Thank you, new life, for starting this thread! Everyone seems to really step up when someone introduces a topic like this where we can share how PN affects our activities, relationships, etc.
I am one of the ones who has found walking reduces the pain and just makes me happier, so I try to do as much of that as I can. I have had problems with my ankle and a wound on my toe that won't heal so have been off the hiking trails for a while but got permission today to go back to walking- the wound isn't healing and isn't likely to until I get leg braces in a few weeks. Two professionals telling me I am severely knock-kneed in one week was a real ego killer no more skinny jeans!
I was a serious and accomplished needlewoman, but this has affected my hands, I can do most things but much more slowly and I drop my tools more than I used to. I still knit quite a bit and quilt a little, crochet is very hard on my hands and they cramp up quickly. I used to spend a lot of time looking at supplies but I have learned that I will never use half of what I already have on hand. I miss buying yarn a lot. I have also found that making items to donate to charity makes me feel less useless when I am really down on myself.
I am back to reading 18th and 19th century literature and poetry, most of which is free on the kindle. I have a large vintage needlework pattern and magazine collection which I enjoy going through.
I enjoy watching Hoarders and similar reality schadenfreude, as well as old movies and the BBC mysteries and classics. I love the Ninja Warrior stuff - just imagine having that kind of control over your body!
When I feel really ambitious, not often enough, I order photos printed and make up pages for the albums. I am never caught up but a few days here and there make a big difference.
I am unable to do the heavy housework, I have a friend help me every few weeks with the kitchen and bathrooms, but I do most of the cooking and baking for the five of us.