I had the same surgery just 3 weeks ago so I'm still healing. Like you, I thought I would do some applique and try to get interested in handwork. However, I spent most of the time on this message board! It was so much more fun than applique and handwork for me!
After about ten days I decided to try to use the sewing machine. You will have a stiff velcro shoe to wear whenever you are up to go to the restroom. I was able to push the pedal of the machine using that shoe. You can't do it for long because after awhile you will need to put your foot up again.
Now that I'm in the "boot" which is a big heavy thing, it's a little trickier, but I'm still managing. Once you get the balance of how much pressure and where to put your foot on the pedal it's much easier.
Good luck! PM me if you have any questions on the foot thing and sewing!