Image: Purple Flower, 2010, Vicinity of Bertram, Tx.
Those of us who, though too young to have attended in person, were born when the memory of Vaudeville was still alive, easily remember W. C. Fields. Today his comedy probably seems trite to the jaded ears of the younger generation. Though certainly not a prude in speech, his comedy, along with his arch "nemesis" Mae West, was generally filled with innuendo, sly double entendres and slapstick goofiness. You had to be there. For those of us who at least knew from a distance we are glad that we were. Laughing was easier then and generally the drinks flowed more cheaply.
One of W. C. Field's most memorable lines was, the title above is a variation, "On the whole, I would rather be living in Philadelphia." This was the epitaph that he said he wanted for his tombstone. It pretty much sums up his humor. He was a native born Philadelphian but he poked fun at that city all his life. His remark kind of sums up his attitude about being somewhere he didn't want to remain for long.
I suppose I could say that about today, the beginning of my second week of living with my new hip. I'm OK... but on the whole....!
I ought to go through the checklist I suppose:
Progress: significantly improved mobility and range of motion (X), absence of serious pain, either at rest of in motion (X), grumpy but persevering, optimistic attitude (X), doing my exercises (X).
That pretty much describes the overall assessment. However, the booklet that Orthopedics gives you to guide you through recovery makes some interesting observations. (1) - your energy level declines throughout the first month - oh joy... I already feel like a worthless slob. (2) Sleep will be very difficult for the first 3-4 weeks - yep... if it gets any worse I'll stare out the window all night long just to freak out my neighbors. (3) Constipation - don't even go there... the stuff they give you at the hospital pretty much useless (4) muscle soreness that renders it almost impossible to get comfortable (see sleep problem above) - yeah - that also.
So... it ain't bad... but.
I very much appreciate the kindnesses shown to me by folks these past 7 days. I hope to repay them in the future. Just know you are beloved and valued friends (and a few relatives here and there).
Still very hard for me to sit at by big computer and do the kind of work that would make this "down time" less objectionable. I'll get out things, like this an a couple of other things I want to post as I can muster resources.
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