Day 67 of the Journey (Shabbat) -Panama City Beach, FL

As predicted, starting yesterday and today the campground filled up, pretty much to capacity.  Surprisingly enough, people are relatively quiet and kids are well behaved (i.e. no loud parties and drunken shouting by the adults and no kids running rampantly around).  But there's still 2 more days!

Unfortunately, this had a detrimental effect on our electricity.  We have a whole-house surge protector.  To avoid our electronics getting fried when there's a voltage spike (or when it gets too low), all the power to the RV is automatically shut off.  With so many people using a lot of power on the same grid, it was pretty much non-stop shutting off (in other words, no power) from 8pm last night until about 2pm today.  The temperature reading on our weather station read 107 at one point, so it was not a good day to be without power.  Folks will be leaving tomorrow, so let's hope the power continues to stay on.

Took another very long walk today.  Not intentional - we followed a wrong path and landed up taking a little hike through the woods before finding our way back to the main road.  It was scenic and shady with a soft breeze at least.  Cooler than the inside of the RV.  Took a cold shower when we returned.

Day 66 of the Journey -Panama City Beach, FL

Today was the last day of physical therapy.  Therapist has not had a chance to talk to the doctor yet, but she's pretty certain I will not gain all that much benefit from outpatient PT in 5 visits.  Plus, being a Friday before a holiday weekend, it's unlikely I'd get the authorization from my insurance company in time anyway.  Recommendation is just to keep on doing what I've been doing, as my progress has been excellent. 

I'll probably do a lot of walking today, just because I'm curious.  Lots of activity with RVs pulling in and out all over the place, preparing for the Labor Day weekend.  Most folks, I'm learning, are relatively local and coming here for the country jamboree (mentioned in a post a few days ago).  It's supposed to rain all weekend, too!  Glad I don't have tickets for that outdoor festivity!  In fact, the sky just got very dark.  May need to postpone that walk after all.

I can't believe it's Friday already, or that I'm on day 66.  Where is the time going???

Shabbat dinner:
Challah rolls, potato soup, grilled tuna steaks, spinach, baked potatoes, sauteed mushrooms & onions

Day 65 of the Journey -Panama City Beach, FL

Took a really long walk today; probably a good mile round trip.  We found a path off to the side of the pool, followed it, and discovered it lead to the beach!  Didn't cross the street to get there, though.  And I need pain pills and to lie down for a few hours afterwards.  I think I overdid it just a little.


There was a little gazebo a few feet before the exit of the campground and we took these few photos of each other:

A few more folks moved in today.  Still, a pretty quiet group so it's still peaceful.

Dinner:
Yesterday:  spaghetti with homemade sauce (diced tomatoes, mushrooms, garlic, and diced zucchini), faux chicken patties parmesian.

Tonight: zucchini & onions with Italian style (veggie) sausage, homemade mashed potatoes.

Day 63 of the Journey -Panama City Beach, FL

Today was a fixup day.  Fred came over and helped Mitch put the door back on the track.  It was only semi-successful; it is inside the pocket now rather so no longer in the way of the steps, but it doesn't open or close smoothly.  We'll need to call in a professional to repair it properly. After a lovely lunch out, Mitch went to Fred's house and helped install a ceiling light/fan.  I went along too and hung out with Twila while the boys worked.  Returned home at 6:00.  Had a dinner of leftovers, took a shower and vegged out the rest of the night.

At some point soon, I really need to get in the habit of taking pictures!

Dinner
Dinner - leftover stuffed peppers, leftover salmon from lunch

Day 62 of the Journey -Panama City Beach, FL

The heat wave broke a bit today.  It was actually quite lovely out.  Therapy is getting brutal now.  I have been given more intense exercises using resistance bands, so I am feeling extremely sore, sometimes even in pain.  But this is all good stuff; it means I'm healing.  It's just kind of hard to get motivated to do my exercises!  I don't mind walking, though and I am now allowed to walk around outside without the walker.  I think I may be able to put it away in the basement now.

Four more RVs moved into the campground today.  Besides it being Labor Day weekend this coming weekend, there's a huge country jamboree (Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam) a few miles down the road, including such names as Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley and Blake Shelton (I've only heard of the first one) but people are coming in from all over for the festivities.

