Today's rehab went very well. I was able to push my heart rate up over 120 beats per minute. That was a bit of a surprise to me. I did not think they would want me going that high; almost 2 times my normal heart rate before this all happened.

The Exercise Physiologist told me that eventually she would like me to go up to 135. This is a surprise to me. I figured 120 would be my upper limit for some time. Not sure why I thought this, I have just always had that number in my head.

This was my only stop this week at rehab. My next session is next Tuesday. So, anyone who is reading this, PLEASE remind me to get my walking in every day. I try to remember, but 3 kids will suck the brain power out of the best of men. I really can't go a whole week without "working-out".

PLEASE anyone within the sound of my "voice" email me, text me, send me a Facebook message or comment on this blog and pester me each day to walk.

...and now, back to the story...


Nov. 25 & 26 - Special Visitors at the Cardiac Floor

I had so many wonderful visits while I was on the Cardiac floor. To all of those who visited me, "Thank you!" It is never fun to be in a hospital room to visit. The person is probably tired, there is NOWHERE to sit, and you have to be quiet. SO, thanks to everyone.

That being said, I had two particular visits that I want to mention today.

First, and most importantly, I was allowed to see the kids!!!!!
The CV-ICU doesn't allow children. But, even if it did, I wouldn't have let them see me while I was there. No WAY they were going to see me looking pathetic. They needed to know I was okay & I did not LOOK okay in the ICU. It was hard, but best. So, my first full day on the Cardiac floor, I got to see my ducklings and it made me feel SO MUCH BETTER. William walked in, teared up and ran right to my side with a huge hug. Kerry followed suit and then, THEN, Mackenzie climbed up on the bed and laid her head on me. Cry much? I did.

The second visit was only slightly less special because it was actually such a surprise. A family from the children's school came. I am leaving their name out to protect everyone from the "internet ghouls". But, here is the visit...I am sitting with Ashley, it is quiet and we figured we were "in for the night". Next thing you know there is this soft rap on the door and in comes the daughter, carrying a basket of books & coloring books for me AND the kids. What a thoughtful gift to bring.

So, mom, dad and daughter sat & talked for a good 30 minutes. They let me explain to the daughter what happened to me. This was great because it was practice for telling my OWN kids later in the week. We just had a nice visit. There was nothing special about the conversation.

What made this visit so special? Well, while these are VERY nice folks & I enjoy speaking to them at the school, we really have no relationship outside the walls of the school. This visit was out of the blue and therefore special.

I could name 20 couples with whom I have had more of a relationship outside the school, and yet, something in these folks brought them to me at a time of need. I never thought I would be on their radar for such a visit and such care. This is not a reflection on the family, they are wonderful folks. I just never thought I was of that much consequence to them. It was a nice surprise and a nice addition to my life.

Lesson Learned: Be a positive influence and have a positive impact on all the folks you meet. You never know which ones will stop in and see you in times of need....and NEVER bet on who is knocking on your door.