December 14, 2015

Day by Day

"So day by day, I will move on

Can't stop now, it's been too long

Day by Day, I will grow stronger

Strides I take, they will grow longer

Day by Day, step by step,

Live my life, no regrets

Day by day, I will keep movin' on, day by day"

- Day by Day, Dirty Heads


This Friday marks the 12-week mark after surgery. Recovery has been slow and frustrating, but I feel I'm in the home stretch now. I've made great strides the past couple weeks. My walking is improving, I moved back upstairs, I can wear two shoes, and I even started driving with only the right foot. I was released from the boot at 10 weeks. An ankle brace was the next step; however, if I wear it all the time, it will restrict my range of motion. Which seems counter-intuitive, the doctor was in agreement that it is best to improve range and gain strength. If I walk on uneven surfaces, in crowds or long distances I'll lace up. The rest of the time I want to put my foot and ankle to work to get all those parts moving in unison as they should. I still have a lot of work to do, but I've definitely turned a corner. I'm feeling more like myself everyday. I've not been able to walk four of the past seven months, the remaining three have been a struggle. It has really taken a toll on me, but I feel like a return to normalcy is near.

Getting out and about is great for lifting my spirits. We've had a couple meals out (Joe's and Sage - Yum!), enjoyed time with friends... even solo trips to Sam's Club feel liberating. Our Thanksgiving was quiet, but nice. We we were only a small group this year so we simplified the menu for ease. Frank went to Chicago. So, it was just Mike, Amy & Jeff, the kids and me. My double oven has been wonky since we moved in, but with the help of a infared thermometer gun - dinner was a success. I never would've thought Frank's impulse buy would be so useful, but I rely on it often. I roasted the turkey, and made sausage stuffing and cornbread casserole. Amy whipped up mashed potatoes, gravy and green bean casserole. We had pumpkin and apple pie for dessert.

When Frank returned home, we celebrated his birthday at Sage. Then, a few days later, Bob and Hugh came for a quick visit. We took them to Mariscos Playa Escondido for dinner. It remains my favorite restaurant and it never disappoints. We also spent sometime downtown bar hopping on East Fremont and we did a little gambling at El Cortez. We found two gems at the Container Park. First, Oak & Ivy has fantastic craft cocktails. I was a big fan of the Whiskey Smash... typically, I don't like whiskey so this was a feat. Second, we stumbled on Jinju Chocolates. This petite chocolate shop is hand crafting the most delectable treats. And they have free samples!



We spent an evening at Gameworks, and then went to see Absinthe at Caesars Palace. Frank and I saw the show about a year ago, but I was still excited to see it again. I love that it is a variety show offering the best of everything. A couple acts have changed, but overall it is still highly entertaining and full of non-stop laughs. They do offer a local's discount too.

I cannot believe Christmas eve is 10 days away. The holiday will be bittersweet. Christmas was my mom's favorite by far, so it stings a bit that she will not be with us this year. Especially since Amy, Mike and I will be together; A first since 2002. It's been fun to see the joy of Christmas through Addy and Nick's eyes. Addison redecorates my tree daily and 'ooohs and ahhhs' every time I light it. Nick tracks Magico's (Elf on the Shelf) every move and anticipates his chocolate treat from his advent calendar. Even I'm excited for Christmas morning. My dad will be visiting for the holidays. He arrives tomorrow and he'll stay through the new year. We're all excited to visit with him.

The days of 2015 are winding down. I'm very much looking forward to the new year. The last two have been my most difficult. I'm ready to put them behind me, and hope the best is yet to be.

2 comments:

KathyinNY said...

Sending holiday wishes to you and yours.
I was so excited about Christmas (my favorite holiday by far) and then my husband's family has to make a big drama about dinner. My husband and I are looking forward to the day when we head south for the winter and don't have to worry about what the bleep is for Xmas dinner. Be happy you all are together. It makes me sad at times but I try to stay positive.
I am also happy to hear that you are on the mend with after your surgery. God bless you!

Kellee said...

Happy holidays to you as well. I hope they are as drama-free as possible.