Bob the Builder is recuperating well from his rotator cuff surgery. I'm hopeful he'll be released to drive by this time next week. Fingers crossed.
Here are just a few things I've learned during Bob's recovery time:
- The trash and recycling cans are nearly as big as I am and they aren't easy to roll.
- Giving the dog a bath is more like giving myself one. She's only 14 lbs. but it's like sumo wrestling!
- Cases of bottled water are lots heavier than they look.
- There's a big difference between regular and LED light bulbs. Rather than trying to decipher 900 different types of light bulbs, take it to the hardware store, talk sweet and bat your eyelashes a lot. Someone will have pity on you and provide help.
- I'm not mechanically inclined.
…and my list could go on and on and on.
Opening the mail is something he enjoys doing. On a recent trip to the mailbox, beaming ear to ear, he shows me an envelope addressed to him. His statement - "I know this is a handmade card without even opening it and it's not for you. It's for me!"
Cindy Jo is an online stamping friend and she created this card for Bob the Builder. She used the retired Cookie Cutter Halloween stamp set for the skeleton.
What Cindy Jo didn't know is that her card is additionally appropriate. Bob the Builder had used an ice machine for three days, around the clock, after his surgery. It went through LOTS of ice. I routinely carried 30 lbs. of ice because I hated making duplicate trips to the freeze. That included lugging them through the store, standing in line to pay for them and hauling them out of the card. I work out at the gym routinely so lifting the bags wasn't a problem for me. I thought! I have no idea what I've done to my left arm but it has been sore for weeks. The next thing I've learned – don't be lazy. Make multiple trips when handling bags of ice.
The eskimo image (representing me on the card!) is from the Cookie Cutter Christmas stamp set.
Cindy Jo's card is extra special. It was made with her own two hands and it has certainly lifted our spirits. Although addressed to Bob the Builder, we are both enjoying it! Thank you, my friend!

Cute, cute card! Such a thoughtful friend to think of BTB! TFS!
Cindy Jo is a sweetheart and we are both enjoying this card. It’s adorable!
You learned a lot of valuable tools during his recovery sounds like this one might have been harder than the last. Adorable card from a good friend . Thanks for sharing.
What a perfect card for Bob the Builder!! I know he was excited to receive it. Thanks for sharing it with us. Being a caregiver is a tough job, but I’m sure you’ve come through like a champ…not that you want to practice those skills very often! :-)))
Cute cute cute! Love the give things you learned ❤️
Hi Gaeyl! I have learned a lot of valuable lessons. You’re absolutely correct! He’s a great man and I’m blessed to have him. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi HJ! It is the perfect card for Bob the Builder! Being a caregiver is a tough job – simply because there are times when you don’t know what to do for them. He’s been an incredible patient and he’s doing so well! I’ve learned a lot about myself since his surgery, too. I’ve learned I’m not as patient with change as I thought I was. I’m working on that! Thanks for stopping by and taking the time (as always) to comment.
Hi Patty! Yup, I’ve learned a lot. He’s doing so wonderful too. BEST thing in the world is seeing the healing power of God! 😀 Thanks for stopping by to comment. HUGS!
Oh my goodness, I really think Bob the Builder’s card is just the “cats meow.” You both get to enjoy your friend’s thoughtfulness. Thank God for your strength and stamina to take care of hubby. You are one amazing lady.
Isn’t it creative! Cindy Jo did a spectacular job! Thank you, Loretta!