The Next Step and Strausmas 2010

I've been a Nationals season ticket holder for the last four years. We've stuck by our team through their last place seasons -- through the worst.

Last night we were rewarded, big time. It was the greatest baseball game I think I'll ever see in person. It was the Strasburg debut, or as the locals have called it, Strausmas.

I think I took this from my phone around the first inning. The guy was absolutely ridiculous. Fourteen batters struck out! No walks! It was unbelievable.

He packs a 103 mph heater. The radar gun at the stadium displayed "TILT" on most of his pitches.

Last night was also the last time I'll wear a boot. That's right. I'm done! I went into the doctor's office to see both Dr. Borden and Dr. Buchanan. I asked if I could drive, and I was told not only could I drive my car again, but I should stop wearing the boot to regain my flexibility and grow my calf muscle back.

If you look closely, you'll see a bandage tan line on my bad ankle. Today was the first time I've worn a shoe and sock since February. It was a big step. Amazingly, walking around like this felt better than I thought it would.

Update: Doug pointed out that the above photo was either Photoshopped or taken in a mirror. It was taken in a mirror. Very observant.

The skin transplant has finished healing. The scar looks awesome.

I'll probably have to wear a compression stocking for the rest of the year to control my edema. I start physical therapy Friday morning. I'm really looking forward to that.

I go back to the doctor in six weeks, the longest break we've had from their office ever. Dr. Borden said she was sad and that we should have taken a group photo. Next time!