Day 42 - Post Surgery (6 days in shoes)

So I bet everyone's been wondering what the heck happened to me and if they'd ever hear a word again now that I'm FREE?! Well, I've been really disappointed with my progress, or lack of, since I got my shoes back. First of all, I could only fit in lace up shoes of which I have tennis shoes and one pair of brown casual shoes. Nothing else fits and/or is comfortable enough to wear. Either they are too narrow, too high heeled or slip ons - none of which I can wear yet.

Last Wednesday I wore my tennis shoes and Thursday I wore my brown lace up shoes. Friday I worked from home, mostly in sock feet. I found no real noticable improvement walking over the past week. In fact, definitely more periods of stiffness, which can make me walk even slower than the slow grandma walk I'm already doing. I was beginning to wonder how in the world I was ever going to be able to chaperone an out-of-state trip the first weekend in January, like I was all signed up to do? Needless to say, I never made it into the actual gym. I'm pretty sure the treadmill won't even go slow enough for me right now - LOL!

So, over the weekend we went in search of another pair of shoes. Black and a little more dressy that I could wear with casual clothes and my more dressy work clothes that I have to wear again starting in January (December is casual month). The best solution I found were a pair of black Dansko shoes. These turned out to be very comfortable shoes. I highly recommend them! Wider in the front of the foot. Nice with jeans and will work with dress pants.

Today, was my best day of the week so far. Not just because I took a 1/2 day off and ran several errands, but because I also drove the most I have driven in 6 weeks, stood the most I've stood, and generally moved about more than ever and feel pretty good.

I also ended my day with my first PT appointment. I think this PT decision is going to be the best decision that is going to change everything for me and get me capable of the walking I need to do the first weekend in January. I found out I've been doing a couple of things wrong. First I have not ever iced my feet correctly. They told me I need to ice to the point of my feet actually feelng numb from the cold. That is the point where the ice actually impacts the swelling. I've also not taken Ibuprofin "correctly". I've taken a couple at night and occasionally in the morning or during the day. The PT says taking it that way does not impact the swelling, just the pain. I am suppose to take one every 4 hours or two every 8 hours, consistently, to positively impact the swelling.

I was also taught a couple of exercises and how to correctly "pin and stretch" my scar tissue to get it loosened up. Here's a copy of my Exercise Program and the rest of the notes from today's session:

One of the exercises is to grab a towel with my toes and pull it towards me with just my toes. The other exercise is a weight shifting exercise where I do a rocking motion with my feet, concentrating on pushing-off with my back foot. This is the one that is going to make a huge difference. This is why I am having trouble walking. My feet are so stiff in this position that I can't walk correctly. While I am practicing the exercise all my toes and the top of my foot is cracking and popping constantly from not having been moved in the last 6 weeks.

I was also taught the "pin and stretch" for scar mobilization. This is where you press your finger down on the scar and use another finger to press against the scar pushing it away from the finger pressing down. This is suppose to stretch out the scar tissue.

They also gave me some special things they made for me to wear on my scars at night. They kind of look like silly putty, but are stiff. They molded them to my scars and then they slightly harden so they don't change shape anymore, but are still soft. I am suppose to wear these under socks or the compression bandage every night at bedtime. These are suppose to completely get rid of the raised scar and loosen the scar tissue. Not sure how exactly this works. She says it will likely be uncomfortable at first and I may not be able to wear them more than an hour or two at first. I can't imagine this, but I will let you know how it goes. Here's what they look like:

The last update I have for the night is on the incision/scar area itself. One of my errands today was my semi-annual dermatologist appointment. I showed my doctor my scars and asked if I should use Vitamin E or what? She said there is no proof to indicate that does anything more than the petroleum jelly I'm using right now. She said the scars look great and I should just keep using the petroleum jelly. So, now we know!

Here's today's feet pictures. Other than the swelling, the are really healing nicely!

Day 36 - Post Surgery (Tennis Shoes Day)

Woohoo! Tennis shoes day has finally come. Almost as exciting as surgery day and stitches out day! :)

This is my three day at work week. I got Monday in and planned to be at the office Wednesday and Thursday, then work from home on Friday. Next week I will be back in the office all week.

So this morning I packed my tennis shoes in my bag and got to my appointment shortly after 8 AM. I already knew the shoes I was bring with me fit because I had tried them on Sunday.

When I got into the office they told me they were going to take another set of x-rays. So we did another three views of each foot and I waited in the office for the doctor. While I was waiting I started looking through the old photos on my phone and noticed that my feet were actually more swollen today that they were the day I had my stitches out. Hmm?!

The doctor showed up and was quite happy. He had already reviewed my x-rays in the hall and said he was very proud of his work on my feet. He took a look at my feet and told me how great they look. I expressed concern about the swelling and he said that feet are at the lowest point in my body's food chain and that swelling can be expected for quite some time yet, even up to one full year if I overdo it or wear the wrong shoes. We discuss stuff for the incisions and he recommended Vitamin E. He said that I should be rubbing on the incision site each time I apply something on the incision to help loosen the scar tissue. He also asked if I wanted a referral to a physical therapist to make a couple of visits. I told him I thought this was a good idea. I will make that appointment in the next day or so. He told me I was free to do whatever I was comfortable with and to just listen to my feet. He said I couldn't hurt them anymore, but they could hurt me. :) I have another follow up appointment in two months. I didn't realize there'd be another appointment, I thought I was done after this one. He probably just likes my smile and wants to see me again! HAHA!!

Anyway, I walked out of the doctor's office in my tennis shoes. It had been 5 weeks since I had shoes on. Wow. A littlie unconfortable for sure and had to open the laces nice and wide. But they work and it's a lot easier to get around in those than the boots.

