“I want a filthy hamburger.” And today, following a great appointment with the surgeon, that’s exactly what he got! Here’s the photo to prove it.

It has been a little over five weeks since Tim’s surgery and today he was cleared to start driving, to increase his activity, to start enjoying some public outings and to start working from home next week. Everything is going well and Dana’s kidney seems quite happy in her new home.

Dana is doing fantastic. She’s back at work and resuming all her regular activities as if a major organ wasn’t even yanked out of her body on August 19. She did express concern that her former kidney is probably missing salads and fruit. I assured her I am getting as many plant-based foods in my husband as I possibly can.

Tim’s house rest has been a relaxing respite for him. A limited number of visitors have come by and lots of cards full of encouragement, love and support (and corny jokes – thanks Phyllis) poured into our mailbox. He has enjoyed watching episodes of old television series like Perry Mason and Mission Impossible, some movies that have been on his list, and has been mostly enjoying college football season and the Cardinals run toward the MLB playoffs.

Since surgery, the journey has been pretty smooth. There have been a few little hiccups including an emergency room visit, the incision hematoma and a follow-up ultrasound. The nurse this morning, appropriately named Hope, said he is doing really well and looks great. The most important thing is that he truly feels good and is energized. He is “very low risk” right now but flu season is when we will need to have heightened awareness of exposure to germs.

He will be making his debut at First Presbyterian Church this coming Sunday. Friends from his men’s Bible study group have so graciously and generously given their time to drive him to appointments when I wasn’t able to because of my teaching schedule. He’s excited to be back in worship.

Today was a big day for us! The journey continues and we are ready for the adventures ahead.  For me, that first adventure is a return to Cushing for my 40^th high school reunion this Saturday. Go Tigers!