How to Prepare for Hip Surgery

Three weeks ago I had hip surgery.  What I’ve learned from telling people about my surgery is that they assume this is an old person procedure and wonder why I had it.  I had a hip arthroscopy which I would say is more common among younger adults than, say, a hip replacement that is more common in the golden ages.  Anyway, hip arthroscopies are primarily done to fix hip impingements (medical term femoroacetabular impingement but also known as FAI) or to repair labral tears (torn cartilage in the hip joint).  When I first learned I was having the surgery to repair both issues mentioned, I was disappointed by how little I found on the internet of real experiences.  Here is my recap of things I prepped to help make my recovery easier.  I hope this helps someone else!

How to Prepare for Hip Surgery
Did you know they make hospital gowns that blow hot air inside to keep you warm? So nice when you’re nervous!

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How to Make a Baking Conversion Chart with Canva

Growing up I remember baking with my mom on occasion.  We always used the same counter spot and it wasn’t the most spacious.  But it was where all the baking supplies (flour, sugar, etc) were and close to the mixing bowls and measuring cups and spoons.  This little corner also had a *fancy* cabinet door.  When the door was opened, a nice laminated baking conversion chart was there to reference as much as needed.  After growing up and leaving, I didn’t think much of that chart until recently.  I found I was constantly googling conversions.  Here is how I made a super easy and simple baking conversion chart for free using Canva.

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Things to do when Winter is Never Ending

Does anyone feel as though this winter is lasting an eternity?  I normally love winter but then again, I also love winter sports and I have not been able to do them this year (more on that later).  We have reached mid-February and realized the schools around here have not gone for a full 5 days since before Christmas.  The weather is just killing it.  And the makeup for ice, snow, and frigid days is going to lead to school all year round at this rate!  If you are struggling this winter like we are, here is a roundup of great ideas to pass the time until the snow melts for good.

Things to do when Winter is Never Ending
Took this photo at work today. No one will be out on that patio any time soon!

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9 Songs for 2019

Music can be so therapeutic.  It can capture emotions and moods and feelings when you can’t put them all into words.  2018 definitely brought a lot of ups and downs and I am expecting 2019 to do the same.  But here are 9 songs I’ll be listening to a lot this year for different reasons.  Most of these are not super well known, so hopefully you’ll discover something new that you love!

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Admiring Eyes and Grateful Hearts

Every so often I get inspired and I need to write something.  Sometimes it’s a poem, sometimes it’s more like a journal entry.  Sometimes they are about difficult things.  Other times they are reflections or dreams or wishes.  Below is something I wrote at the end of November.  I rarely share these writings but I felt this one would be great to share after the holidays to carry on the holiday joy.  But then I realized that not everyone has holiday joy right now.  People are mourning their first Christmas after a loved one passed.  Or they are frazzled with all the shopping, wrapping, and parties.  Or maybe the Christmas magic and believing in others has faded just a bit from last year.  Wherever you are at this holiday season, I hope this inspires you and reminds you that the world is still a wonderfully magical place.

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