Day 16
Slept in the recliner last night as I fell asleep watching TV and my fiancée didn't want to bother me.  I told her that because of events we are physically separate and sleeptime is the only time I get to feel her skin next to me.  This is important to me
The pain was at a very low level this morning and I expected it to be very stiff upon getting up but surprise!!  I went outside to sit for awhile then got up and with my fiancée went down 3 steps using crutches and the railing.  This was the 1st time in my yard since July 22nd.  Wow!  I could see the fungus on 1 of my aromatic bushes.  I picked a couple of grape tomatoes and jalepenos.  By this time the discomfort in the thigh had increased some so after going inside I used 1 crutch and a railing and went up & down the 13 steps to the upstairs.  It was time to recline but I felt so much better.
This appears to be a good time , regardless of the recent clot, as the pain is subsiding and I feel more normal.  My head is clearer, and I feel it is time to take a more active role in returning to function.  The shift in attitude and symptoms is incredible.  This is what I was hoping for.  Thank God
I can now begin to think of what I need to do down the road because for the 1st time since surgery, in my mind, at least, there is a down the road.
This is what I hope others will see during their 1st days or beforehand.  It takes time but the light is there.