Tuesday 13 January 2015

Hip Happity Hop … and I get to grow – how cool is that?! Hardwick makes a requested visit …



St Hilary’s Day has rolled around … another year has passed … and life is hip hip hipping forwards very fast.


African tea lights




I am hip-hopping off to hospital for a hip op on Saturday … it’s all go round here!  Birthdays where do they feature?  Hospital visits today – such is life, when they fast track you.





I suppose I could convert the rhyme: 

told on Friday
partied on Saturday
worried on Sunday
dusted on Monday
rushed on Tuesday … 
     ... just so you can’t think about getting a year older
or greyer!
moved furniture on Wednesday
dashed about on Thursday
panicked on Friday and ...
collapsed for op on Saturday


Dancer - hands on hips by
Antonio Canova 1812
I’ve been in some pain for a few years … decades … but as I’ve always played fairly serious squash – not at the top level, but next level down … and was always playing leagues, or different friends, or in tournaments … a hip problem?  No!


Anyway having exercised, tried various therapies, checked out my back – eventually I had my hip x-rayed early last summer;  it obviously wasn’t serious as I wasn’t called in and was happy to wait – I wanted to take Jenny (86) round England in October and to visit relatives etc


Saw the doctor after Jenny had returned to Canada, got sent off to the consultant – with the words … well you’re not taking pain killers and you can walk … my comment: well I need to know what’s happening -  I’m in pain and it’s getting worse.  The doc is not unsympathetic … and I don’t do pills, if I can avoid them ... and I cope usually – so I’m an 'unusual bird’.

My colourful sofa!!

Consultant’s visit – I eye the two hips on the x-ray screen: right one looks solid and nice, left one looks flaky and pittedly weak.  Brief discussion: it is congenital – I told him about my 67 years of life (as of today) – and how much squash I’d played and how I’d always been happy playing ball games – tennis in those early days. 


That seemed to stop him in his tracks … a brief silence ensued … his arm reached in his drawer, extracted a yellow form … sign here and we’ll give you a new hip.


Did you know, by the way your left leg is an inch shorter … and we’ll give you an extra inch!!  Yay – life improves I get taller – everyone else gets shorter!!  Sadly, I was brought back to earth … it balances out and it’s only half an inch.  Then when I had the early pre-assessment last year … I’ve already shrunk an inch – must be blogging … all the blame is on you lot?!


 
Fun wrapping paper -
present still to be opened!

Normally we are given 4 – 5 week’s notice … Friday I was rung up – by the time I rang back – the hospital lady, I needed to speak to, had gone for some lunch.  I was partying on Saturday and needed to go out to shop ... so said I’d be back by 3.45 or so …





Late Friday pm … would I like to have my hip op on 17th November … this somewhat non-plussed me … laughingly I said “November” … she, I think, was quite pleased I’d laughed … said "oh no January" … I said “Saturday”?  Yes – we operate on Saturdays.


So I’m going to the posg hospital – when I replied to the text message I’d had – of course I realised what posg meant: posh!
 
Hardwick resting ... 

So today is hospital visits and assessments … and chaos reigning … they only phoned me after lunch yesterday … so as I’m on my own – life is interesting to say the least … working out what’s needed.   Some things have slotted into place – others still need to.


Their system is different to the general hospital, and to the other private clinic (that does National Health work) that I have some information on … so now I need to adjust to the way their method of process works.


Hardwick's nose
This will be my last post for a while … I’d like to do the Ubuntu blog-hop if Michelle Wallace organises, and I thought there was something else, but brains are addled at the moment, then the A-Z theme reveal in March … so I may just quietly stay on the side-lines til the A-Z rocks around.


Give myself time to completely recover and get my hip working fully … and be ready for the future …

Hardwick with his Santa hat - Christmas 2010
in my mother's room

Betsy of My Five Men … asked about Hardwick, so he’s come out of retirement briefly … he needs some air … and it’s good to have him around for my birthday … and the many memories of him on my Mum’s bed for all those years.


