EpicTangent, thanks for the update. I'm glad to read that you are making progress with the plan. I hope experience and preparation makes the recovery easier. Onwards!

Oh wow, Epic, here's hoping all of that goes as smoothly as it can!!

In actual engagement ring news, the designers in Philly did exactly what I asked for, but it turns out, I'm a shitty jewelry designer. Who knew?

I have had this experience, and I hate it! Not with engagement rings, obviously, but I am a terrible designer! When I say what I want, it is never good! Feh.

Epic, I'm glad there's a plan in place -- it sounds promising!

What size (in mm) are you thinking for side stones, and what shape?

The sapphire is set horizontally (FB link: [link] ), so I was thinking a trillion cut shape. I'm bad on sizes, so I can confidently say I don't know at this point. (Wow, that picture is from 10 years ago; comparing it with today, that ring really really needs to be replated.)

Thank you for the update, Epic. It is good to be another step closer to the needed surgery. Do you have a sound support system for recovery? I know they will keep you in rehab until you are able to take care of yourself, but it will take some time and you don't want to rush things. I'm glad the bladder test was clear!

My recovery plan thus far is the same as after my first surgery. After I get released from the hospital, I'll stay with my dad and his wife for a week or so. Hopefully by then (probably 2-2 1/2 weeks post surgery) I'll be OK on my own at home. One of my friends offered to organize a meal train for me after the last surgery, but it ended up being unnecessary because one friend went MASSIVELY above and beyond doing meal prep for me (seriously, SO MANY MEALS). So I'm hoping to take advantage of R's meal organizing offer this time out. And I'm slowly reconciling myself to letting friends help me with the cleaning I'm not getting done. I've got one neighbor who I know I can call on in an emergency at home, and I should have Home Health Nurses at least a couple of times a week the first several weeks post-surgery. I have a note from one of my Doctors to allow me to work remote until the end of 2023. There's an outside chance that the new owners (my company got sold AGAIN last year) might have a problem with that (the official line is max 2 days per week remote), but I'm assuming since my Supervisor is OK with me working remote, no one else will cause trouble.

So, I guess that's a rough outline of a support plan for surgery recovery? It's tricky; I'm very used to being independent and self-sufficient. But I'm slowly figuring out ways to loosen up my death grip on the reins.

So many vibes to you, Epic. Expect a care package, and backchannel me anytime if you need to vent.

The stained glass kaleidoscope class is Saturday, and the instructor contacted me this evening to give me the address for the studio. I am 100% UNsurprised to find out it's literally 2 miles from my house. Because of course it is. I'm not complaining; this means I only have to figure in 5 minutes of travel time. I'm just amused because of course all the fun stuff is in Northside.

I mean, it could still be a Saw-type scenario (with bonus handicraft), but at least I won't have to drive very far for the horrors.

Thunder, lightning and hail in SF tonight.

Yes, the thunder startled me a bit. Flashbacks to East Tennessee summers.

It's tricky; I'm very used to being independent and self-sufficient. But I'm slowly figuring out ways to loosen up my death grip on the reins.

It sounds like you have a very good plan in place. I know it is hard to let others do for you, but your focus has to be on recovery, and doing too much can slow you down.

The stained glass kaleidoscope class is Saturday

That sound so interesting! I can't wait to see what you create.

So... weekend plans?

This afternoon I do the mani/pedi/leg wax treatment with my beloved SIL. She spoils me so. I'm thinking French because I am feeling light and Spring-like. I have a pale blue currently, which is nice, but I don't like it on my toes. My building has a Luau planned for tomorrow as a meet and greet social event. I'm looking forward to it, other than the deciding what to wear part. I think I am going with a tropical floral spaghetti strap dress, with pockets, because I care much more about comfort in an outdoor beachside activity than I do about people checking out my arm flab. Then Sunday my cousin and partner arrive for an undetermined amount of time. She has to fly back for work, maybe Wednesday, but he says he is staying until I kick him out. Which would never happen because we love his company. So today, cleaning all the things!!! (Why do I have pets? They really do make a mess.)