My husband took me to work, because I didn't want to try driving yet and I put my feet up under my desk all day. I ended getting up from my desk a few extra times and standed to talk to coworkers a couple of times, and my feet got sore enough that I had to go sit down.

In the afternoon we closed down a couple of hours early for a work party, where I stood awhile and then sat in a chair with my feet on the floor for an hour. I finally had to get another chair to put my feet up on. The party was over at 4 PM and a friend dropped me at my house. I was EXHAUSTED and litterally laid on the couch and fell asleep. I slept until my husband woke me at 5 PM for supper.

After supper I decided I needed to try driving to see if I could plan on driving myself to work tomorrow. Strangely enough, my feet didn't bother me at all driving. I felt akward, just because it'd been so long since I've driven, but no issues at all with the feet. Yahoo - I'm free!!!

So, tomorrow I am driving myself to work. Next week I'm going to hit the gym and see what I can do on a treadmill - LOL! More to come...

Day 33 - Post Surgery ( 3 days to Tennis Shoes)

Walking more every day, trying to prepare for life on my feet in tennis shoes this coming week.

I worked two full days in the office last week. No significant problems as I kept my feet up on my "crate ottoman" both days and minimized the number of times I got up from my desk as much as possible.

I have been walking sock footed almost all day when I am in the house, concentrating on tryng to walk "normal", which isn't quite possible yet and less possible the more I've been on my feet. I am really good at going up the stairs. Going down, not so much. Starting to practice coming down more normally in socks this week. Since I'm really not sure I'm even supposed to be doing this yet, I am being careful not to overdo it. :)

Yesterday I walked the dog all the way to the end of the block and back up the other side. The fresh air was wonderful and I really felt great. Callie loved it, too! It helped that I spent most of the day before and after the walk with my feet up. :) Success none-the less! I also tried on my right tennis shoe the other day, just to see how it would feel and fit. My right foot has been substantially less sore and swollen than my left. I opened the laces all the way and slipped my socked foot in the shoe. Um, not very comfortable. Kind of hurt to bend my foot to get it in and seemed awfully tight. I slipped it off pretty quickly and didn't even think about trying on the left shoe yet.

Today, I decided that I really needed to get both shoes on and just make sure they fit, since I'm suppose to be able to wear them out of the doctor's office this Wednesday already! I opened up the laces nice and wide and slipped my right foot in. Not too horrible. Now the left foot. The swollen foot. The very slow to heal incision foot. Opened the laces really wide and gingerly slipped my foot into the shoe. Hmmm? Tight and slightly uncomfortable, but they were on. Wore them from my bedroom, down the stairs and into the kitchen. Kept them on walking around the house for a little bit, even wondered if I should dare to wear them to the store? Decided that was just too crazy to consider and threw my boots on. Big, clumsy, loose, comfortable and SAFE boots. :) Tennis shoes will come soon enough.

This week I will be working three full days at work, next week back to full time at my desk. On Wedneday, my last post op appointment is at 8 AM and I was told to bring my tennis shoes. I will be working at my desk all day that day, so it will be VERY interesting to spend my first full day in tennis shoes at work. I won't lie, I'm a little worried how that's going to go. We have a departmental Holiday party that afternoon - I sure hope they have plenty of places for me to sit and put my feet up!

Check back Wednesday night and I'll let you now how it all went!

Day 29 - Post Surgery (1st full day at work)

I spent the first couple of days working from home again this week. I was so busy on Tuesday, I never got my boots off to ice my feet all day. Luckily I kept them elevated on the couch and never really noticed the difference.

I am starting to walk a little more and stand a little more each day, trying strike that balance between building up strength/energy and not overdoing. I had planned to work in the office two full days this week, three full days next week, then full time back in the office the following week, slowly working my way back.

So, today was my first full day at work. Everything went better than I expected. Had I taken some Ibuprofin in the morning like I'd planned, but forgot about, I wouldn't have had any discomfort at all. About 11 AM my feet were feeling a little sore - probably from the extra walking (to get into the building/to my desk and back and forth to the restroom/break area for water) - and I realized that I still had my vitamin and Ibuprofin in my pocket from the morning! Took those and had no discomfort the rest of the day. My feet are still up at work, which I'm guessing I'll be doing for awhile yet, until the swelling is completely gone. Other than being a little more tired than usual, my feet don't seem more sore or swollen at all.

I am also proud to say I haven't had any additional feet misshaps since the weekend - boy I hope I didn't just jinx myself by putting that in writing! Not much longer and I will be enjoying long walks with the dog, driving and even all the normal day-to day activities I'm used to like shopping, cooking and even cleaning!

COUNT DOWN TO TENNIS SHOES = 6 MORE DAYS!

Day 26 - Post Surgery

I am coming up on four weeks post surgery this coming Tuesday. Seems like not as much changing every day anymore.

Made it through another 1/2 day of work on Friday. Work hasn't turned out to be much of an issue while I am sitting at my desk. Arranged the perfect little moving crate thing on wheels under my legs that slides in and out with my chair so I can comfortably reach my keyboard and my legs stay elevated. The only problem is that I have to take my boots off at my desk, otherwise my legs are too uncomfortable. So, everytime I need to get up from my desk I have to put both boots on, then take them off when I get back to my desk. I am also a little more tired on working days, due to the extra walking. Next week I plan to work two full days and three full days the following week. My feet are definitely not as swollen and sore as they were last week, perhaps because I've tried to get them elevated above my heart 1-2 times each day now?

I have started walking around the house a little more just in my sock feet, instead of wearing my boots. I am pretty cautious depending on who's around me and what they are doing...especially if the boys/husband are screwing around I really keep my distance. Unfortunately, I can't protect myself from ME!

