Welcome back Jess. Seems like I was riding the same boat as you in 2008. Three trips to the hospital for my heart and now a bunch of medicines everyday. Also in March 08 had my left knee operated on. Couldnt walk prior to the surgery. Tried hunting Fall of 07 but couldn't climb the ladder to my stand. got the knee fixed and no more pain. Just can't hike distance like I used to or my heart starts acting up. You are right, birthdays ain't as fun as they used to be.
But I have been able to go to the range, and even took my son hunting this fall with his 243 Handi. He watched a 6pt come through a clearing towards our food plot then the buck suddenly bolted. a few seconds later a pit bull and a hound dog came through right on his tracks. We have problems with dog hunters from an adjacent lease tracking over.
Can't wait to take my boy turkey hunting this spring. got a Handi youth 20 g that throws a great pattern out to 25 yds. We'll see. Take care of yourself and let us know how you're doing.