Dinner:
Stuffed peppers, stuffed with a combination of rice, vegetarian "beef" crumbles, onions, mushrooms and tomatoes. 

Day 61 of the Journey -Panama City Beach, FL

Not a whole lot going on.  Way too hot.  This is from our weather station:

A/C doesn't seem to be working, but I suppose it is.  Just need to keep going outside and then back in to feel it.

The highlight of the day was going to Target to buy Mitch some much needed shorts.  I found a few tops on sale for $5.00 each.  Also bought a few odds & ends.  Also spent the day opening the few dozen envelopes containing medical bills and trying to sort through that.  Thank goodness for insurance but we still owe close to $7K.  This doesn't include the most recent hospital stay, the week at the rehab hospital, the surgeon or therapy; those bills are yet to arrive.  If I procrastinate paying them, will they miraculously disappear?

Dinner:
Noodle casserole: farfelle noodles mixed with leftover potato/celery soup, topped with Mexican blend cheese.

Day 60 of the Journey (Shabbat) -Panama City Beach, FL

Another 4 trailers came to the park between yesterday and today, but it was still very peaceful and quiet.  I took a very long walk (for me, in this condition, anyway), from our site to the main office which is probably about 1/4 mile round trip.  Heat index 113.  Very frustrating walking past the pool with its glistening clear water calling my name.  Maybe by next week I'll be able to immerse.  This was also the first Shabbat we've observed in our home since being in our seller's driveway in June and the very first at our own location.  Otherwise, it was a day of reading and napping.

Went out to a very nice restaurant on the beach with Fred & Twila.  Watched a nice sunset, and of course, neither Mitch nor I had our phones with us to take a photo.  Beaches are such beautiful places, but it will be a long time before I'm ready to walk on sand.  But I can enjoy the view from the dock or deck or restaurant or boardwalk or wherever for now, and take in deep breathes of that luscious sea air.

Dinner:
Out to eat.  Ordered the blackened grouper with potatoes and a side tossed salad.

Day 58 of the Journey -Panama City Beach, FL

Haven't really gotten a whole lot accomplished in terms of reorganizing the "house" in the past 2 days, but I'll cut Mitch some slack due to his having worked the night shift and needing to fix the door (which is turning out to be a major undertaking).  It is now a little after 1:00pm and he's still sleeping.  We desperately need groceries so we're planning to go out shopping (I'll use the motorized cart most stores provide to get around).  Then I guess he'll work on the door some more when we return.  Assuming it's not dark out when he wakes up! (LOL - I'll be waking him up shortly).

Meanwhile, thought I'd share a few photos of what I see when I go outside my door (shhhh... don't tell Mitch I snuck outside while he was asleep.  Don't worry; I took my phone with me and didn't wander off very far.  Besides, it's way too hot out there).

The view out the small kitchen window (what I'm seeing when I sit at the computer at the table).  That's a glass and silver mobile that's solar powered and lights up at night.

 

The view out the large kitchen window. 

The view when I step outside and turn to the left.  All that empty space ahead will most likely be filled with RV's over the Labor Day weekend.  We arrived when school started, so we're really fortunate to have the quiet and serenity for a little while.

Stepping out to the end of my RV... the area with umbrellas is the pool.  My incision isn't healed enough for the dr. to allow me to immerse in any body of water yet.  Frustrating!

And this is the CoW and Bull parked.

I think I am going to record our meals as well - for posterity and to get some ideas in the future.  Generally, breakfast and lunch are "catch as catch can" so I'll only post dinner.

Dinner:
Challah rolls, potato & celery soup, salmon, baked potatoes, asparagus.

Day 56 of the Journey -Panama City Beach, FL

Today was moving day and, of course, an adventure it was.   Mind you, this was being done with Mitch having worked a night shift, so he was running on about 3 hours of sleep (he has another job tonight and the next).