Right that’s me done … I will happily hip off to sort this motley life out … and get the post up – so please go gently on me re commenting and being around … I’ll be here – but a break will do me good …



Mandela Apron


… the A-Z will kick me back into gear (hopefully not breaking the new hip!!) … and Ubuntu will remind us of who we are and what we should be embracing in life … “I am; because of you” or the Zulu word ‘Londolozi’ meaning “Protector of all Things”  - my post ishere, which includes a TED talk.




Hip hip hooray to me … and to all of you for nurturing my blogging interests … I might even be looking to get a little into FB and Twitter … now that will be a shock to one and all!


Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories

82 comments:

Optimistic Existentialist said...

Hilary I am sending you best wishes and positive thoughts for your procedure on Saturday!!!

Unknown said...

Yes, much love and wishes for a successful operation.

Jo said...

I have had a replacement hip since 2004 Hilary, makes such a difference. Matt has two hips and a knee, so I wish you all the best. I do hope you have someone to be with when you come out of hospital.

Happy Birthday, not sure whether that is a good birthday present or not. I think you will need to take pain pills for a while once it's done.

Out on the prairie said...

You will be missed and I hope all goes the best. Tell them you are there for the spa treatment also.

T. Powell Coltrin said...

Listen, it sounds scary, but EVERY single person I know that has had a hip replacement loves it. Their life has begun again. Let's face it, mobility which leads to independence is the best.

Betsy Brock said...

I just love Hardwick! He's much more handsome than I expected! Thanks so much for showing him off. I hope he sits by you during your recovery and cheers you up!

I think having your surgery date so quickly is a wonderful thing....no date looming at you in the future! It's all happening so fast you don't have time to worry! Best wishes and hope all goes well! xo

Betsy Brock said...

And...happy birthday!!!

Stephen Tremp said...

Happy Birthday to you Hilary! I am also a bit taller on one side. Sometimes I compensate and experience pain in my lower back because my gait is a bit off. Anyway, enjoy your week!

Patsy said...

Belated birthday wishes - and lots more good wishes for the op. The people I know who've had theirs done all felt it made a real improvement to their lives. I hope the same is true in your case.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

@ Keith – many thanks .. all will be well I’m sure!

@ Carole Anne – thanks for the check … lovely to hear from you.

@ Jo – I know I’m not worried … just sorting it all out when you’re by yourself takes a little extra work. All will be well I’m sure .. and yes it will be a good birthday present – a new lease of life …

@ OOTP – thank you so much … I’d love to stay there for the spa treatment and a few weeks sleep! Good idea …

@ Karen – it’ll be fine – just a little rushed .. but next week I’ll be home again! Yes I’m sure I’ll be better than new very soon .. bliss!!

@ Teresa – thankfully I’m not scared .. just like my ducks in order and then I’m happy! I’m getting ready for the next 1/3 of my life …

@ Betsy – so glad you love Hardwick .. he’s pretty special – unfortunately he’ll stay here and will be happy at home awaiting my return. I wasn’t worried .. just like to be a bit more organised!! Thanks for the PS birthday wishes!

@ Stephen – I think many people have different leg sizes etc .. and can believe it’d cause pain later on – hope you’re doesn’t worry you too much …

Thanks everyone .. just had some pre sessions at the hospital ... ready for the go on Saturday ...

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Wow, Hilary! At least you don't have a lot of time to worry about this. One of my tennis friends had hip replacement years ago and went right back to playing! Good luck and enjoy your vacation from blogging. Hope you will update your progress from time to time!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Happy birthday and will be praying all goes well with the hip. Take the half an inch.

Margie said...

Hilary, you will be in my good thoughts and prayers.
Good luck on the surgery, all shall be well.
You will be missed!!!

Lynn said...

I know a number of women with new hips and it has improved their lives greatly! I'm so glad you are doing it and will be thinking about you on Saturday. Please let us know how you are doing - maybe on facebook? Love your rhyme!

loverofwords said...

Thank goodness you don't have to wait for months. I heard that the new hip operation done from the front is much easier and the recovery much faster. Do your PT and you will be up and about in no time. I don't like to take any meds either, they make me dizzy, dizzy, dizzy every time. And. . .Happy Birthday, you will have many, many more.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

I hope the surgery goes as planned on Saturday. At lease you don't have to wait. Just get it done.

