The Little Things Helping Me After Surgery

Including the book I can't put down, an easy meal hack, and a case for short garden walks

As many of you know, last week I had a mastectomy on my left side along with reconstruction of both breasts. I opted for silicone implants, and I’d be lying if I said I was already comfortable with my new buxom size Cs. Maybe it’s because they’re still wrapped in bandages and a compression bra.

I took one peek at them while the nurse changed the dressing, and let me tell you, I was not ready to see them in all their swollen glory.

I posted a thread in my Substack chat asking—did you ever get used to your implants? You responses were so thoughtful and comforting! A wise friend who’s been down this road also messaged me, and it really helped:

I’m still tired and a little woozy from the pain meds, so this won’t be a long essay today. I’ll share more soon on the emotional side of all this. But for now, here’s a roundup of things bringing me joy and helping me through these strange early days post-surgery.

Little Things Helping Me After Surgery

Flowers next to my bed

My husband and kids gave me flowers when I got home from the hospital. I keep them next to my bed, and they lift my spirits every time I see them. They conjure meadows of wildflowers and put some distance between me and the clinical feel of the hospital.

Meds and supplements

I’m taking a mix of prescribed meds and supplements. Alongside the pain meds, I’ve been told to take bromelain (a pineapple extract that may help with swelling) and a French product called Boost Drain, which supposedly helps flush anesthesia from your system. I’m a bit skeptical of anything that claims to “detox” the body, but giving it a try nonetheless.

Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke

It seems as if everyone is reading Yesteryear right now (when they aren’t reading Lena Dunham’s Famesick). It’s about a tradwife influencer (modeled on Ballerina Farm) who wakes up one day actually living in the 1800s. I’m devouring it. I was worried the author might treat the main character with too much derision, but it’s more nuanced than that. Highly recommend.

Cards from my kids

Is there anything sweeter than cards written by kids? I keep these by my bed and my heart melts every time I read them.

A slow cooker

I haven’t owned a slow cooker in years, but the week before surgery I impulse-bought one on Amazon. After our online grocery order arrived (another lifesaver), I threw in onions, garlic, carrots, mushrooms, tomatoes, and chicken, then added water and seasoning, and let it cook all afternoon. Later, I made basmati rice in my rice cooker (God bless kitchen gadgets) and served it with a simple green salad. It was the perfect nourishing, low-effort meal.

Short walks around the yard

I’ve been taking short walks around our garden. Yesterday I managed three loops. I’m typically very active so I struggle with lying down for long periods of time. This “walk” gives me some fresh air and at least the illusion that I’ve done a bit of exercise.

Animal Spirit cards

Every so often, when I need a bit of guidance, I pull an Animal Spirit card. My 9-year-old snuggled up with me and we chose together. I got the crocodile, which felt very apropos. I once wrote a whole essay about learning to rest without guilt, and yet I still struggle with it. So now I’m trying to be like the crocodile and submerge.

My cats

Speaking of animal spirits, the second I got home and into bed, both cats climbed in with me and have barely left my side. It’s uncanny. They’re always affectionate, but this is next level. They follow me everywhere and want to lie on me all day. It really does feel like they know something’s up.

Binge-watching

I finished all eight episodes of Something Very Bad Is Going to Happen. It was fine. It started strong, but by the end there were too many loose ends. Also watched DTF St. Louis (dark but good), and now I’m into season two of Your Friends and Neighbors. When I don’t have the energy to read, TV is a good distraction.

Nice melons!

A friend dropped off a basket of farmer’s market melons. Get it?🍈🍈

That’s all for now. Thank you, as always, for reading. I’m so grateful. If you’ve been through surgery, I’d love to hear what helped you get through recovery. xo