My suggestion was to pack all our belongings, with the exception of what we needed at night, into a box or 2, throw it in the back seat of the Bull and unpack at our leisure.  Mitch had a different idea and brought everything into the CoW and put things away – unfortunately, not in any kind of order.  He just threw things in any empty space in cabinets and drawers that he can find.  Not only is it that much more work to do now to get reorganized (I admit, I’m the anal one here), but it also took up precious time.

We started packing at 11 and left the driveway at 2:30.  First bump – got around the corner and the truck wouldn’t move.  Turned out that somehow we were still in neutral, although I don’t know how we made it that far.  Went about another 2 blocks and it just didn’t feel right.  Heard a loud bump and then it stopped again and we couldn’t get it started.  Mitch jumped out and determined we ran over a hairbrush.  But in the process, he also discovered that his flashers weren’t working on the CoW (something that should always be checked before leaving anywhere!!!).  This was indicative of the power cords not being attached snugly, so not only were the lights not working, but also the trailer brakes.  So the fact that it stopped pulling must be a safety feature.  He checked all the cables and plugs and everything worked just fine from that point on.  But it was rather nerve-wracking to have the fear that we were stuck in the road only a few blocks from Fred's house.

Got to the campground ½ hour later.  It is almost completely empty right now and we shall enjoy the serenity until Labor Day weekend, when it will be very crowded and noisy.  It appeared to be a small, tight space, but we were told the camp has someone that works for them who helps folks back into their spots.  We asked for his help since I’m not able to help much right now, but he wasn’t available for at least ½ hr.  Mitch tried to park it himself, getting in and out of the truck every few inches.  Forty-five minutes later he was still trying to back in, when help finally arrived.  I was amazed at how quickly and easily this guy backed it in – like steering a car.  He admitted that he’s been driving tractor trailers and RVs for the past 40 years and he backs these things in 20 times a day, so he has a LOT of experience!

Next bump -- Mitch was inside the CoW, getting things ready to hookup (actually, I'm not sure what he was doing in there).  He was in the bedroom and somehow the bedroom door slipped closed.  The slide was still in, resulting in his getting locked in for a while.  He managed to get out, but only after breaking the door!!!  Hopefully it's not really broken but just severely off the track and he'll be able to fix it.  I sure hope so because the position it's in blocks the handrail by the steps leading up to the bedroom, something I need to hold on to.

 

Finally, everything was hooked up (we have water, 50 amp electric, sewer and cable tv at the site).  I tried to put things away and organize but I was quickly reminded of my limitations, so I landed up doing as much (little) as I could and sitting on the couch until he was done.  At this point, a deep depression set in, especially since Mitch keeps forgetting my limitations as well and expects me to do things or just forgets to do things for me.  Depression due to not being able to do all the things I want to do -- the SIMPLE things that involve bending.  I know, I know -- this too shall pass.  It was only a few weeks ago when I was crying for some kind of normalcy and wishing my limited movements would at least be a result of healing as opposed to just not wanting to dislocate the hip again.  And that day has arrived.  And so, too, will I be able to do more things.  Like take a shower.  I want to take one tonight, but Mitch is gone and I will not attempt that alone in the RV, especially since we want to put down the non-skid stuff and a bar to provide more stability to the shower seat.  

Oh well.  Tomorrow is another day and Mitch will be here to help organize (I know I'll be driving him absolutely crazy with the small stuff, but this is home and I want it to be just so).  The therapist will come out to the RV to work with me here as well.

Day 55 of the Journey - Lynn Haven, FL

Today is the last day we will be imposing on our dear family.  We made reservations at a campground starting tomorrow through mid-Sept so I can continue physical therapy.  Will have more to post, and start the travelogue then.

Mitch still working and actually just got called for a roll-out  job with Sonic which has the potential of being nationwide and long term.  So who knows what the future brings?  That's one of the beauties of this lifestyle though.

Day 54 of the Journey - Lynn Haven, FL

Last night we went to a community theater production of Rocky Horror Picture Show.  Not my favorite movie/play but it is Mitch's, so I humored him.  Unfortunately, I think it was way too soon to be out and about and sitting for so long.  I was in extreme pain by the time I got back to the house.  At least I'm learning my limits.