Yesterday morning I actually dropped the remote control on my left foot -- right on the bone where the incision was. That had me doing some pretty good swearing under my breath! Then this morning, I was rushing around before church in sock feet, even going up/down the stairs and on one of the times up I stubbed by left big toe into the stairs! Are you kidding me?! My left foot again. That darn thing can't catch a break. This time no swearing....just tears to my eyes. STUPID me. I really need to SLOW down when I don't have my boots on. Clearly I am feeling better every day and it's getting easier to forget that my feet are still tender.

Here's today's pictures. The first is a before and the second is after at almost four weeks. You can see they're still pretty puffy/swollen, but definitiely going to be nice and straight when the swelling is gone!

Here's a photo of my incisions. The right foot is definitely further along. The left foot towards the bottom of the incision is still pretty sore. I think from the increased swelling, this foot it is taking longer to heal.

Looking at the calendar I realize I am now 10 just days to tennis shoes and driving, so life is good!

Day 22 - Post Surgery (First 1/2 Day Back to Work)

Yesterday I concentrated on saving my feet for the impending day at work today. I made sure I did not overdo the standing/walking and kept up on the elevation and ice. I even picked out my clothes last night and got to sleep at a decent time.

I woke up at normal time for my workout and was dropped off at my office door at 7:20 AM. I had pre-arranged for a plastic moving crate to be placed under my desk yesterday so I had something sturdy to rest my feet on. I had also planned which door to enter of my building that was closest to the elevator and the break area so I could get my morning water filled before I went to my desk.

All in all everything worked out well. I worked from 7:30 AM to noon at my desk, and the rest of the day on my couch. I have to say it took about 1/2 the morning for me to figure out how to get my feet and chair positioned comfortably. I found out that I had to take my boots off, because my knees were locking out without a pillow to cushion the underside of my legs. I am going to bring in a pillow to keep at my desk this Friday, which should really help. Once I was in my socks I put my feet on my coat for a cushion and finally was able to get comfortable enough not to think about my feet or legs!

I have a photo of me in my boots, before I slipped them off:

I am still struggling with quite a bit of swelling and soreness, more in my left foot than the right. Here's a photo of my sock feet tonight. I think you can see the swelling where my bunions USED to be....these should eventually be almost completely flat...when the swelling is gone, that is.

Tomorrow is another day of work from the couch for me.

PS - check out the new FB page to connect with others at Bunion Surgery Recovery - Chats, Q&A's, and Connection:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/pages/Bunion-Surgery-Recovery-Chats-QAs-and-Connection/266239080090146

Day 20 - Post Surgery 19 Days

How exciting is that? I am 19 DAYS POST SURGERY! Just 2-1/2 weeks to tennis shoes. I might need to start counting down the days in the title instead of counting up! :)

Yesterday we slept in, still making up for missing sleep from our midnight black Friday shopping. Had a nice breakfast and started in on all the indoor decorations. My husband has been back to being a good helper, which I really appreciate. :)

All the boxes were brought up and I started with instructions on the order: first the tree branches, then the lights, then the garland and last all the ornaments. Our youngest was home to assist dad with the application of ornaments. I pretty much sat on the couch with my feet up, provided as little direction as I could stand and passed them the ornaments to hang. Afterwards I began my room-to-room swap of regular items on the mantel, table top, etc. for the traditional lit garland, stockings, candles and santas. This is the part I had to do myself, finding just the right spot for everything.

We also went to meet with our small group for a couple of hours where I was able to keep my feet up on the stools in the kitchen or on the couch in the living room. Boy did it feel nice to get out of the house for a couple of hours!

This morning I was back at my workout, after having taken the last few days off since Thanksgiving. Felt good to strain and sweat a little. Showered, ate my bowl of cereal and got to work. Had over 100 emails after being out on Friday. YIKES! Didn't anyone else take off?!

Tonight I made dinner, homemade turkey noodle soup, and fresh baked bread. I'm pretty ok with standing 15-20 minutes at a time a few times a day, but when I do this I make sure I also keep my feet up and ice enough the rest of the day.

The last accomplishment tonight was running to two stores to pick up a couple more Christmas presents. They both had wheel chairs, so at least I didn't have much walking and we were home in an hour, so not the three hour excursion I had the other day.

All in all, another successful day in my book!

Day 18 - Post Surgery

Today is Saturday, which would traditionally be the day I make up a dinner menu for the week and get the grocery shopping done, but I won't be shopping anytime soon yet, so I have to rely on my husband. He typically "signs up" for a couple of the week night meals and tells me what he wants to make. I typically look in the freezer to see what I have left in there and make my meals around what is currently in the freezer first, then based on the weather and our activities each week. Can you tell I am an organizational freak?! Guess that's why I love my job as a project manager so much - LOL!

So this is week three that my husband does the grocery shopping without me and it is SO HARD not to say, how come you got that brand, or that's not what I wanted, or that's not what I meant or wasn't that expensive, when he comes home with several items I wouldn't have choosen. Wow, is it hard giving up on these things that we type A personalities just love to control, isn't it?!

I've been trying to feel useful even though I can't do anything on my feet. I've found that going back to work, now that I've completed my second week from the couch, was probably the best decision I could have made. I feel very accomplished after having put in a good 8 hours of work.

Yesterday I caught up on several months of photo posting onto my online photo website and got all my photos selected and ordered for my family albums. I also created and ordered our Christmas cards and wrapped all the presents that we have bought already. All the photos should be here by next weekend and I will be able to get the albums updated and the Christmas cards out. Things I can do with my feet up - YEA!!

So, my feet? Well they really didn't like my 3 hr shopping excursion when they were down in the wheel chair for such a long time. I've had increased swelling and soreness - especially in my left foot. I've been extra careful over the last two days to keep my feet up and iced to get back to where I was. For the good news, the incision on my right foot is healing very nicely. It is much less sensitive and the scabbing really seems to be going away. My left foot, again, a different story. It is still red and sore and scabby. This is the foot that was weaping a little about a week ago. The doctor told me to be aware that my two feet will NOT heal the same and not to be surprised when one looks, feels or reacts different than the other. People who only have one foot done at a time, of course have nothing to compare the other foot to. Those of us that get two done at a time have a constant comparision sitting inches away!

