Judy is settling in at home

What a difference being at home makes! Judy slept the best since before surgery, getting up only once during the night to tinkle. For the time being, she is sleeping in the guest bedroom since getting in and out of the guest bed is a little easier than trying to tackle the water bed.

We've been a little concerned about a "stitch" in her left side, in the kidney area. Last night it was much more pronounced, and she was positively groaning a few times just sitting up and moving around, but we used the heating pad and she's been really good in regard to rehydrating, and even though there was a little soreness today it appears as if things have become better.

The other worry that we have is that there still has not been a "real" bowel movement--a little mucus-like stuff here and there, but she feels tight and full. If nothing "happens" by Monday we will call Dr. Phillips' office. Addendum: While writing this, it did happen!!!!! We're in business--the real thing.

Judy spent most of the day lounging around the house, taking things easy. (Thank goodness!) Emily came by to keep her company, and with Em's help Judy was able to take a shower, get her food, and even take a few easy walks in front of the house. A few friends and neighbors came by to say hi, and several of them brought by food. From Miles H. and Judy R. in NC Judy received one of those incredible "edible arrangements" with fruit galore and chocolates to boot! We really appreciate all those goodies, but we're now maxed out on fridge and freezer space! Everything looks yummy, but Judy is eating so little right now and I can only eat so much, so maybe hold off for a few days before bringing by anything else.

With Emily around the house I was able to lead the long Grape Day ride for our bike club. It was a gorgeous day, with little wind, and we had a nice group together. I ended up with a total of 68 miles for the day, which is farther than I have ridden in many, many weeks and months. Having fun with our club buddies at the winery sure was fun too, and I only wish Judy could have come out for this event as she's always liked it.

We also managed to give Judy her first home-administered antibiotics treatment via the central line. Just in case, her friend Sandi—still in town on her trip from Dallas—supervised my hooking Judy up, and apparently I didn't screw up too badly.

After supper (not much for Judy, but she is trying hard to eat as much as possible) Judy opened a package that had arrived yesterday afternoon but that she had felt too worn out to open earlier. She was absolutely floored by the gorgeous quilt that Jennifer B.'s mom Eileen had made for her. Judy is all wrapped up in it right now and feeling cozy. Thank you so very, very much, Eileen!

Well, that was a lot of good news for the day, and we're excited about the progress (especially what happened in the bathroom just in the last few minutes). Let's hope we continue in this direction.

Jürgen