First steps

 My knee replacement is done and healing is under way. It has put a temporary crimp in my business, and photography for pleasure too. I succeeded in completing all my obligations before going under the knife, in fact, a final client order was delivered by my lab while I was in surgery. Now I am trying to take time for myself. Rick is keeping track of my many medications and encouraging me to keep up with my exercises. Progress is steady and faster than I expected.

In the mean time, fall is happening outside. The two young maple trees we planted a couple of years ago are turning red. This is normally a signal for me to take my camera for a walk through the neighborhood to photograph the changing trees. The walking trail to the south of my home puts on a fine show each year. This year, my excursions will be more limited but that doesn't mean I can't appreciate the beauty of the season. This morning, the local turkey clan hung out in the back yard. They are frequent visitors and always fun to watch. I took some pictures with my cell phone. 

This afternoon, Rick suggested an outing to the County Center, a couple of miles away, where there is a paved walking track with benches at regular intervals. We broke out the "Rollator" which I had not used before. A Rollator is one of those four wheeled walkers with a little seat. You see them everywhere, but I had no idea they had a special name! It was a perfect fall day-sunny with clear blue skies and a snap of cold in the air. I took some more cell phone pictures as we walked. I made it to the second bench where we stopped to rest and enjoy the fresh air. Then we slowly made our way back to the car.

It was good to get outside for a beauty break. Once my knee is fully healed and the physical therapy is done, I will be able to get back to work photographing portraits and events. I will also get back to hiking and photographing for pleasure. I remember the difference my first knee replacement made, 12 years ago. With two good knees, the world will open up to me again!