The hardest and I mean the hardest thing about recovering from plastics is the firm instructions to move like an 85 year old arthritic woman walking on an icy sidewalk - slowly and carefully. I want to go freaking run a marathon or ride a bike or something. Good news... I feel GOOD (to the tune of James Brown, but dancing isn't allowed either)

Since my dear friend care taker wont let me do a 5 k, and I have read alot and have walked the local mall and have explored every corner of the hotel and we have discussed the meaning of life about 100 times.... I am filled with random thoughts to spew...haha

I watched a newstory about a woman boxer down here in Mexico. Didn't understand a dang word... but I thought...that looks fun, but I don't want someone hitting back.lol. It inspired my friend to tell me about a class to take that teaches women hand to hand self defense that is near me (her son works there) and also to think about doing crossfit or something like that once I am recovered. I just want to MOVE. Anyway, at the moment, the idea of doing hand to hand combat with someone that wont hit back just sounds very appealing... maybe I have been cooped up too long...LOL

I do plan to take a gun safety and shooting course in January (ooohh maybe I can start a board war over the topic? - told you I am bored). I have several reasons, but one is that I am going to start competing in a horse event called cowboy mounted shooting. I am a pretty good rider, love to ride FAST but never shot a gun before so thought I should start there...haha

I must also notice that where I am at in Mexico is so muchlike the USA that other then the language and the nacho like dish at the Breakfast bar at the hotel, I am shocked with howmuch things are the same. No problem at huge grocery store - laid out the same way as typical urban / suburban American grocery. cars are the same, people act and look very similar etc etc. I had been to TJ mexico before, but I am in Monterrey and it really is quite... familiar feeling. I have traveled alot internationally so keep that in mind too.

Found the cutest dang outfit at the mall. cant try it on over drains, but think I am going to take a chance and buy it anyway because I want some kind of souvenier and it is at least useful (and my freaking drain doesnt count as a souvenier!!!) And it i just adorable.

Today, 2 of 7 drains come out. I think 4 should come out based on output, but another day to be sure.... grrr. They tell me I will travel home with one drain which will be easy peasy compared to 7!

Read a book called the 5 languages of love. Its been out forever, and I hate self help books in general, but it is really awesome. Clarified in my mind beyond what I already knew why I felt so unloved by my ex that is for sure. I recommend it - easy read and just helps you see that different people need to receive love in different ways to really feel it.

I have more random thoughts, but nurse will behere soon so it is time to start undoing the torture device...ie compression garments... so my heart gets used to beating without without it before the shower. seriously, it is so tight you faint if you take it off and get up too fast. This is why women used to "swoon" I think... those corsets that they wore so tight change your blood pressure and when that thing loosens...hello floor if you don't give yourself a few minutes.

your random thoughts for the day?

I bought a black robe of a very nice fabric. If it weren't for the drains tucked inside it is practically evening wear. Good thing cuz I w e a r it to breakfast every morning at the hotel. Tomorrow I s travel day. I feel some anxiety over it.

How are you going to travel? How are you going to sit for so long?

I had no idea you live so close to me Jane! Seattle is just a hop skip and a jump up the freeway from Portland.

You're doing great! It sounds so painful and I am such a baby when it comes to pain. I don't think I could do it.

I have a 22 pistol. I can't shoot it. I have a really hard time with the kick back and the noise. I want to shut my eyes and shoot. It's wierd. I hope you do better than me.

My notions about the pain etc are way different than reality. I can sit and walk fine. I spent few hundred more on first class to be more comfy. I have wheelchair assistance arranged so I don't have to stand forever going thru customs.

The big challenge is moving slow to not risk complications. The tight garments help protect fascia. This photo was me when I had more drains tucked in fanny pack. I am down to 3 now.

Love the fanny pack. They come in handy. I even slept with mine for 2 weeks or so. Good luck traveling and enjoy those 1st class seats. I'm sure you'll be glad to get back home.

Happy and safe travels to you. You're looking great.

Love the fanny pack. They come in handy. I even slept with mine for 2 weeks or so. ...

LoL Considering the common old world definition of "fanny" Its only appropriated that you sleep with it.

I had no idea you live so close to me Jane! Seattle is just a hop skip and a jump up the freeway from Portland.

You're doing great! It sounds so painful and I am such a baby when it comes to pain. I don't think I could do it.

I have a 22 pistol. I can't shoot it. I have a really hard time with the kick back and the noise. I want to shut my eyes and shoot. It's wierd. I hope you do better than me.

Would love to.meet u someday.. But leave that gun at home..lol

Is your hair naturally curly Jane? I could totally see you with a 50's style Elizabeth Taylor short 'do!

Yes that is natural curl but i am not quite ready to let go of my long hair yet. My caregiver showed me a new way to put my hair up that i cant wait to try - a going out hairdo! My hair doesnt suit current flatiron straight styles so i play up the curls to be different.

Totally love the languages of love. It taught me a lot about myself and to better appreciate how others' showed their love for me. Which style is yours? To express and to receive?

Poetry. Recite it using sign language. Feel the thoughts in your heart. That is true love!