Post Op and Programming

My cup overflows. I saw my incredible surgeon and wonderful audiologist yesterday for a post-op check and programming for my right Esteem. Everything is wonderful...really, really wonderful. (Side note: I HATE doctor appointments unless they're at Dr. Shohet's office. Everyone there is so wonderful. The only downside to not needing do much medical attention is that I won't get to see everyone so often!) Dr. Shohet said my incision is healing very well. I definitely cannot lift anything heavy for another week...so no setting up my classroom. My coworkers will understand the humor in that. :) Sam programmed my right ear to mostly match my left and the results are fantastic. My tympanogram (middle ear pressure) is shallow, probably from inflammation, but I'm still hearing very, VERY well. I am so thankful.

My friend Robin and I drove down to Orange County on Saturday to hang out and relax for a few days. I was worried about my energy level, but I've been okay. The pain is pretty much gone now and I feel like myself again. Of course, I'd take pain over hearing loss ANY DAY! We've had a lot of fun just exploring. :) We spent the day at Disneyland yesterday. I couldn't ride many rides, but had a blast enjoying the park. Lots to celebrate right now. One of these definitely stands out. :)

I go back to work on Monday, my 29th birthday. Like every teacher, I dread summer ending, but I am very glad that I'll be able to function normally again. The last few months of the last school year were really difficult. It's hard to teach under constant stress. What I'm dreading most is sitting in 3- and 4-hour long training sessions on my birthday. I don't handle sitting still very well haha! At least I'll be able to hear the presenters now. :)

The change in my mental state is dramatic. I knew I would feel better once I could hear, but I didn't think it would be this different right away. I'm calm. The constant anxiety and tension are gone. Obviously, I'm stressed out about a new school year, particularly when I'm limited physically, BUT I can handle everyday life stress. When I couldn't hear, the constant stress was such a burden that little things got to me. It was horrible. Looking back, I see that pattern all through my life. I thought it was just me. I am so thankful  it's not. Life is much more enjoyable when I can relax. :).  This miracle never ceases to amaze me.