1 Week Down!

 
It's hard to believe that a week ago today I was undergoing surgery.  (And it's only been 4 weeks since I received my initial diagnosis.)  I have been sleeping so much that time has taken on a bit of a surreal feel.   I have been getting stronger each day and am now able to get up and down, walk unaided (although a bit hunched over), and have even navigated the steps by myself.  My pain is manageable, although I am definitely feeling the difference without the catheter that was removed on Saturday and the transition away from he narcotic pain medicine to ibuprofen.

I am surrounded by reminders of the outpouring of love and support in my make-shift bed on the couch downstairs.  The meals, cards, flowers, gifts and most importantly the prayers and positive thoughts for us have made all of the difference in the world!    
  
Amelia left to go back to Boston yesterday.  She has been such angel to me, the kids and Tony.  I am sure having her here to physically walk these first few steps of this journey with us is just one of many blessings that God has in store for us all.  With that said, it was really hard to say goodbye this time.  She's entering the final semester of her senior year and will soon be entering into one of the most exciting and challenging transitions in her very special life.  She has turned into such a beautiful person and I pray that the Lord will continue to be by her side and send the Holy Spirit to her to guide and protect her. 

Tony's mother, Margaret (aka Gueli) and sister, Julie, arrived last night just as the most boring national championship game ever played was ending.  With Amelia gone, having Gueli here for this week as I continue to get stronger is truly a blessing!  special thanks to Julie for making the rainy drive up from San Antonio so Gueli can be with us!  

Elias turned 15 today-talk about time flying!  Gueli made us some world famous "Cleto Burgers" for dinner and was able to make run to the store to make sure we had presents and cake for a proper celebration.  Looks like his party with his friends will be delayed by a few weeks while I recover.  Tony came home with fever and body aches- and was promptly put to bed by Ellena once presents were opened.  Elias is lost in his new xbox game- I guess he'll reemerge soon enough!      

We are off to see Dr. Habash, our plastic surgeon around lunchtime tomorrow.  It's looking good for the final drain to be removed.  This should be an uneventful visit otherwise- just checking on the incision sites(yes there are several), and making sure I am healing as expected.      

Thanks to you all for your continued prayers and support.  I am slowly getting strong enough for short visits and conversations on the phone, although I am sleeping often and trying to keep the focus on healing right now.