rehearsing.  I haven't picked up the harmonica in about a month and a half.  I was a bit rusty... but on the bright side, I haven't picked up any new bad habits.  ;-)

I practiced the singing, and adding the harmonica a couple times... then decided to lay down a track of each.  I thought it went slick.  I moved on to the bass.  The piano really drives the percussion, but I listened to an old Billy Joel cut of the song, and it had a quiet drum part.  One more track with drums.

And, the result...

https://soundcloud.com/captainjimb/piano-man-v22

I sent this result back to Mark.  There is one track left, if he decides to add something else to it.  No guitar track on this.  I'm good with that.  (Almost like being a man of leisue.)

I held my breath...

In my physical therapy session yesterday, the therapist had me do the exercise that caused the set-back 11 days ago.  Tenderly.  And, he "helped" me move it.  It hurts, but nothing "popped."  Whew.  Joan will help with with that one for a while.

When walking outside with the therapist, we have time to talk.  I ask the "When do you think..." questions, and he tries to give vague answers.  I realize he can't say, "You will be walking without the cane a week from Thursday," but I like to know that I am on track.

Back inside, I said, "I think I am ready to drive."  He and Joan looked at each other.  It wasn't one of those "Hey, good idea!" looks.  I may have to slip the key in my pocket and go for a little solo drive when Joan isn't looking.  If Joan is reading this, of course I am kidding.

I specifically asked about being able to crouch down... to do the hook-up stuff with the RV.  His response: "That is going to be a while, but you will be good to supervise that if you have a willing travel partner."  I don't think one of us wants to learn how to hook up the sewer hose and I am good with that.  I am just thinking ahead to being able to go somewhere in the RV when I (we) can.  Because it is going to get hotter and more humid here as the summer progresses.  This hip recuperation hasn't changed my "itchy feet" issues.

The new cane is nicer than my old wood one.  I am up to about a block with each outing.  And, making small increases in distance each day.  I still get the "don't over-do it" talk with each PT session. 

Wood vs Carbon Fiber...

Yeah, this topic comes up a lot on the guitar forum where I spend the most time... of course, it is specifically a carbon fiber guitar sub-forum, so you know the preference there.

Frankly, they each have their attributes.  Wood is traditional; carbon fiber is contemporary.  Wood can be carved and put together piece by piece; carbon fiber is formed, generally in a mold.  Wood is affected by temperature and humidity; carbon fiber isn't.

In the last few years, I have been all about the carbon fiber.  Last week, it was determined that I could really use an update.  A wood model that has served me for years is showing the wear: the main joint had loosened to the point where I began to doubt its structural integrity.  I have others, so I was looking more for function; Joan was being swayed by style: decorated with flames and it folds!

She said, "You are going to have this for a while, so you might as well get something nice and not have to worry about replacing it."

I said, "Flames?  You think those are necessary?"  What can I say - she was very encouraging with the first carbon fiber guitar I bought because the fretboard had inlaid sharks as markers.

I relented.

Today, the new model arrived.  It is pretty.  The folding function may come in handy if I need to keep it compact when not in use.  And the flames?  Well, they are kinda cool.  What I first noticed was the weight... or rather the lack of weight: it weighs substantially less than the wood one it is replacing.  And it feels very sturdy... and sleek.  I do like the look of the carbon fiber weave... and while the flames don't add to the function, it is an interesting style choice.  Joan said, "It will be a conversation starter."  Not that I am looking for that.

I was playing my Emerald X7 when FedEx dropped it off.  No, this isn't made by Emerald, but it is functional and stylish...

I think I will be able to walk faster thanks to the flames.  ;-)

Memorial Day and changing seasons...

Today is the day we remember and give thanks to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for this country.  For many, this is the official unofficial start of the summer season (with the Summer Solstice being the "official" start of summer).

There are definite seasons in the resort where we live.  December, January, and February is the Winter Texan season.  It is what brought us here years ago: escaping the frozen northland to the warmth of the Tropical Tip.  The resort is alive with planned activities, potluck dinners, and friendly seasoned citizens.

March is a transition month: the Winter Texans are heading home, Spring Break is ramping up.  Spring Break isn't a big deal on our island - compared to the rowdy party atmosphere that takes over South Padre Island.  There is an unofficial policy here about not renting to spring break revelers, but occasionally you can tell that Grandma and Grandpa let their grandkid and friends use their place.  The big issue is the traffic once you get off our island and into Port Isabel and South Padre Island.

April and May is quiet time; the winter people are gone, the summer people haven't arrived.  The northers that blow in during the winter are gone; Mother Nature is warming things daily in anticipation of summer.  No crowds.  Always a table available at our favorite restaurants.

June is the official start of Hurricane Season (June 1 through Nov 30).  It is always in the back of your mind.  The last "direct hit" we had was in 2008 when Hurricane Dolly caused extensive damage in the area.

It is also the start of the summer people season: mostly people from the Valley who rent for the summer.  It is cooler here on the coast and this place is an escape for what seems like working families.  The vibe changes: golf carts with stereos blasting (often driven by those too young to have a license, even though there are rules against that) roaring up and down the streets.  The pools are packed.  Screaming kids.  Smokey grills and more music on the patios.  It is busier and noisier on the weekends.  Over on SPI, the beach is packed, as are the restaurants and bars.  Summer is the busy season there.  Jet skis and small fishing boats roar around on the water.

It is hot and humid.  This is the generally when we get out of here.  That may not be happening this year, with the new hip.  We'll see how this all plays out.  We like being able to get to some place cooler and quieter.  Folks like us who have this as our only home consider July to be the least pleasant month, with crowds, noise, heat and humidity.  In August, the weather stays hot and humid, but the summer crowds start to diminish.

By the time September rolls around, kids are back in school and families are spending more time at their homes in the Valley than out here on the coast.  Generally, we have come back home in late September to early October.

October and November are my favorite months here: the weather is generally perfect, warm but not as humid.  The crowds are gone.  Time out on the water is blissfully quiet.  There are weekend "events" (planned to bring people to SPI) on SPI, but generally not huge crowds.