The big event of the day was trying to go to church. I have not been back in three weeks, since the weekend before my surgery. We love our church and missed it, but it is a VERY BUSY church - I think 10,000+ people/weekend (www.hopewdm.org) so I did not feel up to navigating through all the people at our normal Sunday morning service. Tonight we decided to try one of the Saturday evening services, which traditionally are less croweded and it worked out great! I was able to put my feet up on the chair next to me for the whole service. It sure felt good to be back! :)

Day 17 - Post Surgery

Bet everyone's wondering how the big Thanksgiving feast went!? Just so happens our 16 year old gonna-be-a-chef someday didn't have to work until 5 PM and was more than happy to help prepare the side dishes with my instruction.

Had him make the stuffing and help me stuff the bird. Last week in his culinary arts class they made Paula Dean's turkey dinner, but they didn't put stuffing in the turkey, just seasonings. He was surprised when I pulled stuff out of both the stomach and neck cavities - LOL - said he was pretty sure they missed the parts in the neck cavity at school. Next we put together the green bean casserole and the cheesy potatoes and put them in the refrigerator. My husband got the table set and carved the turkey. Everyone was happy with their short list of chores and did most of the clean up after I got the left overs put away!

The rest of the evening I spent with my feet up and on ice, in preparation for the possibiity of joining my husband for Black Friday shopping at midnight. The new plan was to go to just a couple of stores, one where he'd go in while I waited in the car, the second we thought would have a wheel chair and that I could roll around through the store and help with the shopping.

First store, goes off without a hitch and we are on the way to the second. They do have one wheel chair just inside the door, which I promptly sit in and start wheeling myself around. Well, I was obviously crazy to think there'd be room in a store on Black Friday for a wheel chair. The lines through the store were double wrapped down most of the aisles within the first half hour of us getting there, which made it impossible for me to get from one place to another. Surprisingly, people were nicer than I expected. I have heard many people say that people do not look them in the eye when they are in a wheelchair or they pretend to not see them. For the most part, people were nice and let me through or go first. I ended up getting in that LONG line and waiting while my husband got the items we wanted and piled them up in my lap and in a large store bag. Some nice young ladies in front of me, holding a spot in the line for their aunts that were shopping, were nice enough to help me move our large bag every time my spot in line shifted forward a few feet. This went on for 1-1/2 hours!! By the time we got to the check out line, we were done shopping and I had enough. It was the longest time my feet were not elevated, since I had surgery.

Just added this picture I remembered I took at the checkout line - LOL!

By the time we got home - around 3:30 AM we were hungry and tired. Had a snack and brought my ice pack to bed with me to ice my feet while we fell asleep. :) Today, I have done almost no standing or walking. I am icing and keeping my feet elevated. I'm not going to lie, my feet were really sore last night and I know I definitely over did it! We did however, get some REALLY great deals and got most of our shopping done, so all's good! :)

Day 15 - Post Surgery

Started the day with a STANDING shower, bare feet and all, and lived to tell about it! I have been able to get my feet wet for over a week now, but I'd been sitting instead of standing in the shower, afraid of all kinds of things - slipping, twisting, dropping something on my feet. My feet have been feeling stronger and less sensitive so I decided to stand up and give it a shot. WooHoo! Success and no more sitting in the shower!

I ended up putting a little vaseline on my feet - all over - and throwing footies on before bed last night. Seems to have helped quite a bit with with the dryness of the incision area. Part of the incision weaped a little bit today and stuck to my sock, so I want to be careful and not put anything but vaseline on it right now until the scabs are gone and the skin is healed up.

Got my last day of work in for the week. I think I've been really good about sitting around and keeping my feet up. Not as good with the ice - only 3 times a day. The swelling hasn't changed much - top of foot and toes, but the black and blueness really changed today, spreading down my left foot.

I took a photo but it really doesn't do it any justice. The skin on my foot looks like the foot of the dead person with the sheet over it on CSI!

Now for four wonderful days off. I'm feeling comfortable about Thanksgiving dinner now. Hubby is making the pumpkin pies as I type. I will make up the cheesy potatoes and green bean casserole and pop those in the refrigerator in the morning, then rest, then I will get the turkey in the oven, then rest, then I will supervise getting the rest of the sides ready and the table set...I will then assist in putting everything out, eat and rest all night while others clean up. I think this is a doable plan. I also have the Christmas list almost done and a husband who's willing to run to the store(s) at midnight if we decide it is worthwhile. All is working out! :)

Hope everyone has a blessed Thanksgiving with their loved ones!

Day 14 - Post Surgery

Hard to believe it's been 2 weeks to the day since I had my surgery! Wow the progress! I can hardly believe how far I actually am compared to where I thought I'd be at this time.

- All the little steristrips have officially fallen off (some of the dangling ones had a little help), as of today.
- My mobility in my boots seems to get a little better each day.
- I am showering barefooted and doing a little barefoot walking around the bathroom in the morning and to the bathroom in the evening.
- My swelling and black & blue toes are slowly getting better.
- I am in my second week of 8 hour workdays (from the couch) and no longer need a nap to get through the day.
- I have been doing non weight bearing exercise almost every day starting the day after surgery.

Two weeks from tomorrow I will be completely out of boots and in tennis shoes. Hard to imagine except when I think about what has been gained in the last two weeks!

Here's today's pics of the feet, showing what the healing incisions look like and what's left of the swelling and black & blueness.

Question for anyone who's reading that has experience in treating scars - is there something I should be putting on the incision area yet (lotion/oil/etc) or should I be waiting until all the scabbing is gone and the skin is clear?

