I never know how to start an entry so I'll just do it! In July we went to Carlsbad, Ca for 12 day (it's about 450 miles; we drove but stopped half-way). Our condo (a timeshare exchange) was VERY nice with many amenities, a full kitchen, separate bedroom and an ocean view from the balcony. The resort had a work-out room my husband Jerry used daily, a great pool and it was easy for me to get around. I took my walker which worked great when I wanted to go to the pool. I used my cane when we went out for dinner. We were able to visit 3 couples we know, including my best girlfriend and her 4 children, one of which is my godchild. Two are college grads now, and two are in college. The oldest girl is married and we saw her and her husband. We were planning to go to their wedding in June 2006 but I had my stroke and ended up in ICU. The visit with them was the highlight of the trip for me. Jerry wanted to drive home straight-thru so I foolishly agreed. Needless to say, it was awful to be couped in a car for 7 hours, even with stops. My body (and mind) won't do it anymore. At least on an airplane you can stand up and down. It took me a few days to recuperate after we got home.

Since coming home I started working with a trainer with weights and machines twice a week. My left leg may not get better, but I say I will be the strongest lady in Tucson who has a bad left leg!! I am using my walker again at home; it helps with the gait. I use the cane when going in and out of stores, etc., which isn't all that frequently.

I was going to group pool therapy but the hospital stopped it. There is another place I need to look into but it has been nice not having to drive into town 2x/week. Don't get me wrong, I am grateful I can drive, and Jerry is elated!! :happydance:

I still get fatigued easy and need a nap every afternoon. But it is SO much better than 2 years ago when I needed to sleep the whole afternoon away. I have missed gardening (I cannot get up and down from the floor, cement, what have you without something or someone to hang onto) but I have done some planting in small pots which I have found very enjoyable. I put a piece of large plastic on my kitchen counter, get my small pots and plants out, Jerry gets me potting soil in a small bucket and voil