December and the anticipation of the Winter Texans arriving.  The restaurant and shop owners look forward to being busy again.  Mother Nature starts sending down northers to remind us why we left the frozen northland... while last winter was colder and windier than normal, there is generally more nice weather than northers.

Summer has started.  We saw more people and activity on Friday and Saturday than Sunday.  Although, I did holler at a kid driving a golf cart to "Slow down!" while I was out on one of my walks.  These are not the typical golf carts - they are souped-up versions with bigger wheels and faster speeds.  The general shape of a golf cart.  This time of year, often seen with kids hanging all over them, like a crowded street car in San Francisco... if that street car could jump the tracks and be driven by a 12 year old.

The restaurants change their specials and menu offerings for summer.  What was "Meatloaf Monday" during the Winter Texan season is now "Shrimp Salad and Avocado Monday"... "Fish Taco Wednesday."  It is good to know your customer base.

We sat out on our deck for a while yesterday afternoon.  It is warm, but nice shade and some breeze.  A refreshing change of pace.  Rufus enjoyed being out there with us.  Golf carts going to and from the pool area.  People out and about.  And when we want, we can go inside, close the door, and enjoy the peace and quiet.

The season has changed.  One of the things I asked the physical therapist on Friday was, "When do you think I'll be able to get down on my hands and knees to do something on the ground?"  He was noncommittal: "You'll know when you're ready."  I looked at Joan and could see that she knew I was talking about being able to do the utilities on the motorhome.  Our "escape pod."

Memories...

I kinda enjoy the FaceBook Memories it shows you when you sign on for the first time each day.  Well, most days.  Whales, boating, Izzy, Rufus, scooting... mostly fun memories ('cause that's what I post on FB).

Why, just one week ago, I was kicking butt on this hip situation.  And then, late afternoon: "pop"... it wasn't a weasel.  The stabbing pain in my hip was matched by the sinking feeling in my stomach.  The unknown, wondering what I damaged.

This past week has been a slower move forward, after that big step back.  I am not quite up to the exercise levels or the walking distance of last Saturday, but I am getting close.  There won't be another PT session until Tuesday, so I have time to work on my own.


--------------

This therapy helps, too...

Rufus is happier now that I've moved on from the walker, too - he is not a fan of that clunky sounding thing.  He is back to providing "security" as I move around the house.

----------

I have mentioned not being a "back sleeper."  In all the years I've occasionally tried to sleep on my back, it hasn't happened.  So, that has been a forced situation the past 4 weeks.  I have tried to roll onto my hip (the good one)... nope, that hurts.  Joan got a body pillow for me, and last night was the first time I was able to use it to roll onto my hip without a bunch of pain.  I slept for 2 hours... just like "the good ol' days"!

The pillow is a beast, though - it's like having a 3rd body in the bed.  Well, a 4th when you consider Rufus stakes a claim on some of the bed, too.  What?  No, I don't think Rufus would let me use him as a body pillow.

On a scale of 1 to 10...

If I was told I was "an 8 1/2," I'd be feeling pretty good about that.  I have to be honest: I may not be able to get by on my looks much longer.  It concerns me that I may have to learn an actual skill.

Yeah, I'm digressing again.

This has been a tough week.  Today is 4 weeks since the surgery.  After the muscle-popping set-back last Saturday, it has been a week of taking it easier, but still working on the mobility.  I was "demoted" from the cane back to the walker.  The muscles on the side of my hip hurt like hell.  I had to alter exercises to not cause any more pain, but not let the work I'd done slip away.  How much is enough?  Or, too much?

Today, when the PT guy put me through my paces, he said, "You are doing much better.  It shows."  He cleared me to use the walker "as needed," but I am back to using the cane most of the time once again.  If I can build those hip/butt muscles without popping something again, the progress will go faster.

I let him know we went out for lunch yesterday, and I tolerated the steps with no issue.  With yesterday's outing and today's performance, he also cleared me to walk outside again... "With little increases each day."

He asked me to try a step without the cane... "Nope!  You are not ready for that!"  He had me walk around the kitchen island without the cane, supporting myself on the countertop.  Try it with just your fingertips.  (still OK)  Just two fingers.  (not so good)  Just one finger... "You're just messing with my head, aren't ya?" I asked.

"Soon, you will be able to take a couple steps without any support - as long as you have something like the countertop to support yourself if necessary.  One finger does not support you any better than two fingers."

"So, are you saying 'it's in my head' 'cause the pain tells me it's in my hip."

"No, you are doing fine."

We went outside and he had me walk up the street a bit.  "Your gait is good.  You need to lean less on the cane.  On a scale from one to 10, your walking today is an 8 1/2"  A good score from the Polish judge!  And a definite improvement from Wednesday's session.

More work to do, but I feel I am back on track again.  One step at a time.

The baby needs new shoes...

No, I have not taken up the gambling life.  No, Rufus is just fine with his white gloves and boots; no need for any other shoes.  The Honda CR-V is about ready for new tires, and Discount Tire has a Memorial Day special (10% mail-in rebate).  I called them yesterday, made the deal over the phone, and set up an appointment for today.  That means yet another trip into Harlingen.

The good news: Joan suggested I stay home... and we'd go out for lunch when she got back.  I like that plan!  Our dealings with Discount Tire have always been good - they are friendly, efficient, and competitive on price.  Their people hustle while they work, and they always seem to have good people.

With an appointment, Joan got right in, and they had all 4 tires balance, mounted, and ready to go (including the paperwork) in about 40 minutes; and, they were busy.  When she called to tell me she was on her way home, she said, "That could not have gone better - these guys are great!"

For some reason, I have been craving fried chicken.  OK, I know the reason: Cracker Barrel has been running an ad on TV with a great-looking chicken dinner.  We don't have a Cracker Barrel, but we do have Blackbeard's, and one of their specialties is chicken fried chicken and chicken friend steak.  Chicken fried steak is a Texas thing: they pound out a less-than-tender piece of beef (to tenderize it, of course), then dip it in batter and fry it up like you would fry chicken.  Put enough gravy on it, add mashed potatoes and green beans, and you have a Texas tradition.  It is kind of the same thing for chicken fried chicken, except it doesn't have to be pounded.

