Well done Kirk.
It's a huge decision to go under the knife and once the decision's made and the procedure's completed, the drop in pain levels and the feeling of wellness can be euphoric.
I worked in a rehab unit for many years and I have had my share of nasty back pain from degenerating discs. (Same area L4-L5-S1 -- it's a design flaw. We weren't meant to walk upright!
) I endorse the comments in previous posts -- easy as she does it, steady as she goes. Don't be seduced by how good your back is feeling right now. Stick to the program your therapists devise for you and all will be well.
Wishing you a blessed pain-free Christmas.