Murees Dupè said...

Happy Birthday! All the best with your surgery and your recovery. I will be thinking of you. Wishing you well.

Unknown said...

Yes, I hope you operation goes well. Well, you'll be a half inch taller.

Paula said...

Here's wishing you a very Happy Birthday. 67 years young! We are only separated by a few. Hoping you the best with your hip surgery and the recovery after. They do such wonderful things now with replacements and all. You will be back to blogging before you know it. In the meantime I shall miss you!

beste barki said...

Hilary, they do wonders these days. I have no doubts that everything will go well on Saturday. I wish you a smooth operation and a speedy recovery. I will look forward to your next post.

Nick Wilford said...

Hope everything goes swimmingly and enjoy your break! You'll be back to the squash in no time.

Denise Covey said...

Hey Hilary! HAPPY BIRTHDAY! I know I said it on facebook, but you can't get too many birthday wishes, can you? I'm glad you partied while you can, ole girl, as it looks like you're going to be a bit of a hipster! I hope the op goes swimmingly and that you don't experience too much pain. My dad had it done and it gave him a new lease on life. I'm sure you will be well recovered and able to participate in blog activities very soon. You have a lot of friends thinking/praying of/for you.

Denise :-)

H. R. Sinclair said...

Happy Birthday. Take care and rest up so you can get better soon.

Sharon Himsl said...

Hilary, sending positive prayers, thoughts, smiles and hugs your way. I'll be thinking of you, and Happy Birthday too! I know you didn't figure on a new hip, but this may be your best birthday in a long time. Get plenty of rest and exercise (I hear that's part of the recovery) and hope to see you in the A-Z if not sooner!

Rosaria Williams said...

You will have nothing but energy and spun to play tennis/squash for the next forty years. For sure. You may not want to give up blogging however. Blogging is the perfect stay _put sport!

Romance Reader said...

Hi Hilary,

All the best for your operation. The best part-you will be painfree,

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

@ Monti – well I have a lot of time to worry about getting organised … total chaos ensuing – but Saturday will arrive very shortly! I’ll be around .. and I’m sure I’ll keep the blog updated …

@ Alex – I’ll take the half an inch .. and I grew one quarter of an inch apparently between the two assessments!! Thanks.

@ Margie – thank you so much … I doubt you’ll keep me away for long …

@ Lynn – I’m sure life will be distinctly easier - I needed it done, now I know there’s something wrong! Delighted you enjoy the rhyme …

@ Nat – well I wasn’t worried re the wait … so I’m lucky with my take on life … Also the hospital visit reassured me even more yesterday … so I’m sure all will be very well by this time next week!!

@ Diane – many thanks … I think it will and it’s rocked around quite quickly .. as you say: it’s being done!

@ Murees – many thanks … and for the thinking of me …

@ Clarissa – I know: all of half an inch taller! And able to stand upright for the first time …

@ Paula – yes it is amazing what can be done now … and how they do the procedures … I’m sure blogging will pull me back in …

@ Beste – thanks so much … it will be an interesting experience … and update will be forthcoming …

@ Nick – I doubt the squash will start again .. but it will be great to know I can get around without any pain in the future ..

@ Denise – thanks so much – and no I can’t get too many birthday wishes .. always happy to get them!! It was a wee party … this time of year is not good for other things! I’m sure I’ll be running around very happily again in a few weeks … and yes – lots of friends with wonderful thoughts around …

@ Holly – I shall rest up and recover my wits so I’m ready for this time next year!

@ Sharon – thanks so much – well I’m just grateful to know there’s something wrong and it can be fixed … and yes: rest, and exercise .. then I’ll be right as rain again.

@ Rosaria – 40 years more .. that’s stretching it just .. playing squash or tennis in that time .. is unlikely – but who knows. That’s what I think … blogging could be done for 40 years more .. whether the body will handle it or not is another matter!

@ Nas – thanks so much .. pain free will be bliss …

Cheers to you all and thanks so much for your thoughts and best wishes .. Hilary

David P. King said...