The down side of going to Blackbeard's: the restaurant is up one level from the parking lot: that means a long ramp or up some stairs.  In my current condition, I handle stairs with less pain than any kind of ramp.  This is my outing for the day.

I made it up the stairs, we got seated, and chicken fried chicken (for me) and chicken fried steak (for Joan) was ordered... it was every bit as good as my taste buds had anticipated.  The Thursday before a holiday weekend, it was surprisingly uncrowded.

Time to head for home.  Those stairs I mentioned...

Moving forward!  (With a full belly!)

Now, I need a nap.

;-)


------------------

Happy School's Out Day!

I got a call from Steph this afternoon: her school year is done.  She will have a couple weeks off before two weeks of a math program/summer school.  Then, three weeks off and it will be time for back to school.  Dang, that seems to go fast.  When I was a kid, I remember getting three months off for summer.  Three whole months, all in one big bunch.  That was a different time.

Hugs to our girl and son-in-law, Dan: enjoy that time off, however short, with no schedules and no really early mornings!

Invasion of Privacy...

I see the City of San Francisco has made a law restricting the use of facial recognition software.  No, this post has nothing to do with that.  I really don't care of the government knows whether I am walking through the airport or not.  And for the record: I'm not.  Walking through the airport, that is.

I'm talking about an expectation of privacy in your personal life.  When I was in the hospital recently, there was no privacy.  When the nurse comes into the room, putting on a glove while asking if you have had a bowel movement... followed by: "Have you ever had a suppository?"  Yeah, no privacy.

Every medical person seems to want to look at my incision.  Seriously, I don't think the woman at the front counter who makes appointments really needs to look at my incision.  The PT guys, after checking the incision, poke and prod, and comment about the swelling and bruising.  That's probably part of their job, huh?

But, in your own bathroom, while cleaning up, you expect some degree of privacy.  There are 4 wall switches in my bathroom - three of them are for different lights, one is for the exhaust fan.  I was standing at the sink; just finished shaving; was well into the final bits of sponge bathing.  The door opened, and light switches were being pressed... it was like being in a disco.  Well, except I was wearing non-skid socks.  Just non-skid socks.  Joan said, "That bruise on your tailbone is nasty looking."

"Thank you for noticing."  Tailbone is a euphemism for ass.  It is a big ugly bruise on my ass.  I wasn't awake during the hip procedure, but I am pretty sure I rolled off the operating table a time or twelve.  Apparently landed on something blunt.  But, I digress.  Back to the situation at hand: next thing I know, I hear the camera click.  Photos of the bruise on my ass, the incision, and various other bruises on the back of my leg are being taken.

"Does that hurt?"

"Yes, when you poke at it."

I am standing there, in all my sexy soxy-ness, with a soaped-up wash cloth ready to finish the last thing you finish when sponge bathing.  I heard the door close.  Privacy.

Two things that need to be said: I can't imagine getting through this without my Honey.  She has made this tough situation doable; been right beside me for every middle of the night trip to the potty.  Had all my meds laid out.  Scheduled things with the doctors.  Encouraged when I needed it.  I know it has been a bunch of work for her.  If she wants photos of my scarred up, bruised ol' ass, who am I to deny her that?

The other thing that needs to be said?  Thanks for asking.  No, I will not be posting those photos here.  Maybe for the Christmas newsletter.

;-)


------------------------

30/70... maybe 40/60.  Just finished today's PT session.  I am back to "part time" with the cane.  Using my own judgement.  The injury that happened last Saturday had nothing to do with the cane usage.  The result was extreme pain when tying to use the cane, thus the reason for back to the walker.  Exercising is slowly building, but avoiding the maneuver (for now) that caused the injury.  I feel I'm back on track.

While on a short walk outside, the physical therapist said, "Almost every recovery from this type of surgery has a setback or two along the way.  You are doing fine."

Pretty sure he gets paid to say that.  Kidding aside, I like these two PT guys.

BBQ...

No, we didn't smoke any meat.  Although, you could almost do it with the outside air temp right now: it is 90º, with the south wind gusting to 39 mph.  Bringing in that moist Gulf air, the "feels like" temp is 99º.  For a boy who has been living in air conditioned comfort, that feels pretty warm.

When Joan asked what I wanted for lunch today, I was all about going out.  I have been craving some crispy chicken, and Blackbeard's on the island has tasty chicken fried chicken.  The only problem is: it is a lot of stairs or a long ramp to get from the parking lot up to the restaurant (all on the second level).  Since I am current "walker bound", neither stairs nor a ramp is a good combination.

I opted for BBQ, which here means Porky's (I Like Pig Butts and I Cannot Lie).  A quick glance on Facebook showed they have their two mean platter on special today.  Works for me.  Plus, there is parking right by the door, with no steps.

The food was good; our waitress asked about the walker and entertained us with the details of her daughter's wedding (which was HUGE).  Small town life.

It was my "outing" for the day.  While I may have fudged a teensy bit with the "no going outside", I did use the walker instead of the cane for this short outing.

On the bright side, the sharp pain that happened with the "pop" on Saturday has subsided quite a bit.  I think I'll be ready to pick up the pace again tomorrow.

I used to kid my dear ol' Mother...

... her social life had her spending a lot of time with doctors.  And, she liked it.  Not sure if it was something to do or if she felt better being told she was doing well.  Oh, she had plenty of medical issues over the years, but she would follow medical advice without question, and if her kidney function was up 1% over the previous visit, it was a triumph.  Conversely, a 1% decrease was a crushing blow.  She had different doctors for different issues, and seemed to look forward to each visit.

I didn't get that gene.  Another doctor's appointment this afternoon, back to the internist.  Pretty sure it is a follow-up to all the blood tests, blood pressure meds, that they started prior to the hip surgery.  An hour drive, wait in the office, go into another room where you wait some more, a visit, then an hour drive back home.  Kinda shoots the heck out of the day.

