u/Bohemialife1

I've been stuck at home for almost two months recovering from surgery on both of my feet after doctors removed two early melanomas.

I miss my old routine more than I expected. I love walking along the river and hiking in the hills around my town, but right now that's simply not possible. Some days I get angry. Sometimes I cry. Most days, though, I'm just grateful that the melanoma was caught in time and that I'm still here.

The hardest part isn't the pain—it's feeling trapped at home. I never realized how much joy I got from something as simple as taking my dog for a long walk, listening to music, and bringing home little treasures that nature left behind.

Making things has become my way of coping. On the brighter days I press flowers into artwork. On the harder days, I make wall hangings from feathers, branches, shells, bones, and other little finds I collected before I got sick. It reminds me that even while I'm standing still, part of me is still out there in the woods.

I'm not really sure why I'm posting this. Maybe because I needed to say it out loud. And maybe because if you're healthy today, don't forget to enjoy the ordinary things—the sunshine, a walk outside, your favorite music, or time with someone you love.

Wishing everyone good health. ❤️