Today Mitch was checking the tire pressure in all the tires and filling where needed.  He wasn't wearing a shirt and came in looking like a chia pet!  It was the first time we used a really cool amenity of the RV - the outdoor shower (more like just a hose, actually).  But it worked just fine to get the grass off.  It's weird how such little things like this amaze and astound me!

Day 52 of the Journey - Lynn Haven, FL

Another milestone day.  Was able to climb into the Bull (truck).  It was a little more challenging than getting into a car or SUV and it made climbing into the RV a piece of cake, but it was definitely doable and will get easier with practice.

We've set a new goal:  on Monday we will go down to the beach area and scope out the 3 campgrounds -- get a feel for the lay of the land to determine which has spots that newbies can get into, especially if the pull thrus are not available -- and hope to move out of the driveway on Tuesday.  The only reason we stayed here was because I couldn't climb, but since that's not an issue now, there's no excuse to take advantage of my in-laws kindness any longer.

Moving forward and for the long term, I will need to rely heavily on Mitch for all the bending, and that will include mopping and vacuuming, and getting things out of bottom drawers (including my clothes), as well as lifting the 20 lb step stool every time I need to get in and out of the truck.  Small stuff in the scheme of things.

On another note, I had to go to a vascular dr. today for an ultrasound to check for blood clots.  Thank God everything is fine.  Therapist noticed how very swollen my foot is (normal after surgery) and that I have a small, painful bruise on my ankle, so they just wanted to verify all is ok.  Afterwards, another first since this whole ordeal, we went out to eat lunch at IHop.  I brought my cushion along but was able to sit for a little while.  Tomorrow night we have plans to see a theater show (Rocky Horror) and Sunday plan to have a nice dinner out with Fred & Twila.  Hopefully I will be up to all this sitting.

Day 50 of the Journey - Lynn Haven, FL

Milestone day!  With the guidance of the therapist, I was able to climb the steps into the CoW.  In fact, it was harder getting over to the steps, which are on very uneven grass with a few trenches, than it was to climb the steps themselves.  She also helped me practice sitting and getting up off the recliner (need to use my hard cushions) and kitchen chair.  The commode fits over the toilet but not in the shower, so I'll just have to be careful standing (or have a friend join me in there!).  Next step is to buy a step stool on which I can turn my body around in order to climb into the Bull.  I think there's a really good chance we'll be able to move to a campground within the week.

Day 47 of the Journey - Lynn Haven, FL

Had my first in-home therapy session yesterday, which was really more of completing the obligatory paperwork and doing an assessment.  Mostly I was just given a few exercises to do (all the same that were given at the rehab center).  We didn't even go outside to the truck or RV, although the therapist did go out there with Mitch to take a look.  She is scheduled to return Mon., Wed & Fri (actually a different person as she only works weekends).  I'm certain that tomorrow I will be taken outside so we can assess my abilities.  I have a feeling that perhaps I am being way too optimistic about being ready by next weekend, but we shall see.  I'm not going to push it.  I'll just continue to work out until I reach my limit (which is beyond what the therapist gave me to do) and keep growing stronger.  When the time is right, I will know it.  I'm sure God has a reason for all these obstacles since June, and when He deems the time is right to hit the road, I'm sure I'll learn about it then.

Day 45 of the Journey - Lynn Haven, FL

Note the change from Panama City back to Lynn Haven!  I was released from the rehab hospital today and am back at Fred & Twila's house. 

I can't believe it's only been a little over 10 days ago, when I was lying in bed crying because I wanted life to return to "normal" (as if there's such a thing). All my movements were made in fear that I would dislocate again and I wanted my movements to be part of the healing process instead. I need to give thanks to God, and to family and friends for their prayers and support to help me reach this day, which has finally arrived. Things are not quite normal yet, but I am well on my way; certainly now in the healing phase.  I'm hoping it can be as early as next weekend.

It's unclear what will happen after that.  I'm certain that I will be changed from home health care to outpatient PT.  In order to go to the rally in Sept in Goshen, IN, we would need to leave FL in 3 weeks.  To get to Raleigh by the High Holidays, we'd need to leave in 4 weeks.  As of today, I think both are a little ambitious and I'm also not sure how far along in PT I'll be.  Currently we are exploring spending the holidays in Myrtle Beach, SC which is a lot closer and thus buys us a little more time.  There's also a driving school 2 hours south of there (Charleston, SC).