I had physical therapy this morning.  I do kinda look forward to that most of the time, because I can generally see/gauge the motion improvement and see what new exercise they'll come up with.  This morning's session was a definite step back while allowing whatever "popped" on Saturday time to heal.  Backed off on the exercises.

The therapist explained what likely happened, telling us about the "3 layers" of sutures used to close me up, and how the deepest layer of those sutures do not dissolve.  It's going to hurt for a while while the healing happens.

According to "the schedule," I have two PT sessions left.  Anything beyond that is up to the discretion of the doctor, and I've been told he isn't inclined to recommend more therapy.  It is the physical therapy that gives me a goal to work toward.  We'll see how that plays out.

In the meantime, I did get some sleep last night (didn't get any Saturday night); that helps with the recuperation.  Unfortunately, Joan hasn't been able to get her normal sleep, either.  She works hard to keep this household going while I can't do much.

One of us has been able to keep up with his normal sleepy-time...

He can sleep anywhere...

In that photo above, he is leaning his head on the metal legs of our dining chairs; doesn't look comfortable to me, but he seems OK with it.

--------------

All good at the doctor.  This was one of those "The doctor wants to see you again in 3 weeks" visits.  As near as I can tell, we could have done this over the phone.  But, we schlepped ourselves to Harlingen.  I think he was running out of blood things to test for, so had more blood drawn to check my cholesterol last time I was there.  Joan asked about it (she's always on top of things).  For the record, my cholesterol has always been low - what can I say, I process gravy the way most people process water.  It was 122.  So, I got that going for me.  ;-)

I hobbled around, using the cane and the walker today.  Other than this outing to the doctor, I was told (by the PT guy) no more walking outside until further notice.  I was doing good on the cane with distance and no pain.  Yeah, I'll get back there again.

Music pick me up...

This evening, Mark sent me a Spire Studio file we had recorded live when I was there in March - he added keyboard and marimba tracks.  I am likin' the marimba!  I added vocal, guitar, bass, and drum tracks.

It gave me something to concentrate on besides the pain in my hip.  A very good pick me up.

Here's the result, a cover of the Jimmy Buffett song Son of a Son of a Sailor...

https://soundcloud.com/captainjimb/son-of-a-son-of-a-sailor-t13

Two steps forward, one step back...

Moving forward, gaining numbers on the exercise reps.  Then, yesterday while doing the toughest exercises, I was on my last set... just one more side lift, and... something popped.  Stabbing pain.  No, I don't think the hip has dislocated; feels like one of those knots in the muscle got seriously pissed about that exercise!

It hurts to stand; hurts to sit... I was to the point where the pain was decreasing each day.  Yeah, it's back.  I didn't get much sleep last night, and moved slow this morning.  Then on to some "easy" exercising... it hurts, but no worse.

I think I will go easy today.

These boots are made for walkin'...

If you said, "Nancy Sinatra, 1966," you're getting a bit long in the tooth... but, you get 100 bonus points.

No, I am not wearing boots.  But, I do have some slip-on shoes that work OK for walking.  Well, the limited walking I am doing.  Yesterday, after walking to the corner and back, the PT guy released me to walk "whatever your hip can take - it will tell you when you are done.  Just be sure that you have planned for the distance, so you can get yourself back home."  Good thinking.

So, today, I doubled that distance.  About a whole block (we don't have city blocks on this island).  My hip told me I was done.  That hip can be a whiner.

I am progressing on the other exercises.  Stuff that I couldn't do a week ago is now doable.  The reclining leg lifts are still a bitch, but I am up to 15 reps on two of the three exercises; the goal is to get to 20 reps.

Always a new exercise gets introduced; I call this latest one "the karate kid"... nothing to do with "wax on, wax off," it is more like that bird-looking pose at the end of match... well, except I don't have both hands raised up... just one hand, while the other is there for support.  This exercise is all about putting full weight on the hip.

I am using the walker less and less; I think tonight I will have the cane beside the bed for those middle of the night visits to the commode.

I visited with my brother-in-law John today; gave him a "progress report."  Yep, progress.  He told me that since I had the surgery, his hip has started hurting.  "Don't be having sympathy pains for me - you don't want any of this."  ;-)  He asked about the pain... "I'm sure it is less, but I haven't hit that 'break even point' - if it hurts less, you work it more, which makes it hurt more."

Hot and humid in the Tropical Tip.  The weather weasels are using the "feels like" temperature... it's like "wind chill" that gets used up north: no bearing on the real temperature, just another number with the humidity considered so you can enjoy the misery.  ;-)  Fortunately, my outings are still short enough that I'm not a sweat-ball when I get back to the house.

Out on the scoot...

One of us is bull-headed, not mentioning names, but it’s not me. She said, “I’m going to take the scoot to get us a breakfast tortilla. Call Manuel’s and order it.”

Out the door she went. By the time I hobbled out the door and down the steps, she had the trailer opened, her scoot out and running! (I don’t move too fast.)

And, she was gone. She did come back, in about 20 minutes; with an oh-so-tasty Manuel’s tortilla. So big that we always split one.

She said, “I don’t want to make you feel bad, but that felt great!” (the ride)

No, I don’t feel bad. Well, I hurt, but my heart is happy.

The Vespa didn’t get an outing, but I ran it for a bit. It’s a start.

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The "back story" on this: Joan gets "valet service" with her scoot.  When we go out on them, I get hers out; when we get back, I put hers away.  There is "a way" they each go into and out of the trailer (our portable garage), and it takes a bit of muscle and finesse.  She showed me that she is certainly capable of getting her own scoot in and out.  Well, I never doubted that she could, I've been protective - didn't want her to get hurt muscling that scoot around.  Yeah, she's tough.

A new day...

I am playing by the rules: got up this morning and used the walker to get Rufus fed.  Joan came out to the kitchen to check on me... yep, I'm doing fine.  As part of getting back to our routine, she went back to bed... so Rufus could give her some snuggle time after his breakfast.

I switched to the cane and made her a cup of coffee, which I delivered to the bedroom.  May not seem like a big deal, but it was great to be able to carry that cup.  It makes my heart happy to see those two snuggled up... the furry boy gives good snuggles.

