I took Red out in the pasture and we dug the sheep out of the pole barn, lambs and all, and moved them to the side pasture, where Red did some of his zippy come byes and aways. I love doing this with him, but I almost got knocked over and realized I’m really not ready for it yet, between holding the camera and moving around in the sun – it just wore me out. I had to sit down for awhile and close my eyes.

I’ll wait a few weeks before trying it again. I’m learning every day what I can and can’t do. Yesterday I walked five miles easily and comfortably, but that doesn’t mean I can do the same thing today. My heart is different every single day, there are no two days the same, recovery does not happen on a straight trajectory. This Thursday I go back and see my surgeon in Albany, I hope she lets me drive again. Maria and I are thinking of driving to Williamstown, Mass. for some Thai food and maybe a visit to one of the museums there. I think I’m up for it, Connie Brooks from Battenkill Books made some dinner for us and is dropping it off at the house.

We much appreciate that, those small gestures make a big difference, we are both sometimes overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness and love of people. I find I am very emotion these past couple of days, small things get to me, lots of strong feelings bubbling up inside of me. Maria is exhausted, we are focused very much on resting this weekend. I feel like I’ve been resting for a month but my fitbit tells me I have walked nearly a hundred miles since July 4, the day I came home from the hospital. Interesting.