So ... all that griping I did about being trapped at home (before I got released to drive), I got approval to drive on Monday ... and my car still hasn't moved - LOL!
It's not that I'm worried about driving, I just realized everything I actually NEED (drug store, post office, library, etc.) is all within 20 blocks (albeit different directions)- and I haven't REALLY been trapped because I've been walking there.
Funny how when you *can't* do something (or are *told* you can't) it drives you nuts ... and a funny correllation I've discovered ... I spend a whole lot less when I'm NOT driving ... BONUS! ;-)
We get about 10 GREAT days of weather in Houston a year, and today is definitely one! 75° and sunny ... light breeze (almost unheard of).
I had prescriptions from my 3 weeks post op visit to get filled, I needed Mederma (my incision is ready for it now), and I missed the mail this morning and needed to go by the post office for stamps and to send some things.
I got dressed ("dressed" these days consists of yoga pants or shorts/tank top and tennies), and almost grabbed my keys for the maiden voyage in the car. I looked outside and realized how silly driving a mile and half would be on a day like this.
Yeah, I just got in from my trek, a bit tired - and tight through the lumbar area (it gets better with periodic stops to stretch my hamstrings) - but I made it. A MILE and a 1/2!!
I feel SO much better since I started walking. It's funny, even my regular stride (I take loooong steps, and normally walk fast) has come back. The worst part of the whole adventure was when I sat for a few minutes in the drug store waiting (I loosened back up when I got up and browsed the aisles).
23 days post op and walking 1.5 miles at an almost regular pace - yay! It certainly wasn't what I expected to be doing this far out ;-)
For any of you awaiting surgery, I just can't stress how much more quickly "normal" returns with activity - and walking is perfect! Check with your doctor, of course, and definitely take it slow at first: Be sure to listen to your body. Add a little more each time and you'll start feeling like yourself before you know it ;-).
Although I certainly wish my life had never been touched by scoliosis at all, I don't regret my decision to have surgery, not my choice of surgeon. (and of COURSE I put the pinch on him for a walk donation - LOL!).
Regards to all,
Pam
It's not that I'm worried about driving, I just realized everything I actually NEED (drug store, post office, library, etc.) is all within 20 blocks (albeit different directions)- and I haven't REALLY been trapped because I've been walking there.
Funny how when you *can't* do something (or are *told* you can't) it drives you nuts ... and a funny correllation I've discovered ... I spend a whole lot less when I'm NOT driving ... BONUS! ;-)
We get about 10 GREAT days of weather in Houston a year, and today is definitely one! 75° and sunny ... light breeze (almost unheard of).
I had prescriptions from my 3 weeks post op visit to get filled, I needed Mederma (my incision is ready for it now), and I missed the mail this morning and needed to go by the post office for stamps and to send some things.
I got dressed ("dressed" these days consists of yoga pants or shorts/tank top and tennies), and almost grabbed my keys for the maiden voyage in the car. I looked outside and realized how silly driving a mile and half would be on a day like this.
Yeah, I just got in from my trek, a bit tired - and tight through the lumbar area (it gets better with periodic stops to stretch my hamstrings) - but I made it. A MILE and a 1/2!!
I feel SO much better since I started walking. It's funny, even my regular stride (I take loooong steps, and normally walk fast) has come back. The worst part of the whole adventure was when I sat for a few minutes in the drug store waiting (I loosened back up when I got up and browsed the aisles).
23 days post op and walking 1.5 miles at an almost regular pace - yay! It certainly wasn't what I expected to be doing this far out ;-)
For any of you awaiting surgery, I just can't stress how much more quickly "normal" returns with activity - and walking is perfect! Check with your doctor, of course, and definitely take it slow at first: Be sure to listen to your body. Add a little more each time and you'll start feeling like yourself before you know it ;-).
Although I certainly wish my life had never been touched by scoliosis at all, I don't regret my decision to have surgery, not my choice of surgeon. (and of COURSE I put the pinch on him for a walk donation - LOL!).
Regards to all,
Pam
Comment