Then, back to the kitchen, where I got my own hot chocolate and ice water.  Again, a big deal - sure beats stuffing a water bottle in my waistband and shuffling back to my chair.  Or being totally dependent on Joan to bring me everything.  A long way to go but this is a refreshing start.

----------------

Speaking of refreshing, the big deal today was lunch out.  Not just drive to place and I wait in the car while Joan goes inside, but we actually went in together, sat down at a table, and had lunch.  Russo's Italian.  It was delicious!

That is a happy boy.  Seems like it has been since forever that we have had a lunch out.  In reality, it has been 3 weeks.  I know that because 3 weeks ago I was doing my pre-op at the hospital and we went to Chick-fil-a afterwards.  I was keeping the meal light because I knew I was going under the knife the next day.  Well, it was more like under the saw and chisel.  Maybe a ball peen hammer.  And a torque wrench.  Robo-Grips.  And a pry bar.

Truth be told, I don't remember a whole lot about those first 4 or 5 days.  The reality and the bad dreams blurred together.  My buddy, Earl, told me, "The first two weeks are going to suck."  Big ol' understatement.

A whole lot came together the past couple days to progress to "part time with the cane."  It was sooner than I expected.  I thought it would be: "Yes, you can now use a cane," and I would toss off the walker like Forest Gump ran out of his leg braces.  Nope.  I definitely am still using the walker when I get out of bed.  Or when I went to feed Rufus.  Getting in and out of the shower.  Not sure what the warranty is on this new hip, but I don't want to fall and mess it up.

People have been encouraging: "Now you can really go after it!"  Well, I kinda have been going after it; but with the cane, I have one hand free to carry it.  ;-)  After lunch today, I went after it... "it" being: a nap.  In the recliner. 

:-)

At the end of the line...

No, not at the end of my rope.  Making more music, this time going for something folksy.  Mark picked this Traveling Wilburys song; I thought the name of the song was "It's Alright."  Nope - At The End of the Line.  He sent me tracks with guitar and keyboard.  It was last week and I was feeling rough - it was a good pick-me-up, and I added bass and percussion (snare and tambourine) and a couple vocal tracks.  Back to Mark; he added more vocals and an organ track.

https://soundcloud.com/captainjimb/end-of-the-line-v21

For those not familiar with the Traveling Wilburys, it is a "super group" of some very famous musicians: George Harrison, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, Jeff Lynne, Bob Dylan, and Jim Keltner.  Yeah, my vocals don't sound like any of those guys... well, maybe more Dylan than Harrison.  ;-)  But, we're makin' music and havin' fun.

That's one small step for man...

... one giant leap for an old guy with a new hip.

I have been exercising those hip muscles.  Some of those exercises are grueling.  Apparently, things are beginning to pay off: today, after going outside with a cane with the PT guy, and showing that I can maneuver stairs, I have officially been released to "part time with the cane."  I will still need the walker when I first get up in the morning, getting out of bed at night, and when doing exercises.  Limited distances with the cane; and with the Blonde keeping an eye on me.

May not seem like a big deal, but it marks an important step (pun intended): with the cane, I will have one hand free - I could get my own glass of water.  Think about it: with two hands on a walker, you have no hands left to carry a cookie... or a soda... or to get my own damn iPad.  Or, carry a guitar.

One step forward from feeling so helpless.  After this session today, my hip is tired and sore... but I feel good.

Bump City...

It's from one of my favorite Tower of Power songs, Down to the Nightclub.

Last week, Mark said he wanted to try something with synthesizer horns, and I suggested this song.  On Saturday, I recorded guitar, bass, drums, and vocal tracks.  I just got Mark's electric piano, synthesizer keyboard, and horns tracks.  A quick mix and...

https://soundcloud.com/captainjimb/down-to-the-nightclub-v12

A fun song to record!

The fever...

During yesterday's PT session, there was some discussion of me being... cranky.

Moi?  Joan suggested it was an indication that I am getting better.  I thought it might be a case of cabin fever.  The PT guy said to Joan, "Maybe he will soon be ready for you to take him for a ride?"

I took that as: "I think he is saying we should go for a ride and have lunch out?"  Big ol' frown.  "OK, maybe go for a ride and stop at a drive through?"  A bit less of a frown.

Today is a new day.  I am leaving cranky behind and looking forward to an outing.  What?  NO, I was not inferring that "cranky" meant anyone particular - I mean leaving "my crankiness" to yesterday.

This afternoon, Joan suggested we drive over to the island, pick up some lunch, and come back home.  "Sounds good!"

There are thunderstorms in the Valley, west of us, moving this way.  Time to go so we can get back before the rain hits.  Driving across the causeway...

Nice change of scenery.  We had a plan for where to stop, but we both agreed that it would be best (for me) to not go inside to eat.  A picnic in the car or bring lunch back home?  With weather looming, we made the decision to get the food to go...

Joan is a great cook, but this outing was a change of food pace, and she didn't have to make lunch.  Win-win.  I tolerated the ride just fine, and truly enjoyed the change of scenery.

A couple laps of the island...

No, not in the boat.  Today was a new step forward in my physical therapy: I walked several laps of the island.  Without the walker.  Not the island we live on - pretty sure I couldn't walk much beyond the driveway.  This was an exercise to see how close I am getting to be cleared for using a cane - I walked around the island in our kitchen, using the countertop for support.  While the PT guy stood right beside me.

I asked if I was ready for the cane: "Not yet, but you are progressing."  He gave me some other (painful) exercises that, when I can do them without pain (or a minimum of pain), will be the indicator that I am ready for the cane.

He was less than enthralled that I have fed Rufus the last two days, concern about bending all the way to the floor.  I showed him how I was using the walker for support, kicking the left leg back to take any strain off the hip, and a careful reach.  In his German accent, he said, "Feeding cat not as important as protecting hip."

"Rufus would beg to differ."  ;-)

He encouraged me to not put emphasis on loosening the stiffness in my left leg: "That will come as the bruising and swelling in the muscles improves.  All in due time."

Now, regarding those laps around the island - not a great distance, but it felt great moving around without holding onto the walker.  Another step forward.