Last, I thought I'd head in to work a couple of days next week, however I forgot to mention this to my doctor when I saw him last week. A friend was shocked by this concept and asked if I had my "doctor's permission" to go back already? Huh? I hadn't even thought to ask. So this morning I leave a voice mail asking if this makes any sense to plan for on week three post surgery? When I put it this way, I think in reality this might not make sense yet. We'll see...

Day 13 - Post Surgery 12 Days

I missed my first daily post yesterday for a couple of reasons: 1) didn't feel like I had much new news 2) was pretty busy 3) had company for dinner/evening and was too tired.

I bet you're wondering what the heck I could be so busy with sitting around in my moon boots?! Well, yesterday morning my husband and I had a bright and early appointment to meet a realtor to look at a townhome for our son/family who will be returning to the states in early January after being gone for about six years now. He is a Marine and has been serving with his familiy in Okinawa for the past three years or so, and previously served in Hawaii, with two tours in Iraq. He started recruiter school about 4 weeks ago in San Diego with the hope of getting stationed in/near Iowa. He got his orders for Des Moines last Thursday and now we are assisting with the house hunting. ANYWAY, we spent about 30 minutes walking through the house and taking photos. Afterwards I can home, put the feet up and iced as I was still a little tired and swollen from overdoing on Friday evening and this didn't help.

I tried to spend the most of yesterday with my feet up, searching for housing on the computer from my chair and ottoman. We had much needed company that brought us dinner Saturday evening (love company bearing food!) and was able to keep feet up pretty good all evening.

Couple of things I've noticed. My feet a more swollen than I thought, I just hadn't looked at them from the right angle. They are really swollen on the bottom at the pads of my feet. I am at the point where I can feel pretty good than overdo, which doesn't really take much and is very difficult to judge. Interestingly my toes are STILL black and blue, which I still can't believe how long that is hanging on.

Another thing that I noticed is that some sadness/depression has started to kick in because of my inability to be more active and do for myself. I am very independant so asking for help is very difficult, no matter how necessary for me right now. I get the impression my husband is also a little tired of me not being able to do more and doesn't smeet to quite get that my feet are suppose to be up still, which leads me to do a little more for myself and to help out more than I probably should.

With the holidays coming up I am coming to realize that a good part or none of the shopping will actually be done by me. I think it would be a very bad idea to try and navigate the very busy stores with my two boots as I am afraid to death someone could step on my feet accidently, as you can't see my feet standing in a line (if I could even stand that long!). I'm also a little worried at this point about Thanksgiving dinner and the Christmas tree. Both of which happen primarily by me with a little help from others. I am sure it will all work out. Just having my own little pity party right now.

This morning to try and make me feel a little better I painted my toes! :) Maybe if they look more normal, I will feel better? Haven't had too much chance to test this theory as I have socks on and ice on them, but plan to take a "gander" at them later and spend a couple minutes enjoying my new beauties! LOL!

Enough for now. A friend is coming over to keep me company while I show her how to create an online photobook and later for dinner my oldest, his wife and grandson coming for the highly requested family favorite, calzones.

Day 11 - Post Surgery 10 days

This is going to be quick as it's been a busy day and I am exhausted.

I did my 5:45 work out this morning and began work on the couch at 7:30 AM. I spent about 5-10 minutes in the kitchen putting together cheesy potatoes for the work Thanksgiving potluck and stuck it in the oven. My friend/coworker picked up me and my dish up and took me in for a work visit/lunch. I took my crutches with me as there is quite a distance between the door and the room we were having our potluck in.

Felt great to be at work and catch up with some of my coworkers, and of course the food is the best I've had in quite awhile. I am carefully watching my diet while I am so inactive.

By the time I got back home I was exhausted and ready for a nap, but my alloted lunch break was over. By about 1:45 I couldn't take it anymore and set my alarm for 20 minutes and fell asleep right where I sat.

Throughout the day today and yesterday I've been practicing more toe wiggling and foot bending while I am working with my feet elevated and boots off. Feels good and seems like a little progress just today over yesterday, but I am certainly not pushing anything as I was told that physcial therapy was not to start for four more weeks...but as you probably know, I am an overachiever so I can't help start practicing - LOL!

Finished up the work day and got up to get dinner in the oven and pick up a bit. Big mistake. Second time on my feet in a day and too much. By the time it was supper time I knew I shouldn't been standing anymore. Left foot starting to hurt pretty good and I am limping. Time to sit down, ice and let everyone else finish getting things ready without me.

Spent a good part of the rest of the night on ice. Haven't looked at my feet yet to see if they are more swollen, but will before I go to bed. Defininitely going to get that Aleve in before bed, so hopefully will still get a good night's sleep.

As good as I feel sitting down with my feet up and in the little day-to-day movement to the bathroom, etc., I sure am not ready to be doing too much standing all at one time or too many times in the same day!

Well, before I fall asleep sitting up again, I better shut this all down for the night! Later!

Day 10 - Post Surgery 9 Days

New and exciting news of the day! I slept in socks, in bed, under the covers and my feet didn't hurt! YEA! I'm naturally a stomach sleeper so I thought it would be uncomfortable and my husband can have very restless legs so I was really worried he was going to kick me and some point. We decided to stick a pillow between my husband's and my feet under the covers. AND IT WORKED!

I also had my boots off my feet quite a bit today and spent some time wiggling my toes and arching my feet. Boy are they tight! I am trying to be very careful not to overdo it, since I had that "accident" the other day.

Other than that I did my normal morning work out and put in another 8 hr day from the couch. I am getting stronger and less tired each day. I think all the meds are finally getting out of my system. I have found that I still can't stand very long as the pressure kind of gets bothersome and I figure that's a sign to not over do it.

