Everyone will probably think I am totally crazy, but I am spending my last full week before surgery across the pond on business. This weekend I had a lovely two days in Paris (ok that wasn't business) - my second time there. I got over my vanity and brought a folding cane with me (a cute one by switch sticks) and that got me through the Louvre, Notre Dame and the D'Orsay yesterday with minimal discomfort. I also was able to climb all the steps to Sacre Coeur on Saturday (including the circular stone steps to the dome) and numerous metro stations and long walks all weekend. I met up with a business associate and she's been a great help with luggage, etc. as well. Now I'm in Frankfurt for a trade show until Friday. I was very nervous about how my hip would hold up but it's been a champ so far - feeling it more in my calves and thighs at the moment! This trip was in the works before I decided to schedule my surgery, so it became one of the markers for a "window of opportunity" to get my surgery done before my next big work commitment in March. Also a great distraction heading into next week for sure! By sheer luck I don't have to quit my ibuprofen habit until the day I fly back. I've been reading all the positive recovery threads going on right now which keeps up my optimism for a good recovery. Now if it would just quit raining in Frankfurt...