-----------

A few photos with my furry boy: sitting together in the chair...

Rufus providing security while I stretch out in the chair...

Sitting on the back of the chair, by my shoulders...

He's a good boy.  :-)

Like a new man...

No, I'm not miraculously healed.  After looking our shower over (no handicap rails in it), the original PT person said, "No using the shower until we clear you for that."  There hasn't been any discussion of it, and I have become quite efficient at sponge bathing (boat person, remember?)... this morning, Joan suggested we try the shower.  And, when I saw "we", I meant me.  She taped Saran Wrap over the incision (still not supposed to get it wet) and I slowly got in.  "Slowly" (which is how I do most things these days) because there is no way to lead with the right foot going in or coming out of the shower.

On the bright side, it felt great to let the warm water flow all over me.  While I was in the hospital, Joan got a shower seat and a hand wand for my shower stall - works great.

No other new physical moves today, but this one was a delightful change of pace.  The exercises continue and my range of motion is improving; still not able to "dead lift" my left leg while lying down.  Apparently, that is key to move on from the walker to a cane.

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Happy Mother's Day!  I was not able to get out to get a card for my lovely wife, but our daughter was thinking ahead and send cards from me and Rufus to give to Joan.  A bit of a payback from the days when the kid was small and Daddy gets something she can give to Mommy.

Before this surgery, we have had a morning routine: I get up and feed Rufus, he eats and goes back to bed to snuggle with Joan.  There has also been discussion that I should not be leaning over to the floor to pick up water and food bowls... this morning, I went for it.  While getting his food ready, I got the Rufus leg rubbing that I have missed.  He chowed down and headed for the bedroom.  With the walker, I can't carry anything, but I did get Joan's coffee ready to go... I just couldn't take it to her in bed.  She knew the thought was there and was happy to have her morning Rufus routine back.

Another small bit of normal back.

I got a call this morning...

It was my friend, Rusty, who had his hip done 3 days after me.  He is already walking without a walker or a cane!  We discussed a lot of stuff, but it mostly came down to "Where's your scar?" and "How did they close it up?"  Very different.  His is obviously a faster (much faster) recovery time.  Yes, I know: "Don't compare your hip and recovery with anyone else."  Hard not to with these very different recoveries.  He says his scar is just a few inches and in the front.  Mine is more like 12 to 13" and just behind what I would call the hip bone.  I understand, different surgical procedures for different situations.

No, I am not jealous - I am delighted for my friend, and it makes me want to work even harder to move my recovery along.  The PT guy says that I am doing the right amount of "push" and to not go further than that.  While yesterday (going to the doctor's office) left me worn out, I feel I am moving better today.  Last night was a mostly sleepless night, with some obvious med-induced issues, but I did get some sleep this morning.

I had a plan for today: lay down some music tracks.  That seems like it should be rather easy on the ol' bones, huh?  While in my music chair, I was doing leg exercises while recording.  Joan had to go to the store while I was in my recording mode, and I managed to switch around on different instruments and... play drums on a couple tracks.  Without help.  No completed songs, but I have sent my part on to Mark for his additions.  I'm anxious to see what he does with them.  In all, I put down 8 tracks today.  It felt good.

The house is full of good smells right now: Joan bought a pork roast while at the store.  That and a chocolate cake are making my nose happy.  I'm assuming the belly will be happy soon, too.  ;-)

Going with the house pet theme...

Joan is taking me for a ride today. Yep, in the car.  Hopefully, not to have me neutered.  Not like it would make a difference, but I would like to avoid any cutting for a while.

Yeah, I am kidding.  "The ride" is to go to the surgeon's office for my 2-week post-op check-up.  I cleaned up as normal today, but Joan brought out "grown up clothes" for this outing.  Not sure who we're trying to impress?  Maybe she is just tired of looking at me in a t-shirt?  So, I look like a grown up.  Well, a slow-moving, walker-using grown up.  I wonder if I'll get a treat while we're out?

I have no idea what the expectation is of this visit, just know that it is part of the procedure with this surgeon.  I will be seeing one of his PAs.  After the initial set-back and return to the hospital, I think things are progressing normally.  I am doing the PT routines as prescribed, resting, elevating, and icing.

Later.


--------------

The PT guy said this trip to the doctor is a big deal.  It was a car ride.  I have always found our CR-V to be quite comfortable.  In order to fold me up and put me in the car, the passenger seat had to be tilted way back.  I thought the crimp it put in my neck would be worse than the pain in the hip.  I was wrong.

Turns out the car ride was only the second most painful part of the outing today.  Putting me on the X-ray table and having the woman say, "Hold this position while I go to lunch, and then take a nap, before I take the photo," was the most painful.  Apparently, it order to see if the fake hip is properly placed, they have to put you in a painfully unproper position.  And then make bets around the office to see how long you can hold that before you pass out from the pain.  Third most painful part of the day was biting the inside of my cheek while trying not to cry like a little girl while the X-ray lady collected her winnings on my holding time.

Speaking of X-rays...

The young lady who looked at my X-ray and the incision said, "Everything looks OK."

"OK?  Just OK?"  I think I had that same conversation with the PT guy.  So, I am doing... OK?  I did challenge another guy in the hallway on a walker to "Wanna race 'em for pink slips?"  He was a lot taller than me, but I think I coulda taken him.  I was more aerodynamic: I lost 7 pounds since my last visit here... it may be my "working out," or it may be that titanium is lighter than bone (especially my heavy, dense bones).

We made it back to the car, back home, back up the front steps, and back into my "nest" (aka known as the lift chair).  I was exhausted.  Albert the PT guy was right: this outing was a big deal... based on how worn out it left me.  Joan did great with getting me there and back with a minimum of fuss; if she was worn out, it didn't show at all.

a nice change of pace...

I had a visitor today: my friend Leonard.  Leonard is a "sometimes" neighbor (they own a home here, but it is not their only home); circumstances have kept them away more than here, but it was a delght to see my friend again.  He is one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet, and we can go months or years without seeing each other, and pick right back up where we left off.

