Before I launch into this topic let me remind everyone that I am almost 3 years post stroke, I was affected on my left side and I have done as much therapy as my insurance would allow. ( It always makes me sad when I have to quit.) I was lying in bed the other night just before falling asleep and I realized that my arm/hand and leg felt normal. No not "new normal", old normal! My arm and leg were straight and my fingers and toes were relaxed. Yea! This all changes as soon as I laugh, cry, sneeze or almost anything else. Personally I still think that new normal sucks.

I don't blog much about my deficits because I don't believe in dwelling on the negative. As someone else advised I have tried to use my anger and frustration to help me get better.

I'm so sorry to hear of survivors troubles with driving. I also drive and I always worry when I get behind the wheel. I don't usually go far and I still don't like to go out by myself.

I would like to thank everyone for their unending support and encouragement. I have been inspired to resume my home therapy. Without someone here reminding me to do my exercises it is very hard to force mysef to do them. I always have to remind therapists that most regular people don't exercise by themselves at home.

I will strive to have more of these "normal" moments or at least to recognize them and appreciate them.

I am (or was) a quilter and I would appreciate some advice on resuming sewing. I have done some and the two things I need help with are motivation and rotary cutting. I have found ways to cook and adapt to new techniques and to new equipment. I think my motivation problems might be due to the stroke. I heard that the right brain damage might affect creativity. As to the rotary cutting, I haven't found a way to adapt that is safe and retains accuracy.

So, for all of you out in blogland I wish you normal, new or old.

Marden