Real Life Doesn't Stop—Even on Crutches

Last week, my bio kids were at their dad’s house for the first stretch of my ACL recovery. It was honestly a blessing in disguise. I got to rest, sleep in, and recover without the chaos of full-time mom duty. My partner Jake stepped up big time—holding things down with our 4-year-old and his two kids. I actually had time to heal. That’s one of the underrated perks of being in a blended family: sometimes, you get a break when you need it most.

Fast forward to this week, and real life is fully back in motion. All five kids are home, summer camps are in full swing, and the house is buzzing with activity. I’ve officially transitioned from rest mode to “hobbling-mom-duty” mode.

The pain meds are mostly packed away now—except for a dose before bed to deal with the end-of-day inflammation and fatigue. By the time I’ve limped through the day helping with snacks, outfits, and arguments, my knee is done. But I’m driving again (probably earlier than recommended, but when you're a mom, you do what you’ve gotta do). The kids are living their best lives, and I’m just trying to keep up, one cautious step at a time.

This morning started with a 5:40 a.m. wake-up call from our four-year-old:

“The sun’s out, so I’m up.”Shockingly, I talked her back into bed—and it actually worked. Mom win.

By 7, alarms were ringing, and I was dragging myself out of bed, trying to herd everyone out the door. My 10-year-old argued that she had to wear jeans to summer camp in 90-degree weather… because she “couldn’t find any shorts.” (Girl, you have like 100 pairs. Try opening a drawer.)

After the morning chaos, I finally carved out a moment to sit down and write this.

A little reminder for anyone recovering from injury: take the help.Jake’s mom has been incredible—dropping off multiple casseroles and even taking our toddler for four days during and after the surgery. I’m stubborn by nature. I like doing everything on my own. But this season is teaching me to accept help without guilt. People want to help. Let them.

As I write this, the laundry is calling, the backyard is ready for playtime, and I’m gearing up for all five kids to return tonight. Real life is officially back in full swing—and I’m doing my best to meet it head-on, crutches and all.

I’m also feeling so much better than I did 11 days post-op with my first ACL surgery (the BEAR procedure in 2024). This traditional ACL surgery recovery has been smoother so far, and I’m beyond thankful.

Here’s to progress—one wobbly step at a time.