Moments of Freedom: Movement

About a week and a half after the surgery, I was walking in the treadmill, sporting a new sports bra underneath my tee shirt.  I had get off for a second to pick something off the floor when I noticed something different.  Something good. 

You see, before the surgery, I would always calculate the effort and inconvenience it would take to bend over to pick something up.  Effort, meaning to strain on my back.   Inconvenience meaning the likelihood of my bra strap slipping off my narrow shoulders, then having to hoist it back up again--additional effort.

As usual, I calculated.  Seeing as it was my water bottle I needed, I figured it was worth it.

Then it happened.  

Nothing.

There was no back strain.  My bra strap didn't slip--racer backs can't (I've never been able to wear this style before).

My eyes welled up with tears as  I moved my arms and torso in all directions with out ANY negative consequences.  I know it seems like a small thing, but it is huge to me.

I have been enjoying picking things up, like Liam, liberally without calculating and without the prior the effort or inconvenience.  Freedom indeed :)

Moments of Freedom: Folded Arms

For those of you interested in my recent operation, I thought I'd follow up with the additional freedoms I now enjoy with shorter posts called "Moments of Freedom"

Today: Folded Arms

Just four or five days after the surgery, I was happily chatting in the kitchen with my mother and sister. I noticed my body language didn't match the lighthearted mood of the conversation.  You see, I was crossing my arms.  Never in my adult life have I been able to casually and comfortably fold my arms across my body.   When I realized what I was now able to do, I'm sure I interrupted someone and said, "I apologize--I'm not really upset, but LOOK!  I can fold my arms!  This is so great!"

My mom promptly took my picture :)  

So if you see me somewhere, arms crossed or folded or whatever it's probably not because I'm upset.  It's because I can.  And that makes me a happy lady.

Operation Freedom: Before and After

Needless to say, we LOVE the results of the operation. I have LOTS to say about this experience, which I hope to write about soon. Right now, I am thankful to be home with my love, Sam, and am keeping busy unpacking and whatnot. Thanks for checking in with us!