Renee and Lou visited early in the week. We went to Grumpy’s for breakfast. Renee ordered an avocado wrap that was new on the menu. I am definitely ordering it when I go back. After breakfast, we went to see my condo. Both Renee and Lou agreed that I would be very happy there. We spent the rest of the morning and early afternoon at Tim’s solving the problems of the world. I had a 2:30 doctor appointment for my hip/back so, they left when I left. It was really great having them visit. They are moving to Florida and leaving this weekend to start moving into their new home which is currently being built.

The PA examined me at the neurosurgeon’s office. Usually, I insist on seeing the doctor. However, this time, I was so happy to be able to see someone so quickly, I didn’t say a word. The PA was very good. She examined me and asked a number questions. She prescribed Prednisone in hopes that this would reduce the inflammation. She ordered an X-ray of the pelvis and hip. She also ordered an MRI for my lower back. I started Prednisone the next morning and had the X-rays taken. About the only negative thing that showed was mild osteoarthritis in the hip. Although osteoarthritis is serious, the key word was MILD. Two days later, I had the MRI. The report discussed every vertebra and changes. Basically, there was nothing different. I will call Monday to discuss what we do next. The Prednisone has helped the pain. It isn’t completely gone but it is better an localized to the groin and top of the thigh going down to the knee, never further. Because I have Glaucoma, I can’t stay on Prednisone longer. So, I’m hoping the amount I’ve been given will be enough to make a difference.

Tim and Emmet have gone back to NY for about 10 days. Emmet loves Central Park.

Belle visited the groomer. I had her trimmed a little shorter for the summer. She looks thinner! She was supposed to start her new class today but it’s been put off for 2 weeks.

Kitchen appliances have arrived and they were being installed today. Everything seems to be on schedule for my closing date. Belle will finally have her own home. The poor thing has been moving between Bridge St. ,Brewster and Florida. I’ve been bringing over to the condo so it won’t be a complete shock when we move.

Yesterday, I pushed the door closed with my knee. No big deal! About 1/2 hour later when I was having dinner, my knee started hurting. I looked down and it looked like someone had inflated a balloon under the skin. I had about a 3 “ bump. It was very painful and I had difficulty walking. I pulled a compression sock over my knee and applied ice. I took a pain pill before I went to bed and elevated my leg on 2 pillows. I slept all night. I had some difficulty getting out of bed in the morning but it lasted only a short time. I’m still icing but it is still painful and the swelling has not gone down. Maybe tomorrow!

Yesterday was (Uncle) Frank’s birthday and I had Mass for him today. I know some of you don’t believe in my visits with him but, it’s true. During the past 2 weeks since I’ve been going through the pain and stress of not knowing what is wrong with my back/hip, I have awakened 2 different nights not seeing him but feeling his presence. I just felt he was there. He took care of me through all my back and other surgeries. I believe he is still taking care of me.

Happy Waffle Day ! (Auntie) Beverly