You really have been dealing with a lot! I wanted to say I understand your excitement with Shane coming home early. My husband is in Detroit this week, he left Monday and will be back LATE Friday. I want him back EARLY Friday, but it's not up to me (or him). It sucks! I mean, I'm independent and can keep myself busy, but it's lonely when you're used to him being there! Especially sleeping at night. I don't like how the empty bed feels so I bunch up the covers around me tight so I'm "protected"!!
My mom had knee surgery a few years ago right before Thanksgiving and she regrets it!! bad timing for sure!
Good luck with everything, keep up the fennel tea and take a breather once in a while!