Oh no! I didn't know you were having problems there. Sending you all my healing vibes so you can make a quick recovery. :)

Inger said...

Hilary, Happy Birthday! And with a new hip, you will not only gain some height, you will feel like a brand new woman. I will keep you in my thoughts on Saturday. Your support this past year has meant a lot. I will miss your blog, it is always so interesting.Take care and all the BEST! -- Inger

LD Masterson said...

Happy birthday. Hope the surgery goes smoothly and the recovery quickly. Best of luck.

Roland D. Yeomans said...

You will have the thoughts, prayers, and the love of all your blog friends with you, tugging you towards recovery each day. Heck of a birthday gift: a hip surgery!! The body is a marvelous mechanism with so many processes within it geared for self-repair. I will pray for you daily!

Crystal Collier said...

I've heard hip replacements are one of the hardest surgeries to recover from, but knowing you, you'll do it brilliantly. I'm wishing you a perfect procedure, quick recovery and TONZ of cheese to carry you through. (And happy b-day!)

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

A life-long athlete like you will recover in a hurry. Hip replacement is supposed to be easier than knee, especially if you were still active going into it. My brother in law had his done and was back on the golf course in a few months. He feels so much better. Let us know how you're doing and Happy Birthday.

Sara said...

I send you my best wishes for a fast recovery so you can get back to that squash game sooner. Just think, with the new hip you might even move up a level, especially since you didn't even realize you even had a congenital problem. Sounds like your body knows how to adjust and therefore, I'm confident it will do the same with the new hip.

Take all the time you need to recover. We'll still be here when you come back:~)

p.s. a belated Happy Birthday to you.

M Pax said...

I hope it all goes well, Hilary. will send you heaps of positive energy for a quick recovery. Happy Birthday and hugs.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

@ David - always have had but now I know what it is .. I can get it fixed – thanks for the vibes!

@ Inger – I think the brand new woman thing is on the cards yes!! I’m just so glad I’ve helped you recently – life is never easy .. and we can be here for others. Thanks re your thoughts on the blog … and I will take care!!

@ LD – appreciate your thoughts .. quick recovery I hope – but sensible one too.

@ Roland – the blogging community is great isn’t it … and I really appreciate all the support everyone is showing. I know heck of a birthday … fast tracked hip! I feel very positive about the whole process … and am so grateful for your thoughts.

@ Crystal – I gather women’s hips are easy to do and to recover from … sounds like it to me – anyway I’m sure I’ll be in the healthy mode again soon. TONZ of cheese – yes please …

@ Susan – thanks .. the physio implied I’d already been using my leg similarly to what I’ll need to do once recovery sets in … I’ve been protecting it for so long. Yes I gather it’s much easier than a knee.

@ Sara – I don’t think squash will be on the cards now – that little ball doesn’t bounce! But I’ll be very grateful to be able to walk around confidently again. Yes the physio mentioned I’d been protecting my hip and similarly would do for the new one.

I know it’s great how the blogging community is always there and always so welcoming back … and thanks for the b’day wishes … that went in a blur!!

@ Mary – appreciate the positive energy thoughts …

Thanks everyone – 2 days now! I’ll be fine – the hospital visits were very encouraging … so all will be well – just heaps to do between now and then!! Cheers Hilary

Empty Nest Insider said...

Happy Belated Birthday, Hilary! I'm sorry you've been in pain for so long. I've heard only great things about hip replacement surgery, and you are wise to do it sooner rather than later. I'm sure they'll take good care of you at the posh hospital. Will you also be going to a rehab facility? I know you'll be a great patient, and work hard at physical therapy. Sending lots of good
thoughts, and prayers your way, Hilary! You'll come out of this stronger than ever, while making lots of new friends at the hospital along the way!

Julie

bazza said...

Happy Birthday Hilary. We are the same age now! Good luck with the op. All the people I know who have had that op have been delighted with the results - please keep the sequence going!
CLICK HERE for Bazza’s fabulous Blog ‘To Discover Ice’

J.L. Murphey said...

I'm unfashionably late for the party. Happy birthday!
A hip replacement isn't too bad. Ask me, I had it done decades ago. The pain is short lived and pain no more. Especially compared to the rest of your life.