Today's pic is of my new feet in socks! :)

Day 9 - Post Surgery 8 Days

So, big surprise for me at the doctor today! First the pictures, then the details!

So, let me start with yesterday, because chronological details work best for me! :) You got the details up through early evening through yesterday's blog. What you don't know is that I had the only bad night's sleep of this whole post surgery time, last night. I happened to be re-positioning my heel down into my boot shortly after I updated my blog when all of a sudden I moved the top part of my foot somehow and ZING I was bolted to attention by searing pain shooting through my foot! Wow! What the heck did I just do and (note to self) don't ever do that again! Well, turns out this horrible aching continued in my foot the whole night. About half way through the night I was debating about taking one of those little pain pills again, but decided I didn't want that in my system, so I took an Aleve at about 4 AM to get 2 hrs of decent sleep. The Aleve is 12 hrs. so I've been good all day now, with no further soreness due to this really big mistake! (PS - doc later says this was a nerve through the incision area and is normal)

I was litterally giddy with excitement for this morning's appointment. Shortly after I checked in and was taken to the room to wait for the doctor, one of the assistant guys starting unwrapping my feet, which is when I learned that my stitches were also coming out today! SAY WHAT???!!! Today?! Serious?! Unbelief. I never thought for a second this was happening today already. I quickly conclude in my mind that I'm ok with this, but wait, isn't it going to hurt? Will I be able to shower, feet and all again tomorrow? I have questions and no time to think them through!

First, the scissors cutting through the colored bandages. Slight tugging and tightness. Not sure I'm liking this idea. Then, we're down to the gauze and SURPRISE! it's stuck with dried blood to the incision area. "Are you going to wet that down a bit so it doesn't rip everything open?!" Starting to freak just a little bit. "No, we don't want to introduce any liquids to the area." Really? Sounds like a good idea to me! Anyway, he proceeds to slowly peel off each layer of the gauze very slowly. I think I'm going to live. :) Lastly, he gingerly peels off this papery piece of material that is stuck right to the incision and stiches. And I survive! Yeah, me!!

Next, the boots go back on for a trip down to x-ray(photos above). This was pretty uneventful, which I am thankful for! Notice in the photos the bone with the new little screw. The doc says they do a "v" cut to give the joint more stability during and after healing. I'm not a doctor, but that sure makes sense to me. Also notice third toe on right foot is still hinged to the left. We are expecting this to go back where it used to be in time when I get to use this part of my foot again.

After x-rays, the doc comes in and we discuss how terrific everything looks, review x-rays, and talk about next "steps" - which are boots for four more weeks and come back for another visit at that time - oh, and don't forget your tennis shoes! :)

Regarding boots: on at ALL times when walking/standing, can be off to sleep and sit.
Regarding showers: yes (not sure yet how that works with boots)
Regarding driving: no
Regarding exercise: nothing with feet. Walk as comfort allows. No fast walking, long walks or running. He has caught a previous client running with one boot on - seriously!
Regarding physical therapy: not yet. Feel free to gently stretch big toe back and forth, but not physical therapy until boots are off. Feet need to rest and heal first.

Doctor is now done with me, and I think I've asked enough question - imagine that! :) Nurse now takes over to remove those stitches. I don't think I've ever had stitches removed before? Apparently just a slight tug, a snip at the knot and a little pull. Not too bad. Then the application of something to help these little strips stay stuck on to keep the incision closed a while longer. Amazing how sensitive this incision area is. YIKES! I can barely touch that area without knowing that I don't want anyone near my feet any time soon. Honestly, right now I can't imagine the incision being touchable for a LONG, LONG time.

Off to home I go. No stitches, no bandanges. Just me and my moon boots.

Another day of work on the sofa today, but now I have socks on and at lunch time I take a little walk with the dog.....just four houses down and back, but sweet nonetheless.

It was a very good day.

Day 8 - Post Surgery 7 days

It has officially been one full week now since surgery. I never in a million years figured this last week would have gone so well. I guess it usually pays to plan for the worst so you can be thrilled when the result is anything better!

Today was day 2 for work and although I was/am extremely tired still, I did not take a daytime nap today. I'm afraid that means I will be passed out sleeping in the next hour though. That's ok, me and my moon boots don't have much to do at night anyway! :)

Another friend came to visit at lunch today and brought another meal, which I will heat up on Friday to save my hubby from another night of cooking. I also got a call from two other friends asking me which night they can bring us food and got several meals delivered last week. I am so truly blessed by some of the most wonderful friends I person could ever have. Not just the ones bringing the meals, but also the ones calling and emailing just to see how I am and if I need anything. It is very touching and I am so appreciative. :)

So, tomorrow is the BIG DAY! My FIRST POST OP APPOINTMENT. Can you tell how excited I am? I have been waiting for this day for a week now - LOL! Photos to follow, of course. :)

Day 7 - Post Surgery 6 days

Thought I'd better make that slight clarification in the title as tomorrow is actually one full week, but I started Day 1 with the day of my surgery.

So, I know everyone's wondering how work went today?! Well, let's just say I am beat! I woke up at 5:45 AM (first time in almost a week), got my little 1/2 hr work-out in, showered, ate and reported to my couch for work at 7:30 AM. By the time I signed on I was already tired and felt like I needed a nap - LOL! I was able to get through 4 hrs then took a much needed lunch break to play ball with the dog on the back deck (it was sunny and 60 degrees today - YEAH!), eat some lunch and take a 20 minute nap. Luckily, I woke up feeling slightly refreshed and able to make it through the next 4 hrs. Although it was tiring it sure beat the never ending nothingness of sitting around all day yesterday!

I started dinner again tonight to help out. :) It was potatoe bar night which doesn't involve more than about 5 minutes of standing to get potatoes cleaned and in the oven, and the toppings ready to go. I let my husband warm the cheese sauce and broccoli when he got home and pull out the bacon bits and sour cream. YUM - and easy family favorite!