It was a mutual boating interest that brought us together as friends.  He is the guy who first told me about C-Dorys when discussing the Nimble Nomad he had at the time.  We have buddy boated with Leonard and Doris with small sailboats, traded off truck and trailer while cruising the Erie Canal (separately), and generally just understood and supported each other's boating passions.  He is a good guy.

Not a change of pace: more physical therapy today.  This shit still hurts.  Another friend, Merv, tells me that I may someday forget that if/when the hip is working normally.  He did not tell me this stuff ahead of time, so I am not sure I trust him.  The PT guy and I made a "test run" out to the car... I go back to the surgeon's office for my first post-op check-up.  It was good to know that I will be able to (with a bit of help) fold myself up enough to fit in the CR-V.  I am able to get more bending in the leg, by a couple degrees - improvement!  I am hoping the trip tomorrow will be an easy outing rather than a set-back.

In the "Oh, isn't that cute?" department: after the PT session and a late lunch (Joan made us Phillie sandwiches), Rufus and I took a nap together.  Apparently, we were both on our backs, both had our mouth hanging open, and furry belly showing.  Joan did not take a photo, but I hope I have described the cuteness enough to paint the mental image.

One last change of pace: this morning, I got to my Spire Studio equipment and recorded a vocal track to go with tracks Mark sent me earlier this week.  The vocal will probably be my only contribution to this song.  Mark will need to add a keyboard solo to it (he also did the guitar and bass parts), and then I'll post it here.

A sliding scale...

That seems to be a recurrent theme these days.  In the hospital, I was frequently asked to "rate the pain."  None of them are old enough to remember American Bandstand, so they didn't get the joke of "It has a good beat, but I didn't like the lyrics - I'd give it a 67."

"Rate it?  Like on Yelp?  Oh, that is some good pain, I would definitely get some of that pain again."

"No, wait!  I want to change my answer.  I had no idea the pain was going to hurt so much - I would not recommend this pain."

Nope, no sense of humor.

In the grand scheme of things, I have only had a half-dozen in-home Physical Therapy sessions.  These guys are good: they observe how I am doing and change up the exercises (for lack of a better word) to continue to expand my movements and flexibility.  If you "get good" at something, they change the routine... it's like they don't care about how good you do something, they always want more.  Yes, I am kinda joking - I know their goal is to get me back to full mobility.  I have some muscles that haven't seen "normal use" in quite a while, due to the hip issue.  Apparently, there are some bones in there that have been hacked away and replaced with other, non-bone stuff.

All this means there is pain to deal with.  How do you rate that?  Especially as the amount of pain comes and goes, generally dependent on the movement or pressure.  Apparently, some other people don't use that whole "1 to 10 scale"... I have figured out that if you rate the pain at 5 or less, they are compelled to push harder.  If you say the pain is "looking at 10 in the rear view mirror," they ease up.

Yeah, I'm kidding.  This pain shit hurts, and today's PT workout was the toughest yet.  I just know when I can make it through this without crying like a little girl, they're going to change the scale.  ;-)


------------

I got to visit with my buddy Mark this afternoon - talking music and just being friends.  Nice.  We'll have some more music tracks going back and forth when I can.


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And, my highlight for the afternoon: when Joan went to the store, my Rufus boy came to sit by me...

He is still being very gentle around me... and considering his size, I am appreciative.

In my own defense: I was left unsupervised...

No, nothing bad happened, I just like that title.  Joan did get out of the house a couple times, while Rufus and I held down the home front.  Another day, more of the same.  And by "more," I mean I did more PT exercises on my own today.  I can tell I pushed, because the leg is stiff and sore.

My big step for the day was getting cleaned up and ready for the day with no help.  OK, maybe not a "big" step, but a step.  I'm still not fixing any food for myself, but that is because I need both hands for the walker - one of those car window trays that Sonic uses is gonna be a bit rickety hanging off that walker.

My buddy Mark sent me another set of music tracks today, but it may be a day or two before I can get the recording situation set back up... it will come with time.  I did, however, sing along with his keyboard and guitar tracks (good practice for me).

I mentioned above about "Rufus and I"... in my current state, I am more like a house pet.  Well, a big ol' house pet that generates laundry and more concern.  Rufus is treating me different; Joan thinks it is the powered chair (bed, nest??) that he isn't sure about.  I am seeing him no longer considering me the "alpha male"... I am a bit concerned that he is making his hierarchy move.  This evening, he is sitting by Joan on the couch while I am on other side of the room by myself.  At this point, I have no doubt that he is less effort to care for than I am.  I'm not paranoid, but I have to up my game.

One step at a time...

Just finished the in-home physical therapy for today.  It feels like it should all be happening faster, but the physical therapist said, "It will take however much time it takes."  And probably some other philosophical stuff.  He showed me new exercises and had me walk about 3 times further than I have gone to date.  There is more "upright work": marching in place, sideways leg lifts (who knew that would hurt WAY more when lifting the good leg??), easy squats, etc, etc.

Truly, I see significant improvement in the past week.  "Significant" is a relative term - it will definitely be a while before I am moving at even my gimpy ol' pre-surgery pace.  It wouldn't hurt my feelings if the pain would lessen.  Get it?  Wouldn't hurt my feelings?

Who says you can't have a sense of humor about this situation?

His last missive to me: "Do not compare your progress with that of anyone else - everyone has their own pace.  Your job is to continue to improve."  Then, he told me about his particular recovery from knee replacement surgery last year... but, I ignored him.

;-)

I think that's funny.  May be the meds.  😂

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Joan just got back from picking up mail.  Our mail boxes are in an Owners Activity Center building.  This is not a retirement village, but there are plenty of people our age and older who live here.  You tend to see people as you come and go to get your mail.  Joan said, "It was 'Cane & Walker Central' out there today: everyone seemed to be using some sort of mobility appliance."

I think it is like when you buy a car - you then notice that same kind of car everywhere, where you didn't see them before.  She has been around me and my walker.  A lot.

Day to day...

