How refreshing...but back to reality!

So, I just got back from an AWESOME time at the lake in Georgia with one of my best friends from Clemson. Last Wednesday, I made a spur-of-the moment decision (very rare, for me) and decided to go visit Meredith in Lake Oconee, Georgia...about four hours from here. Turned out to be one of the best decisions I've made in awhile...since it really gave me some time to get away from here for awhile. I've been a bit frustrated this summer, not being able to really get in touch with certain people and finding out when they get off work so we can hang out, that sort of thing...this month before the surgery hasn't really turned out like I expected it to...at least minus the boat trip from Florida. Part of it is also due to the fact that I've just got so much stuff on my mind and a with the operation looming large, it had admittedly pushed me into a rut...but thankfully the lake has changed all that. I had a lot of time to think on the car ride there and back, and while I was actually at the lake with Meredith, her mom, and her wonderful friends from UGA and GaTech, there were times that I just COMPLETELY forgot that there was even an operation in the first place. Spent a lot of time wakeboarding, jetskiing, playing air hockey, ping pong, watching TV, and all the things you'd do on lazy summer days at the lake. We even managed to have a boat break down in the middle of the lake, but thankfully got back to the dock ok with a little help from a passing boater. It was just a relief to put things aside for awhile and focus on having some fun, relaxing, and letting go of worries for awhile.

Speaking of worries, I told a wonderfully wise woman (i.e. my grandmother) that I wasn't so much worried about my operation as I was about adjusting to life after the operation. She just looked at me, and with the sincerity and love that can only come from a grandmother, she said (in some form or another), "And why do you even need to worry about that? There is nothing to worry about. Everything will be just fine." I started to say something, but was struck by the fact that it's a similar refrain to what I've been hearing from most of my friends and family...and to be honest, I'm actually starting to believe you guys! So thanks!

I'm still amazed and humbled by the number of people catching up to me and telling me that they're thinking of me and praying for me...it's awesome and just makes me excited to know that things have to go well because so many people are expecting it and praying for it. About the only thing I can think to do to even begin to continue to thank God for placing such wonderful people around me.

In other news, the Tigers won their regional at Doug Kingsmore today, which means they'll advance to the Supers in Baylor, Texas! Way to go, Tigers! Just as important (ok, maybe a little more important), Clemson football starts in 89 days, 20 hours, 2 minutes, and 5 seconds as of this posting! Yeah!!

Tomorrow is a pre-op at MUSC...not really sure what's gonna be happening, but I'll be sure to let you guys know how it goes. Wednesday is the big day!!

Take it easy, y'all!