FROM CAREN

Yesterday we had a man at our house named "Mike". Mike installed railings for us on both sides of the stairs that go upstairs to our second floor - what a Godsend. He also went and purchased and installed the handles in the upstairs and downstairs shower. He is fixing our screen door Monday.... and helping out with so much. We are trying to find ways to reimburse him in ways he has requested and deserves. My mom is paying him - which in and of itself has been a miracle. We have a lot more that needs done. It bothers me I am not able to go back to work to help pay to get more things fixed that we are in desparate need of have completed....but my trust and hope and belief is that we will be able to reimburse those who have helped us in the past and most recently....and hire for the work that still needs done.

This man.......He is both generous in spirit and an excellent construction worker so if anyone needs something done I would gladly refer him, as he has a family to support as well and could also use the money. His integrity has been amazing and I just want to share what an angel he is. His bids are fair. He is a true gift to the world and I am eternally grateful. Did I mention what a gifted Carpenter he is?

I am hoping we will find a way to be creative enough with our funding to have other important things done around the house and bless this many and others with payment for their help. 

I need to get better to get back to work so I can pay a lot of these things forward. There's a lot I need to do and I continue my new life's journey, but first I must get stronger.

I walked up those stairs last night with just a spotter. I felt so brave because even with my crushing headache and dizziness - I was very brave!!!!

I have to walk 375 steps or more a day to keep from getting the blood thinner shot which prevents clots from me being in a hospital bed a lot of the time. So the day before yesterday, I did 450, and yesterday 400. This is no small attempt and is exhausting to me as I walk in circles of our whole first floor. I was proud of the rails that helped me get upstairs to sit in the wheelchair. 

The pain was bit more to deal with as I tried to keep up on my therapy recommendations and exerted myself a LOT. I even got a shower and was able to get in with my good hand thanks to Mikes hard work - I stood up and held on to both rails in the shower. The first time I have been able to stand in the shower since my wreck. I still needed help bathing, but at least I could stand.....but I think almost all my showers need to be in the downstairs bathroom that has the shower chair, because I am not quite ready for this part of standing .. Maybe upstairs on my stronger better days and downstairs until I get better and stronger - either way - I am still home. 

That means more than anything.