-Isms: Views on life in rural America

There's something humbling about realizing your world can shrink to the size of an elevation pillow.

Since my left knee replacement surgery on May 7, life has become a carefully choreographed routine of ice packs, physical therapy appointments, medication alarms and trying not to spill tea while balancing a laptop on one leg. The right knee was replaced back in December, so at least this time I knew what I was walking into - eventually literally walking into.

Experience helps.

The first knee replacement came with surprise. This one came with strategy.

I have a system now. The tote beside my re...