Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Well, it's finally time. It seemed like such a long time ago when I was coaching 5th grade girl's traveling basketball and decided that my surgery was going to be in May instead of January. It's been a long couple of weeks, but with school finally done for the semester and everything set in order, I am ready.

I can't tell you how great Joel has been through all of this. I have been a nutcase the last few days (or longer :/) and he has put up with rants about all my fears and doubts and craziness. I broke down today and all he did was put his arms around me and remind me things will be fine and that he (and my parents and everyone else) is always there for me. It's been hard trying not to dwell on all the bad stuff that has happened with the previous surgeries, but he helps me focus on how much better this one will go. Just to let everyone else now how amazing he is; I went to a bachlorette party this past Friday... When I woke up on Saturday, I found the house to be spotless and the dining room and living room were arranged so I could navigate with my crutches without having any problems. Needless to say I was touched and couldn't help but cry with happiness at how lucky I am to have such a man. I even woke him up at 1:00 am when I came home and he didn't complain at all (and he had to work at 6!)!!!!

My parents, as always, have been rock-stars too. The last four surgeries I lived at home and my mom and dad both went through the bad times with me and they were troopers. I think every parent can relate to feeling pain and sympathy for your child, but still needing to be strong for them even when they hurting almost as much as the child. I know my parents would do whatever it takes to keep me happy and healthy, even if it means compromising their own strength. You can't ask for more than that. I am a little nervous to not have my parents in the same house (although Joel will be great and my parents are only a text away), but I am glad they get a break from me being hurt. They have been through the good, bad, and the ugly with me, so it is time they get a little rest. ;)

To my foundry family - you are the best. The support and well wishes from every co-worker has kept me strong. I don't care what people say about the foundry, some of the best people I know are employed there. It honestly is my home away from home and they (everyone) are like a family to me. I couldn't ask for a better work team with Annette and Kim. Kim has been wonderful, giving me the time off I need and the support of a true friend and boss. Annette has kept my spirits up and been my rock for the last year. They are both incredible women, role models, and friends and it means the world to me.

Last, but certainly not least, thank you to EVERYONE who has sent kind words, heartfelt prayers, and kept me in their thoughts. This blog was not meant to attract sympathy or worry anyone, just a way to keep my head clear, but the support from everyone has been incredible. It is easier to go through tough times when people are rooting for you.

This surgery will go great and I have complete faith in my surgeon and medical team. I will be posting pictures and keeping everyone updated as often as I can. Thank you again to everyone. I love you all :)

Pictures of the clean house!!!

Had to take some before pictures also! The transformation is kind of creepy when my muscle starts dying from me not using it. Haha sorry for the leg shots.