Cabin Fever

In the last two weeks not much has changed medically. I'm now totally drainless and enjoying showering without having to hook tubes onto the shower curtain. I had a minor setback with some fluid collection under my arm, but good news/bad news, it found it's own way out, and the little hole in my skin it created is healing fine. It was less than a centimeter right at the edge of my incision and other than seriously freaking me out, it caused no damage. It was probably a good thing, because I'm sure I was doing too much and it reminded me to take a breath and slow down.

I've been able to drive again now that I'm off the Percocet. Withdrawl was a beast -- amusing since I'd only been on narcotics for two and a half weeks, but annoying when I got the creepy crawlies and couldn't sleep. It lasted about a week, and thank goodness is over now. I've switched to one Advil every 14 hours or so, and anticipate being totally off of any pain killers within the next two weeks.

Eric's mom has been ultra fabulous watching the kids since despite my energy levels being on the climb, I still can't pick them up or do many of the required "Mommy" tasks. So, since I'm totally alone all day, I'm starting to go more than a little crazy staring at my house. Eric and I are currently in the process of looking for a new car for me since my beloved Volvo that I've had for 7 years is truly on it's last legs. Doing research on another car has been taking a little of my time. I've also done a little bit of gardening (just planting some tiny annuals, nothing major), weeding, and painting (on canvas this time, not the house... though that might come soon). However, I think all of that is a short term solution to my cabin fever, and I'm practically aching to get back to work.

I actually just called my Mayo doc to see when I'd be released to school. My hope is she'll allow me to return just after Memorial Day so I still have a couple of weeks to rest (ha), but I also have enough time to say good bye to my 8th graders. Apparently they miss me and have sent notes my way. I miss the hustle and bustle and the mental stimulation -- probably since this is the third block of time I've missed this year it's more draining.

We spent last weekend in Milwaukee at my parents' house -- Mom and Dad had gotten Eric Cardinals tickets for his birthday, and as he said it, the game just happened to be played at Miller Park. Not such a good series for the Cards -- they lost the game, but Eric and Dad and Kile had a good time. The trip was fine for me -- we returned a car so I drove myself there, and even the four hour drive with Cavanaugh didn't wear me out too much. Of course, it was awesome to be able to sleep in knowing my parents would get the kids! I also got to look at wedding stuff with Cara and her ultra fab event coordinator. ALMOST makes me want to plan a wedding again. At least that would burn some energy!

That's pretty much the update! Thank you for all of the cards, emails and notes! The walk to the mailbox is one of the more exciting events of my day!

Carpe diem. -- Trela