...but I find myself very lacking in patience these days when it comes to my own physical limitations. In light of the many sweet and overprotective people in my life and the fact that God has already numbered my days and I can't do a think to shorten or lengthen them, I've compiled a list of things that I refuse to give up while I still am physically capable.

-- My physical relationship with my husband. Enough said (blush, blush...).

--My children. I love to watch them, to teach them, and to engage with them. Dragging through the afternoon and evening is worth every moment when I get to watch the dancing, the goal scored, or their performance with the church choir.

--My friends and family. I never want to isolate myself from such a loving circle--even if I've occasionally avoided the phone lately, it's not because I don't love them, it's just because I haven't been in the mood to rehash the latest developments.

-- Service. It brings me such joy, and there is always something I can do, no matter how limited. This week it was baking for the harvest festival cake walk (with my older children) and face painting (sitting down the whole time, LOL!). I wouldn't have missed all the fun.

-- My doula clients. God bless her, my last one brought in two people to do the "heavy lifting" part of her support, but still had me there to suggest, support, and direct. She even arranged for my transportation. Yes, the two days with her required close to three of recovery and it was worth every extra ache and pain. Each birth is a miracle...I can't imagine anything more life affirming or joyous.

On the other hand, there are things I could easily get used to:

-- I love my cleaning ladies. While I know that being able to clean my own house will signal the welcome return of my strength, I can't get super excited about dusting and cleaning our toilets when they do such a great job!

--I haven't been asked to volunteer for anything since this all happened. I get to be very choosy in what I do, and there is NO guilt.

-- Grocery shopping. I've never been a fan of it (too many morning-sickness episodes in the stores) and it's been lovely to have my mom do it.

I guess it's all about counting the costs. Right now, I'm just counting the days until I'm allowed to drive again. I'm having flashbacks to being fifteen, but without a learner's permit!