For anyone living in the North you know what I mean. I'm trying to time when I will start taking things down for the winter-and since my surgery is October 1 timing is getting away from me! My hubby has a mild form of CP and he is not physically able to help much-so it has always been my job to get the yard ready. I need to take down the deck furniture/gazebo/pool filter/hot tub (a small "spa-in-a-box)/yard lights. I hate to take it all down so soon in the year, but I'm afraid after surgery I will be unable to do any lifting. But it definitely makes it all seem so real-I'm really doing this thing! I'm really going to have most of my stomach REMOVED FOREVER. Gulp!

I've gotta keep my eye on the prize- healthier, happier, and able to keep up with the grandbabies and do my job without feeling like I'm gonna die at the end of the day!

That's what children are for... even the grown ones! LOL Seriously, have someone come help you put stuff away when the time comes.

Agreed, don't be afraid to ask for help. My husband has muscular dystrophy so I needed to shore up my support group for after surgery. Some of it I hired, some was given by my family, friends and neighbors. So many times people want to help, but don't know what they can do, so they wait to be asked. Alternatively, if you don't have anyone you would feel comfortable asking to "volunteer", why not hire a few industrious and strong teenagers in your neighborhood to help? If you plan for it now, maybe you can enjoy your yard a little longer before having to take it all down.

I used to live up north and remember the fall clean up and winter prep all too well. I am happy to be living in Florida now where my patio stays out year round (unless a hurricane is coming )

Thanks! My hubby just told me he's been calling around to have the pool "closed" professionally.