August 9, 23 Days Post Surgery

 This is actually from yesterday (the 8th). Everything looks normal from outward appearances. I will soon post some side by side before and after shots. I am still a bit swollen on my right side, but nothing anyone can really see. My right side is still numb and so are my top lip, top teeth, and palette. I have pulled a few of my stitches out; the doc said they should all come out by the 3rd week. However, my lip still has more dealing to do, and that stitch is not quite ready to depart. The orthodontist said everything looked really good, my bite has now closed-apparently it was a bit open last week, but he was pleased with how it looked yesterday. I was also permitted to go from 24/7 rubber bands, to after dinner through next morning. This has reduced my pain level quite a bit. Now, the worst pain is at least after work.

The surgeon says to continue no chewing through Aug 28, and a "more normal" diet as of Sept. 16. After Aug 28 I can have things such as pasta, eggs, ?? Being on a liquid diet is very challenging and makes it really hard to work. It is quite a task to keep up the energy level I need to function at work; therefore, this first week back has largely consisted of half-3/4 days. I worked all day yesterday, and was thoroughly exhausted today. But, I do feel much stronger each and every day! Yay!!

It was suggested to me that I try chia seeds, as they expand in your stomach to make you feel full, and are full of omega-3 fatty acids. As soon as I make it to the health food store, I plan to snatch up some of these little goodies and give them a try.

Only 7 days until Edisto, South Carolina!! Cannot wait. Sunshine, heat, humidity-here I come!

August 4, 18 Days Post Surgery

Eighteen days away and I am doing well. As you can see the right side is still a bit swollen; however, I am feeling pretty good. The rubber bands I have to wear are not pleasant at all, and I am usually in a lot of pain first thing in the morning from wearing them all night, and also sleeping (accidentally) on my side. I am still taking ibuprofen pretty regularly; I just cannot bear the pain without it yet. 

At least I have felt like working outside this past week. I am redoing a hutch my friend Kelly gave me! I am painting the inside red and the outside white, and will also distress it a bit afterwards to give it that antique look. I usually can only paint 2-3 hours a day, and then I am pooped, but I have accomplished a lot! Here is a BEFORE photo of the hutch:

 

Sorry for the poor quality of my iphone pics. It is not the latest and greatest! 

I go back to work Monday. Not too thrilled about it, but I must do it! I am concerned about having the stamina and energy I will need to keep up and not make mistakes! We'll see what happens! 

I go back to the orthodontist on Monday and I really hope he tells me I do not have to wear the bands, but I know that is just not going to happen. My teeth are not in correct alignment yet, so the bands will probably be an extension of me for quite some time unfortunately. 

On a brighter note, our trip to Edisto is coming right up and I am really excited! I cannot wait to be in the hot humidity and bake in the glory of the beaming rays of the sun. Not to mention I will get to see my family for the first time in a year! I really think it is time we headed back down south for good!