Anyway, as plans tend to be made in jello, this will definitely be something we'll need to play by ear as the time gets closer. Right now focusing on doing my exercises to gain strength and balance.

Mitch's Update. Day 41

Just a quick update for dear wifey since she's plumb tuckered out from OT/PT.

First, she was doing a fantastic job from post surgery (last wednesday) to Friday.
On Friday morning, at first hospital, she walked 150 feet in her walker, and did very good.

When she got to rehab hospital on Friday, they said she couldn't get up and use a walker till she had a PT evaluation.  Sat, she had a partial evaluation, and they gave her a walker, but with a nurse required restriction.

Sat nite, and sunday we walked about 100 feet, once in the morning, and once at night.

Today (Monday) big day first day of PT/OT (Physical Therapy/Occupational Therapy)
Heavy schedule.  2 OT sessions in morning, and 2 PT in afternoon.

In the morning, she was brought to a kitchen, and the OT took a shelf of different foods and put them on the counter, and said, please clean and reline the shelf after you clean them, and put food back.

And, to be extra "mean", he asked her to pick up the sugar wrappers on the floor. (using her grabber).
100%, she did a great job.

This afternoon the PT just had her roll her wheelchair by herself (the gym is SO far from the room, they make them all use a wheelchair, so they dont just tire out going to work out) about 300 feet.

She complained to me that it was exhausting, and she needed to rest just from that task.  The PT then told her he wanted to test her stamina, and see how she handled adverse tasks.  Needless to say, my dearest passed with flying colors!

When he was done having her work out, he also (again) had her wheel (partially) back to the room.  He then gave her a few tests to see if she could get into/out of bed by herself and she again passed, and was awarded a coveted pink "self ambulatory" to bathroom upgrade.

And yesterday, as Cheryl and I were discussing when I should start taking jobs again, my phone rang, and of course, it was a POS (point of sale/register) repair down at Panama City Beach at a Gap store.
So I took the job.  Now have jobs booked Tuesday and Wednesday, so that's a good sign.

Cheers to all, and watch for a update shortly from THE BOSS! (no NOT bruce!)

Day 39 of the Journey (Shabbat) - Panama City, FL

Today was really not the day of rest I had hoped for, as it was my first day in PT and OT (physical and occupational therapy).  They started at 8:00 and ended around 3:00, with a few breaks in between.  The pain is very great, but as they say, "no pain, no gain" and at least they are very generous when it comes to giving out pain medication.  All in all, the therapists think I am doing fantastically well and predict I will be released a little early.  What needs to be decided is next steps when I am released -- do I attempt to learn to live in the RV if I'm able to climb the steps by then or do I continue in the safety of the house first?  (I will be required to have either outpatient or in-home PT anyway).  If the RV, we will need to move to a campground so that we have full hookups; it will be very difficult for Mitch to move it out every 3 days to dump the tanks and I'm not sure running into the house all day just to use the bathroom is a practical solution.  I guess we'll see how things progress over the next few days.  Meanwhile, the plans of going to the rally are getting farther and farther away.  I think it really may be a bit too overambitious to try to make it there so soon.  Makes more sense to make our way slowly up to Raleigh instead, where we planned to park until the end of the year anyway.  Again, time will tell.

Day 38 of the Journey - Panama City, FL

I suppose I could view today as the next location on the journey -- I was moved from the hospital to a full service rehab facility (just a few blocks away).

Based on my posting from last week - about how every stop we make along the way has a purpose - this one is very well defined and probably the biggest stepping stone between having the surgery to correct the problem and getting back on my feet and resuming living in our home on wheels and traveling.  It is at this stage where they will work me very hard in relearning all the movements I've come to take for granted; things like getting out of bed, using the toilet and shower, getting in and out of a car, even just walking.  I expect to be here 7-10 days and then we shall see what happens next.  But for now, this step of the journey is all about growth and recovery.