Thursday, May 8, 2008 -- 7:45 PM   I feel better today than I have in quite a long time. Although I am still having physical pain in my legs, knees, left hip, and back, the amount of it seems to be decreasing on an overall basis. It fluctuates somewhat day-to-day, but it definitely feels better than it did in December.   Tuesday morning I saw my doctor. Everything seemed to be going well and he was very optimistic about my overall condition. He arranged for his social worker to work on helping me get a service/companion dog. I spoke to her briefly before leaving the doctor's office, and e-mailed her a fifteen-page application to look over, and possibly fill out for me.   I was feeling well enough this morning that I managed to go to my physical therapy appointment. The therapy seemed to help loosen my legs, and my therapist massaged both of my knees, which made them feel better.   Thanks to all of the DS members who have given me lots of support and encouragement regarding a variety of things that are important to me. I am not sure that I will be able to answer each and every one of you personally, but I value all of you as friends.