Pembo, I'm so glad you are staring to feel better. I understand very well how you are feeling right now, and I have to tell you it will get better, but it will take time.
I still can't feel the left half of my chin or my left ear more than 2 years after my surgery, but the muscles on the left side of my face work now. It took a good 6 months to start feeling "normal" again though.
A couple weeks ago I apparently cut my ear somehow, and didn't know because I can't feel it, so I didn't realize it until my DH saw blood running down my ear. I just have to be more careful about those things, as you will, but I promise it will get better! I think the swim goggles are a great idea for washing your hair, at least for a while!
Stay strong, and my thoughts are with you!
Lisa