A week in now.  Well, a week and a day.  We're still trying to find our routine.  This morning, we tried doing the physical therapy "routine" before cleaning up.  Sleep and getting rest is still a challenge.  I have never been a "back sleeper," and there is no way to get me on to my side (and get sleep) at this point.  Oh, I can be "rolled" onto my side and propped in place with pillows, but there would be no sleeping like that.

I have been advised to stay hydrated (helps with the ever-present constipation)... which means I have to pee all the time.  Which means Joan is awake, as she will not let me move around on my own.  I still can't get in and out of bed on my own at this point.  So, while every move is a challenge to me at this point, Joan is affected by it, too... if I am up, she is up.  She may not be dealing with the pain, but the care-giver job doesn't come with regular breaks or scheduled time off.  I worry that my situation is wearing her out.

One of the side effects of the pain meds is lack of appetite.  Today, I am trying extending the time between doses by adding Tylenol.  So far, it doesn't feel much different from the "heavy" pain meds.  When Joan asked what I wanted for lunch today, I had an opinion: "Some kinda of pasta."  She made a great penne pasta with red sauce and fresh baked bread bites - it really was a delight!

Another change in routine today: I wanted to try taking an "on my back" nap in the bed today.  Apparently, it worked OK, because Joan took this photo of Rufus and I sharing nap time...

Besides capturing a photo while Rufus and I sleep through it, Joan makes sure we are all fed and cared for.  Clean up needs attended to.  I feel bad that I can't take care of her right now.

She also put me through the PT routines today; she has each exercise written down, with the moves and the reps.  I know she worries about hurting me vs doing enough that there is improvement.  Right now, the biggest issue I have with the PT routines is each additional "stretch" causes pain, and when I come back to repeating that exercise, it is like starting from scratch again.  I am aware of the saying, "No pain, no gain"... what I seem to be dealing with is "Pain, lose any gain."

We keep pressing on.

-----------------------

Vocabulary:

This experience has broadened my vocabulary - I've become personally familiar with words like: constipated.  Stool softener.  Laxative.  Prune juice.

Stephanie asked me about prune juice.  Seems she has never had prune juice.  And for the record, I had never had prune juice until this week.  Prune juice is one of those schtick words from a comedy bit.  You say it and people chuckle.

Steph asked me what it tastes like.  I said, "It tastes like a liquid form of what you hope will appear after drinking prune juice."

She was grossed out by that.  Go figure.

Therapy...

Joan and I have discussed this: how could anyone with a full-time job work while recuperating from something like this hip replacement - the amount of time it takes for every little task is overwhelming.  I am fortunate that Joan signed on for that whole "better or worse" thing, but she keeps reminding me that "her turn will come."

It has only been one week since that early morning check-in at the hospital.  Then what felt like a never-ending wait for my turn in the OR.

So, one week into this, we are still learning what to expect; certainly not into a routine.  During my clean-up time this morning (there is no "quick jump into the shower"), every move has to be planned because of the "fall risk."  We are still trying to time and regulate blood pressure and pain meds.  With only 2 in-home PT visits, I am trying to work on "routines" to do enough without doing too much; learning how much activity will leave me too sore for the next go 'round; trying to push and stretch just a bit more.

Joan took a photo of this activity:

Nothing like a big furry kitty tucked in to help relax.  We know that Rufus's routine has been turned all around, too.  He doesn't jump up on my lap - thankfully, he waits for Joan to carefully set him there.  The chair he and I have sat in since he first came home with us has been replaced by an electric lift chair - it looks and sounds different, and Joan is keeping a sheet on it, since it has become my place of comfort.

Therapy is more than just moving stuff - sometimes, it is the rest in between that we all need.

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Today's PT went well; more things introduced into the routine.  Yeah, this really is like a full-time job.  Albert (the PT) said he could see improvement, even from yesterday.  When it was done, there was a bit of discussion about "motivation"... "I can't wait to get back on a scooter.  The doctor is saying that I won't be released to ride, regardless of how this all goes.  I guess I will have to fire him."

He said, "It is important that you participate in your own healing."

He also commented about Rufus: "That is a big cat."

"He has been very careful around me since all of this started."

After a bit of a break, I asked Joan to bring me my X7...

May still be the pain meds, but I am having difficulty staying with one task, and focusing.

-------

I did hear from Mark this afternoon; he has been working on some new tracks.  We'll see if I can focus to learn something new... and I may have to make some adjustments to any drumming technique.

It's Still Rock 'n Roll to Me...

I had laid down some tracks for that Billy Joel song before I went in for surgery, figuring I probably wouldn't be up to doing any recording for a while.  My buddy and music partner Mark sent back his tracks on the song, and today was the first I felt I could put the effort into downloading and mixing it... truth is, I didn't have to do any mixing: just loaded Mark's tracks into the Spire Studio app and here's the results...

https://soundcloud.com/captainjimb/its-still-rock-n-roll-to-me-v2-1

It was fun looking back; been a tough week.  Hope you enjoy the music - it was just the boost I needed today.

Not as comfortable as mixing in the guitar room, but it's what I have...

Day 5...

I have lost track of some of the days; or I remember bits of them... and certainly don't remember some parts.

Yesterday, I established a working relationship with the physical therapist.  Thank goodness for these traveling workers.  This guy painted no pretty images of "you'll do fine" or laid out any unrealistic "schedules."  The main thing he said that stuck with me was: "The first two weeks, the plan is to survive.  After that, you should be beyond the shock of the pain and limitations, and we'll start working on a best way to proceed."

The blocked up stomach and constipation is worse than I could have expected.  The swelling on the leg is more than I expected.  The limitations of movement and being able to reach things is worse than I expected.  I admit, I expected to be outside, moving with the walker... nope - any getting around away from the house is off-limits for the next couple weeks.  Right now, it is "move 'till it hurts, then rest and ice.  One lap of the inside of the house might be therapeutic, more than one lap may be harmful.

Some of the things we bought for access (like the toilet riser) are more of a hindrance than a help in actual use.  Every movement takes longer with more concern about stability.  Seriously, you have to be concerned about falling off a toilet?  Any modesty is gone.  A successful bathroom excursion means you didn't piss on yourself in some manner.  The chance for one hour of painfree rest is a lofty, unachievable as yet, goal.