Rosalind Adam said...

Will be thinking of you. Hope all goes well and you're soon hopping about again once more. Squash is indeed a brutal sport. I have suffered since my 20s with a squash injury to my ankle. I now can't go walking without suffering a painful swollen ankle afterwards but there's nothing they can do for that. Take it slowly and be kind to yourself x

Chrys Fey said...

Happy belated Birthday, Hilary!!!

I'm a lot like you, I don't do pills and can take a lot more pain than other people can. Doctors often think I'm not in pain for the same reason. I am sending you positive vibes and prayers that your surgery and recovery goes well. Hugs!

helen tilston said...

Hello Hilary,
Wishing you a speedy recovery. I shall keep you in prayer. Enjoy your break from blogging but hurry back

Helen xx

Karen Lange said...

Happy Belated Birthday! I hope the rest of the week has been a good birthday stretch as well. :)

Wishing you a quick recovery. Will be praying for you. Will miss seeing you for a while, but know that you'll be thought of. Sending love and hugs your way!

dolorah said...

Oh my, I don't know if condolences are in order or if I should congratulate you on the unusual birthday gift. I hope all has gone well with the operation.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

@ Julie – it’s ok I’d grown used to the pain I guess! Now I know it’s my hip I’m really glad to get it done. No rehab .. I gather they send me out with two sticks … and a bit of follow up – so I’m sure all will be well … as you say lots of hard physio work to get my muscles working as they should.

Yes – I probably will meet a few new people … and I think it’ll be a fun helpful experience. I’m actually looking forward to it – today … panic mode with what needs to be done still!

@ Bazza – ah a twin .. just what I need. Thanks and I’m sure I won’t break that sequence … I’ll be up and about this time next week.

@ JL – no worries – good to see you. I know lots of people have had it done .. and I’m not at all worried … and then I have the rest of my life in a healthy state ahead of me.

@ Ros – I’m looking forward to being able to walk decent distances … squash I suspect is a game of the past! Thankfully I didn’t injure myself playing squash … I dented my tibia – thank goodness it didn’t break!

I’m looking forward to some rest and recovery time … and I will do what I’m told!!!

@ Chrys – I don’t know about the pain … but I am a get on with it girl: so I guess I can take more than others. I’m certainly not a complainer. Thanks so much for all your thoughts.

@ Beste – thanks so much .. and I’m sure recovery will be sensibly done! I expect fairly quickly …

@ Karen – well the rest of the week has been spent in quiet panic mode making sure things are organised here! If that’s remotely possible … Thanks so much … I shan’t be far away.

@ Donna … I sincerely hope not … I’m pleased I now know something is wrong and can get the surgery done to correct it.

Thanks everybody … tomorrow morning I shall be in the hospital! All well and I am looking forward to it … and after the first week I’ll be relieved … just those first few days home. Cheers and take care of yourselves while I’m away … Hilary

Lisa said...

I've known quite a few folks who have had hip replacements done and they've all turned out very well. One was on a friend who was 80 at the time! You couldn't keep him down! Another was in his 70s, he did very well with the surgery and he is doing very well two years later. I hope this works the same magic for you that it has for them Hilary. When I realized you had something going on, I was worried. I will send lots of healing thoughts your way, and even though we'll miss you, please don't worry about us, your blogging buddies, we will still be here waiting to hear how things went. Good luck and Happy Birthday!

Anonymous said...

Hi, Hilary. Looks like I'm a bit late in wishing you a HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Best wishes with your surgery on Saturday. You will be in my prayers.

Deborah Barker said...

Well I hope the new hip gives you a new lease of life Hilary - sounds as though you have earn it. I wish you a happy and a healthy New Year and if you get onto Facebook, let me know. Now, are you ready for you POSH hospital visit? I had a private op eighteen months ago and can say that it was like staying in a hotel. I hope your experience mirrors this. X

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

AND - @ Helen .. sorry didn't mean to miss you off!!!! ... I'll look forward to some rest and recovery and then will very happily return - thanks so much for your thoughts - Hilary

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

@ Lisa - I'm not at all worried .. just the suddenness of it - and I had things going on .. so couldn't just stop and turn turtle and get on with the hip stuff. I'm sure the hip magic will be well rubbed in and I'll be blog-jaunting around very soon. Nothing serious - just normal wear and tear after 67 years .. so thanks so much for your thoughts ... and delighted to know you'll be here on my return ...

