Two weeks post-op and other stuff

Well here we are...two weeks post-op. The hard cast is gone (thank goodness), the stitches are out, and a walking boot has been fitted. It has definetly been a very long two weeks. I've never had to walk on crutches before, so thats been a learning experience in itself! Though I haven't fallen, I have had some close calls and definetly some "ouch" moments. Kicking the step on my way down to the sunken living room was not a smart move on my part. And its a good think our entertainment center in the living room is just the right height that I can lean on it and not topple over. All in all it's really gone pretty well. I talked to the doctor on Friday and am now the proud owner of two compression staples and a pin, one staple right below the nail on my big toe and one staple and a pin about two inches below the base of my toe in my foot. I'm very surprised but it doesn't hurt at all! The only pain I have is not being able to do what I want! I'm a pretty active person and sitting still is really not my cup of tea. Having to have someone else do things for me is also not something I enjoy. I'm a pretty independent person and when I can't do something it makes me very angry. So, I guess I'll ride it out until I can get around on my own again...which can't come soon enough! As for the last couple of weeks on the home front, we've gotten to enjoy fresh veggies from the garden quite a bit. There is nothing better then a fresh tomato still warm from the sun! The eldest son will be turning 14 at the end of the month, but has to return to Minnesota next weekend so we bought his birthday present early. Somehow he talked us into a hamster. It is a cute little thing. I just hope he doesn't escape. The weenie dog doesn't take to kindly to furry creatures off any sort. She seems to think it is her duty to save us all from anything that has fur. Thank goodness the greatest Dad ever lives in our house so he can take care of the little creature until the son returns for a visit. School will be starting soon, so school supplies were bought. Wow!! I was not prepaired to spend $250 on just supplies!! That doesn't include book fees, band fees, chorus fees, PE clothes, tennis shoes, or school clothes! And that was only for 3 of the 5 children! I understand it's all items they will be using all year long, and yes I probably should have saved a little before so I would have extra money to spend but I didn't. This is not something new to me, I have a junior this year. But every year it floors me how much we are required to spend. And book rental fees!! I do understand the need for the schools to be compensated for my child using their materials. But if I pay $75 just for a book rental fee, then please give my child books! That's not including a $30 school activity fee (required of all students whether you attend any sporting events or not), or any band or chorus fees (which were apparently waved this year). Last year fees for two students was well over $300. I guess I shouldn't complain. They are getting an education, the teachers are WELL under paid, and I know there are people who don't get the opportunities that other children get. It just frustrates me that I pay book fees for books they either don't receive or don't get to bring home! I'll stop complaining and be very thankful for my wonderful, intelligent, caring, goofy children!