Pain and Progress

Last night was really hard for me. I was in a lot of pain but was reluctant to take pain medicine because I'm concerned about its effect on my stomach. I finally gave in about 3:00 AM and took pain medicine and was able to sleep a little bit. I also had a very painful coughing fit. It lasted about a minute and ended with me coughing up some phlegm which scared me but my surgeon said that was actually a good thing.

On a more positive note, I got the tube out of my nose this morning. It feels so good to have it out. I think that as each of these things comes out of me I'm going to feel a little bit more like myself.  

I'm getting a reputation around here as the lady who walks a lot. I like to try to walk a little bit longer each time than I did the last time. Yesterday I walked about 7 times for over 20 minutes each time.  I even brought my running shoes so I can lace them up and take this seriously!  

Another good thing is that (finally) ground is being broken on our new house today. It's been a long process to plan and get all the permits. It's nice to know that they are starting work on it. 

I'm in a lot of pain today. I am using the pain medicine which helps some.  I was also able to take a liquid medicine by mouth: the first thing I've eaten or drank since the surgery. It's stayed down so it looks like my surgeons knew what they were doing!  

So you can see the progress I'm making I am going to post a picture of me after my surgery on Monday:

Here I am today:

I can't read much because the pain medicine makes my mind fuzzy. I would LOVE it if any of you would pass on any inspirational quotes in the comments. Thanks so much for your kind words yesterday. I'm often brought to tears reading your supportive words at this difficult time.