@ Susanne - no worries .. not sure where the actual birthday went!! But all will be well tomorrow I'm sure ... I have positive vibes ...

@ Debbie - thanks so much - good to see you and I am on FB .. I'll try and activate that and TW ... no I'm not ready for the POSH hospital - lots to do .. and time is ticking by ..

Cheers to you all .. life is catching up with me .. darkness is almost falling ... and I have loads to do .. see you soon - Hilary

Susan Flett Swiderski said...

First off, a belated happy birthday to you! And what better gift than a shiny new pain-free hip? Good luck with your surgery and a speedy recovery. Hey, you'll be playing squash again in no time...

Take care.

Karen Jones Gowen said...

It was just a year ago my husband, only 6 weeks from having double knee surgery, and myself hopped on a plane to our new home in Guatemala. May you recover just as rapidly from your hip surgery and soon be hip hopping hooraying back in blogging land! A nice break until the A to Z Challenge sounds like a good idea, as you can focus on your physical therapy and healing from the surgery.

Julia Hones said...

Good luck with the procedure, Hilary.
Take care.
I like the picture of the dancer... Happy birthday!

Beate said...

Hilary, did I read that right, that it was your birthday on Tuesday? I wish you a very happy belated birthday. I hope you had a wonderful day despite all the things to take care of :)
And I'll keep my fingers crossed for tomorrow, I'll be thinking of you that all goes well and that you're out of the hospital and grown used to the new hip in no time so we can see you back here very soon. We'll all be waiting for you.
Lot of hugs and love,
Beate

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

@ Susan - thank you .. it was a different day! I know - great birthday present ... and only a few hours to go now. Thanks .. I doubt I'll be playing squash again - but a good walk without pain will be a pleasure.

@ Karen gosh - that sounds like good timing and all well planned. Knee surgery is much worse I gather .. so I reckon mine should be a piece of cake. I'll be hip-hooraying around again very soon .. thanks for the thought .. a few weeks recovery will be good - before I start up full time again. It's good to look forward to the A-Z ,,, exercise being the salient recovery action.

@ Julia - thanks so much .. glad you like the dancer ... I will take care ...

@ Beate - yes 'twas ever so - birthday and at the hospital - still all in a good cause: a new hip in a few hours time. The hospital stay I gather is short and sweet ... so will be home early next week. Then I can look at your wedding photos ... looking forward to seeing those.

Cheers everyone and thank you so much ... it's freezing down here today .. such is life - warm hospital will be welcome! Hilary

Juliet said...

Hi Hilary, here I am catching up at last after my big spell on an offline holiday, and you will already be reclining in your posh hospital bed! Never mind, I hope my good wishes and healing thoughts fly across the world to you, and that you rejoice in having a splendid new hip - and No Pain! Friends who have new hips seem pretty happy about it all.

Juliet said...

PS Love your rhyme!

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Happy Birthday, Hilary. My hubby's was yesterday. That should help me remember yours for next year. Ha, probably not. I will be thinking of you while you're in the hospital. Sending healing thoughts. Hope all goes well. Please take extra care and let us know how you're faring.

Nicola said...

Wishing you a fabulous birthday, Hilary. I wish you all the very best with getting your hip-hips sorted and hopefully your recovery will be speedy. Sending you lots of healing power across the airwaves. I'll be thinking of you.

cleemckenzie said...

Happy Birthday and here's to getting that hip back to full duty without pain. Thinking of you and waiting for your return.

Marja said...

Oh dear Hilary belated Happy birthday to you and take care I hope by now you are hopping around again with your new hip Probably not Take it easy for a while and I send you lots of healing thoughts. Big hug Ahoranui marja

Tara Tyler said...

take care of yourself, sweet lady! i've enjoyed combing back through your posts, of poems and wit and this one of your ailing saga - happy birthday MONTH! and relax!

