Hi Sheri,
First off, blessing on your surgery and congratulations on all the good work you've done in preparation for your off time.
I have never been one to pinch back, but I know of others who have done so with success. As I understand it, early pinching is good, but perhaps others will be able to offer more concrete advice.
One thing I do know well is foot surgery. Mine was likely more extensive than you're having done (in my case a fractured calcaneus let to a plate and 9 screws and months and months of recovery time), but any foot surgery is considerably less than fun. Things that worked for me: get a rollator with a middle seat (google it and look at images) -- it was so very useful. See if you can get a temporary handicap sticker for your car before your surgery. Once you do get out -- even with someone else driving -- you'll be glad to have it. A shower seat might also do you well, especially if your doctor anticipates that you will have to keep your foot elevated for some time. Depending on your downtime, a "nest" area may also do you well -- a place at home where you can recover with the needed and nice near by: books, remote, tablet, etc. Try to be patient, although I know well that's not easy.
As for the garden, I was fortunate to have some folks come my way and lend a hand, sometimes with me wheeling behind, sometimes just based on some gentle instruction. It won't be as lovely as if you were doing it, but this year you have a good excuse, and a missed season or two can be remedied once the healing takes hold which is the important part.
All the best,
Sean