I can't wait, wait, wait until my first post op visit on Wednesday. Dying to see what my feet look like under these pink and purple wrappers and pretty sure the doctor will be so amazed at my recovery that he will let me out of these boots way sooner than 5 weeks - LOL!!

Day 6 - Post Surgery (120+ hrs)

Progress every day now. Yesterday evening I made it to my bed and slept pretty good. I had to sleep on top of the covers with a loose blanket so I could rearrange my feet on and off a pillow throughout the night. The boots sure make for clunky sleeping!

Today was super boring I have to say. I've never had a Sunday last so long in my entire life! It's crazy how sleepy I still seem to be, even though I'm not on any medicine. I seem to need 8-9 hrs at night and can't go the whole day without another 20-60 minute nap! This healing thing and the little activities I actually do really zap my energy pretty good.

A couple of successes today! One is that I went out on our back deck and sat down to throw the ball to my dog for awhile. Boy do we BOTH miss our multiple daily walks. My husband and son take her 1-2 times a day, which we both appreciate, but it's not the same as the longer walks we take. She can tell something's wrong with me as she spends a lot of time laying at my side with her head on my leg, but every once in awhile she starts jumping on me as if to say, "Come On. Let's go outside already!" Can't wait until the doctor says I can take a least a short walk to the end of the block and back!

My second success today is getting dinner ready and on the table - WOOHOO! A friend brought me a pan of homemade lasagne, salad and frozen garlic bread. I know I really didn't have to do much, but I felt like my old self getting dinner warmed up in the oven and the table set for a family meal! :) The little, normal things are what make us happiest, aren't they?

Tonight I am going to try and go out of the house again. It is the Fall cheerleading banquet and one daughter is a senior and the other is the Coach. They had a winning competition season taking 2nd at State last weekend. So I can't miss this one. Hopefully just a few minutes walking to and from the car won't be something I regret later!

Tomorrow is finally almost here, it will be my first day working from home. Should be a pleasant change from the last several days of boredom! Will let you know how that turns out...

Day 5 - Post Surgery (96+ hrs)

Success in the potty department now that I am officially off the pain killers - enough said on this topic!

I thought maybe I'd need to have some pain meds again at some point during the day yesterday, maybe after my work out or shower or to sleep, but the time never came. Feeling less discomfort each day and still have never felt a moment of anything I could call pain. On a 0 to 10 scale with excruciating pain being at a 10 and no discomfort at 0, I would say I've had a few hours all together in the 2-3 range, but mostly I've been in the 0-1 range -- even now that I am off pain meds.

I did get talked into going out of the house yesterday and went on a short trip to visit my brother-in-law in the hospital. I was gone a total of 2 hrs. and had my feet up most of that time, but it was just too much for me. I came home feeling nauseous, very tired and had a headache. I took an Aleve, laid down on the couch and fell asleep by 9 PM. I never made it up to my own bed. I guess I'm just not ready to be moving too much yet.

My exercise program is going well. I felt stronger this morning, now that I am not on pain meds. I was even able to do some hip lifts, with my feet elevated, that didn't bother my feet and seemed to work out my legs a little better.

Here's today's feet pictures. Notice the blue toes are still there! My big Saturday night plans are trying to stay awake for a movie and having my first glass of wine in a week!

Day 4 - Post Surgery (72+ hrs)

So, the biggest problem right now is not my feet, but my tummy. Sorry if this is too much information, but it is real, I NEED to go potty. It has been over 72 hrs and I can't stand it any more. I took my last pain pill this morning at 8 AM and began taking stool softeners to hopefully kick my system back into gear...but I am STILL waiting for the magic to happen. UGH~

My feet are terrific! I developed some freaky bluish black toes last night which kind of weirded me out, but my little sausage toes don't feel any different and I am still in no pain.

I added leg exercises to my routine this morning - donkey kicks, fire hydrants and inner and outer leg lifts. These felt great! At this point I've figured out how to work out just about everything from the knee up. Will need to try and figure out some calf exercises that my feet can bare next week.

Now that I'm feeling so good it is getting harder and harder not to get up and do stuff around the house. This will be my biggest challenge over the next few week until I see the doctor and he tells me I can do what I want!

I am so thankful for the calls and visitors and extra help from my family and especially my daughter who spent all day Wednesday, Thursday and Friday with me - making my meals, watching over me and keeping me company. Don't know what I would have done without her here to keep me company all week!

Lastly, I've decided that tonight's the night I am going to try to sleep in my bed again. I've been delaying it because these "moon boots" are so BIG and I am suppose to keep them on at all times, so I'm afraid there won't be enough room to sleep comfortably in my own bed and don't want to keep Ken up all night when he has a full day of work ahead. So, wish us luck!

Day 3 - Post Surgery (48 hrs)

My healing continues to amaze me and pretty much everyone else! I am sleeping, doing upper body and core workouts and showering without any issues.

I did find that my feet are bothering me a little more in the evening when I'm trying to sleep and realized that they are so hot and swollen inside these "moon boots" that I'm wearing, that I need to open them up to cool off. Once I did that last night, all was good!

Here's what the boots look like. I'm pretty sure they make them this big, uncomfortable and clumsy to walk in for a reason - to keep you sitting on your butt with your feet up as long as possible!

So the big highlight of my day today was shaving my legs! After my shower I was able to sit on a chair outside the shower, remove my boots, wash below my knees and shave. AHH...now I feel almost completely back to normal! :)

Already looking forward to my doctor appointment next week to get a peak under the bandages.

Day 2 - Post Surgery (24 hrs)

I am now 24 hrs post surgery and feeling terrific! I have had NO PAIN so far. A little tightness and slight "discomfort" at times, but I am pleasantly suprised by how great I feel. Every once in a while when I'm feeling absolutely nothing in my feet I have to wonder if I actually had surgery -- then I look at my swollen toes and bandages and confirm that I actually did!

