I think the most difficult part of my hip surgery recovery has not being able to be in the kitchen. I think the best part of my hip surgery recovery has not being able to be in the kitchen.

Needless to say, we have been eating well – either in spite of or because of – my absence in the kitchen.

We all know that Victor is a fantastic cook – and he has not disappointed these past 5 days.

The other fun has been local delivery from family! You can’t get food this good from Door Dash or a Michelin-starred restaurant!

Niece Katie made an Artichoke Tart that was just out of this world good! Artichokes, cheese, fresh herbs, sesame seeds along the crust… It was outstanding in its simplicity. I have a tendency to overdo things like this and this was my wake-up call that less is more. Totally delish amd something I shall try and replicate in the future.

And then she made a soup that proved the opposite!

It was like a Sausage Chowder for lack of an official name, with Italian sausage, potatoes, sweet potatoes, orzo, and, lots of different vegetables in a wonderfully light, creamy – and ridiculously flavorful – broth. I can eat soup regardless of the weather and this is one that I could eat daily.

Anyone who has ever had surgery or was prescribed narcotics knows that they can wreak havoc on the digestive tract. [I have a very humorous story about my most recent adventure but a food blog is probably not the best place to share it…] Roughage and fiber are key things to ingest – along with your Colace.

Knowing this, Phoebe and Nancy came over with the perfect salad.

Marinated grilled Chicken, marinated grilled shrimp, and a bounty of fresh vegetables and leafy greens to keep the plumbing flowing and the tastebuds singing.

Every bite was a new flavor experience with the food gods whispering ‘take another bite, take another bite…’ until my plate was empty and I was smiling and pleasantly full.

Anyone can have a good surgery, but their ability to recover is how well their post surgery experience is.

And I have to say that I may be one of the luckiest people on the face of the earth and this shall definitely be a speedy recovery – thanks to all of you!

♥♥♥