The Rainbow Dress

The Rainbow/Easter/Birthday dress for Irene is finally finished! I'm happy with how it turned out, and I think Irene will love it. I just hope it fits! It's hard to do these things long distance. As you can probably tell, I don't spend hours a day on a project until it's done. There are so many other things to do. Now I'll get started on Isaac's vest, and a few other little surprise projects that involve learning new tricks on my serger and maybe doing some more embroidery. This morning, after Friday morning breakfast with our teacher friends, I drove downtown to see a cardiologist. This was on a referral to discuss the results of the earlier echocardiogram. The confirmed news is that I do have moderate stenosis (narrowing) of the aortic valve. The good news is that there are no other issues. My heart is in good shape. The uncertain news is that it isn't known if the condition is progressive, and if so, how fast. In fact, my after-visit summary says, "At this point there are no indications this is causing any problems and is not likely to for some years. You have no restrictions or need to do anything differently." So the result is that I just go on about my life, trying to live healthfully, and have a repeat test in two years. While the doctor did say that at a normal rate of progression, we could be looking at a valve replacement in eight to ten years, I told him that I didn't intend to even think about it until the next test in two years. Then we'll know if it's progressive. Until then I plan to continue to be my usual abnormal self. And one again, I'm thankful for good insurance and the care I'm getting through Group Health Cooperative. No bills, no paperwork, not even a copay!