Getting on with life

I saw the Dr last Wednesday for the last time. We talked about the nagging pain I've been having versus the full range of motion and continued strengthening of my shoulder. I told him that I'm ready to get on with life, more specifically riding, but the continuing pain was quite bothersome. So he injected my AC (acromioclavicular) joint, which he thought to be irritated by the fact that it was ever so slightly narrowed - partially by age, and partially by the surgery. And wah-lah! I feel like a new person! Okay, well, new in an old person sort of way. That done, I will allow him to move to West Virginia if he must. I still think we need the likes of him around here, but I can't blame him for taking advantage of a new opportunity.
So finally I got to ride yesterday! Not my horse, of course, but old faithful Bullwinkle. It felt good to get around the ring and realize I can still walk, trot and canter reasonably well. The legs are still there. I haven't lost as much strength as I thought, and I was surprised that I was not tired out. Bullwinkle ran out of steam before I did. My shoulder felt good throughout. I hope I'll have opportunities to ride another horse or two before I get back on Biff. Stacey's plans to show him in September will likely keep me from riding him much - if at all - before then.
I see my physical therapist this week for the last time too. I still need to continue an exercise program at home, but I don't think I'll need to go in to see him. Too bad, because I've enjoyed meeting everyone there and its been very educational. I'm fascinated with the work that they do. As a matter of fact, I'm seriously considering studying the work they do. The paperwork to attend COD has been started. I just can't quit my day job to do it, so we'll see if I can work it out.