T+31

Good morning.

Unfortunately, another sleepless night. I don't know exactly why. Perhaps, like my friend Marsha, it's from the meds. They make it difficult to concentrate and make me feel somewhat jittery. It's early now but I just might try to catch a few ZZZZs before showering, dressing and starting my day. I did make my own breakfast this morning. I was thinking about breakfast all night long! More and more I'm doing things for myself. Although I'm feeling stronger and stronger, it's a bit deceiving since I do get tired very easily. (Again, a side effect of the meds, which give you a false sense of well-being). Luckily, the doctors were pretty adament about NO HOUSEWORK. So, I'm only doin' the good stuff!

Yesterday, the visiting nurse came to flush my lines and change my dressing. Actually, she flushed my lines and supervised Mom changing the dressings. Mom was a pro! In fact, the nurse asked her if she was a nurse or a doctor! Next change will be on Friday and will God willing be done at the hospital.

It's cool and windy but sunny. So, perhaps I'll get out a little bit today. I'm expecting a couple of guests again. I'm really looking forward to seeing my friends Beth & Esther. (Better known as Buford/Bunky and Princess). Also, I've been craving potato latkes...I mean, it IS after all Chanukah! I had a few of Shelly's yummy latkes on Sunday (technically not YET Chanukah), so I'm due.

Thank you so much Gail for last nights dinner. It was soooooooo good...we had a feast!

Illana, the unsung hero...Illana's "behind the scenes" work kept the entire machine running. I would not have been able to stay positive and hopeful without everything she did...searching the four corners of the earth to satisfy my every craving when nothing tasted good to me...back and forth to the hospital on a daily basis, bringing dirty laundry/clean clothes, food for mom to eat, MIMIs when I needed them, hats and kerchiefs to cover up my jelly bean head, surprise balloons, teddy bears, lanterns to decorate my room, flameless candles to decorate my room. My hospital room was an attraction to all of the doctors and nurses because of her. And you can't imagince how "spirit lifting" it all was. AND all with her own household to run and her own children to care for. And NOW, organizing all of my meals and coordinating with everyone wanted to send in...AND....(as if it weren't all enough)...she would GLADLY have been my stem cell donor. There is no sister more fortunate and loved than I. Except for her. I love you so much and don't, for a second, think that ANYTHING is not appreciated. I know how difficult a time this was for you but you came through like a trooper and made it all ok.

Thank you all for following along and for your prayers and good wishes. Every day is a miracle.