Keeping Up With Colie

The beginning of this past week was very difficult for me. I felt fantastic Monday.  I took breaks and laid down, but it ended up not being enough for my brain, I guess. Tuesday I woke up feeling like I did when they moved me out of ICU - dizzy, disoriented, my head full of pressure, loads of pain, etc. The worst days were Tuesday and Wednesday, but every day has been getting better. I am stronger each day and just have to remember to take it easy...even if I feel good. The doctors warned me that I would feel better but wouldn't be ready for normal activity for a while because it would make me sick. They were very right!
I've developed some lumps under my skin near the incision that have been getting bigger, but they are small so not much of a concern unless it gets close to the size of an egg. Some CSF leaks resolve on their own, so they told us not to be concerned right now, but just have Dr. Heffez check it out when we go back to Milwaukee in a few weeks.
So, slow recovery, headaches, pain, etc, but overall my recovery has been fantastic given the type of surgery, and considering how it goes for a lot of others who undergo the same procedure. I personally know 5 others who have had the surgery, and only one has emerged without complications. I am so blessed to be doing so well!
I am so looking forward to going back to Milwaukee - it's going to be nice after not being out of the house for so long. I think I'll be cleared to ride in the car (for trips other than doctors) after my checkup on the 26th since that will be just over 6 weeks from surgery. I am so looking forward to that! I know I have to pace myself and not overdo it, but it will be nice to have the freedom to go somewhere even if just for 15 minutes or so. We did go for a walk today and I made it half way around the block! That was great, and it was such a beautiful day for it.
I am really looking forward to holding Allison again. Having her lay with me on the couch is just not the same as getting to pick her up and hold her. I'm excited to do the cleaning, schooling, bathing, and playing! I know it will be a while to get up to doing all of those, but I'm really looking forward to it.
We have been so blessed as a family to have gotten to spend all of this time together. We have grown in our relationships with each other and with God, and although it has sometimes been difficult, overall, this has really been a precious time to develop as a family.
Thank you all for being such an encouragement and for allowing God to use you in so many ways. We are endlessly blessed.