Anonymous said...

Oh Hilary, Happy Birthday! I've been thinking about you for days, but haven't had even the briefest spare moment to turn on my computer, let alone blog, visit blog friends and spend hours at a time on it. Still, I kept you in my heart all day last Saturday, wishing you well while I emptied out the spare room for my daughter's visit. The little one is positively gorgeous, smiling at Grandma and even leaning toward me to get me to hold her when she's in someone else's arms. She giggles now too, cooing and being the most pleasant of children I've ever seen :) Such a sweet little voice she has!

My wishes for you are that your recovery is going much better than expected and you are able to enjoy your new hip to the fullest! It's a painful surgery, I'm sure, having known a few people who have had it. Still, it appears to be worth it having seen them with their new lease on life too. Take care of yourself and rest easy knowing the blogging world remains in tact, even if some of us aren't blogging quite as often these days. I'm being a bit long winded in this note...no real time for blogging today, but I did promise myself I wouldn't let today pass without wishing you well!

JJ said...

Happy Birthday to you, and my best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Susan Scott said...

Hillary hope it's all going wonderfully well. Your positive attitude will help enormously and have you hip hopping in next to no time. Belated birthday happy wishes. Be well be strong and patient. Give yourself good time to revover...

Jen said...

Hope all goes well with your hip and I will be happy to wait for your return.

Optimistic Existentialist said...

Just wanted to stop in and say that I hope the operation went smoothly!!

Vanessa Morgan said...

Happy belated birthday. I hope the operation goes well.

mail4rosey said...

You can blame blogging for shrinking a bit, and I'll blame it on my adding a couple of pounds that I'm now taking off!! :)
Happy Birthday wishes to you from me. And best of luck with the surgery and a smooth recovery!

PS That wrapping paper is fab! :)

Fil said...

Belated Happy Birthday Hilary - I hope the operation went well ... and look forward to seeing you back for the A to Z :)

Anonymous said...

Hilary, I hope your surgery went well.

I just wanted to let you know that you were being thought of and that I nominated you for the Very Inspiring Blogger Award. No pressure to participate as I know that you are taking a blogging break while you go through your recovery.
http://susannedrazic.blogspot.com/

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Thank you all so much for your thoughts - I'm out and all well .. Having a quiet weekend - been busy round here since getting out before lunch Tuesday, once on computer again - I'll answer more personally - cheers from a newly hipped up positive letter writer!!!

Sai Charan said...

Hilary, I'm glad to hear the surgery went well, I wish you a speedy recovery and lots of good health and sending you big hugs and positive vibes, take good care my dear friend, God Bless!!! :)

Anonymous said...

Hello, Hilary, I only just found this post. WordPress and Blogspot do not co-operate well. So glad you are replaced in the hip department. Look forward to seeing you on A to Z. Sue

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Thank you so much - for the good wishes - all seems to be well ... Sitting at the computer (PC) isn't very easy - but I'll make a plan anon. But I did get onto FB .. Also want to put a new blog post up some time soon - cheers for now -Hilary

Vagabonde said...

Hi Hilary, sorry to be late – I just started reading blogs again. I hope that you feel good now and have no pain. Wonderful progresses have been made in these types of surgeries so I think that you’ll get better and better in short order. Warm wishes for a very speedy recovery, VB

Margie said...

Hope you are doing well, Hilary.
Sending good thoughts 'across the pond'
Take care and best wishes for a speedy recovery ...

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

@ VB and Margie ...all seems to be going well - just plain tired!! to be expected I know.
Thank you - cheers Hilary

Julia Hones said...

Hi Hilary. I hope your surgery went well and that your rehab is even better!
Hugs.

Nilanjana Bose said...

Hi Hilary,

Hope the surgery went off well and wish you a pain-free and stress-free and above all, quick recovery.
Take care,
Best always,
Nila.

Optimistic Existentialist said...

Just wanted to stop in and say that I hope the surgery went well!!

Bish Denham said...

Hope you are healing nicely and are now out of pain. Sending healing thoughts and prayers your way.