I am taking pain medication, which may be the main reason why I am feeling so good, 1 tablet of Hydrocodone every 4 hrs and 1 Aleve every 8 hrs, and I am keeping my feet up - just as the doctor ordered.

I slept on the couch last night and found that putting a pillow between my legs let me sleep on my side pretty comfortably. I set my alarm to get my 4 hr. pain med dose in, but otherwise slept very well.

This morning I felt so good that I began my at home workout and took a shower. All my planning has paid off - both went off without a hitch! YEAH!

Here's today's photo of my foot outside of the boots:

Day 1 - Post Surgery (5 hrs)

Woohoo - I feel terrific!

I got a great nights sleep and wasn't really nervous at all this morning. I took my dog for her last walk this morning and watched my husband eat eggs, hasbrowns, toast, juice and coffee - UGH - while I caught up on the news and FB before my check in.

Upon check in I read and signed the paperwork, then only sat down briefly before they called me back to put on the cute little drafty gown. No warm chocolate chip cookies were offered at check-in, in case you're wondering - LOL!

Got my IV hooked up, chatted with the nurse, the anesthesiologist, then the doctor, made a couple of calls and we were rolling down the hall.

The surgery staff were very nice and introduced me by name to the team when I was wheeled in to the OR. I was moved from the gurnee to the table. Then they spread my arms out on two perpendicular boards, slipped a mask slightly in front of my face...and that's all I remember!

When I woke up I felt a little discomfort in my left foot. Not sure what they gave me, but within a few minutes the pain was magically gone! I was released within the hour and made it home and to the couch with no issues and promptly fell to sleep.

As of now....no pain and I am relaxing comfortably....just praying this lasts through the night!

Here's today's pics. Can't see much yet, but those toes are looking pretty straight!

Twas the Night Before Surgery

Got the official surgery time call this morning. They are expecting me for "check in" at 8:15. They made it sound like I was checking into a hotel. What do you think the chances are they will give me one of those warm soft chocolate cookies at check-in tomorrow?! LOL!

Tonight's the night that I need to think of all those last minute things and get them done.

After I made my last dinner (check), and took my dog for her last walk to the park (check), my husband and I ran to the mall to get a present for a wedding our 13 year old son is attending this weekend (check), then I finished the last load of laundry (check), made my temporary bed on the couch (check), got my clothes ready for tomorrow, took off all my jewelry and filled a laundry basket with my favorite comfy clothes so that they will be easy for me to tell someone what to bring me(check and double check)!

I am officially out of things to do. I debated about having my "last" glass of wine, then decided since we didn't already have a bottle open I'd treat myself to a small bowl of ice cream instead. Probably better for my hydration anyway! I'm actually going to set my alarm for 11:45 PM and get up to have as much water as I can possibly drink before going back to bed. I have small vein issues, so the more hydrated I am when they hook me up tomorrow, the better!

Not sure there is anything else to do but to get a good night's sleep. Hoping I feel good enough to blog about it all tomorrow!

Less Than Two More Days

YIKES! My last weekend day before the BIG DAY! Lots to think about a and get done, because that's what I do!

So, every weekend I make the food menu for the week based on who's home which nights and what's going on. Then, I make the grocery list and get the shopping done. This week was a little different, since I won't be cooking the meals after Monday night, I had to get input from my husband on what he wanted to cook. Lucky for us we both love to cook and he seemed kind of happy to get a chance to be making a few of his favorites, like beef stew and pork chops. :)

I also spent a little extra time at the grocery store thinking about some food choices to have around over the next few weeks, that are lower in carbs and calories, since I won't be needing much of either. I picked up a few bags of frozen vegetables and frozen berries. I also picked up some higher protein items like cottage cheese and tuna. I'm going to try and do a better job of managing what goes in my mouth the next few weeks while I am not able to get in any exercise.

Today I practiced going up and down the stairs to our second floor on my butt. The bedroom and the shower are both upstairs. I'm wondering how reasonable it is to think I'll be able to even go up or down the stairs in the first couple of days or if I'll just be sleeping on the couch instead? I also thought through how I'm going to get in the shower without getting two feet wet. This is going to be tricky. I'm thinking one stool in the shower and a folding chair on the outside of the shower. Clearly I am going to have to be very careful with the spray on the shower head so I don't get the whole floor soaked - LOL!

I took home my work computer this weekend to give it a test and make sure I have all the right connections still active to work from home, as my plan is to take off after Monday this week and then be working from home the following Monday.

Funny thing about all of this planning is I have absolutely no clue how reasonable any of this is, but since I'm a planner I feel 100% better just because I have one!

The Countdown Has Begun

Just 3 more days until my surgery to get rid of my two little bunions. I hadn't been very anxious about the surgery until the last few days, starting with my pre op appointment this last Tuesday. Reality is starting to set in as I was finalizing some things at work Friday and working through the list at home of the things I need to get done this weekend, before I am off my feet for several weeks.

We spent most of the day getting all the final yard work done for the year - trimming all the shrubs and perennials back, raking, putting away the patio furniture, and cleaning out the garage.

I also took the deep purple polish off my toes and gave myself my last little pedicure. Kind of feels like a little going away ceremony for my feet, since I won't be seeing much of them after surgery and I imagine I won't be feeling up to giving myself a pedicure for quite awhile.

Speaking of my feet, now's probably a good time to show the "before" photo.

Most people say, your feet don't look "that" bad and I agree that I have definitely seen worse, however the pain has begun, shoes don't fit as well and the deformity of the right foot has gotten progressively worse over the last couple of years. The doctor and I have decided it is best to fix this now before he has to fix much more later.