PDX -
Tomorrow marks 8 weeks since my MVR...I'm in my second week of cardiac rehab...I was an asymptomatic 43 year-old competitive cyclist...and I repeatedly asked the exact same question. While frustrated with the 6-12 month prognosis for realizing the full benefits of the surgery and getting back to "normal," it's finally sinking in that some things shouldn't be rushed. Considering the alternative, and all things considered, I'll take being alive with a recovering heart and taking it just a little easier than before.
Your heart cannot be rushed into anything. When I asked my CT surgeon when my RHR would get back to normal (from 85-90 to 45-50 bpm), he told me flat out, a year. When I asked why, he said, "I can't really answer that question. The heart just knows when its healed."
This forum is invaluable. Everyone here will provide much needed reassurance, comfort and encouragement. You're in the right place.
Mike