Day + 23

Hi To All,

It's been a few days, but I figure you all may be tiring of this, especially when there is not much new to report, so I will space them out accordingly. Medical update: Had two visits to the U. of C. this week, and still getting good reports on all the labs. They tweaked my meds again, and are watching out till next week for a little anemia, which is very common for us transplantees. The Doc asked me how many blood transfusions I had while in the hospital, and when I told him none, he seemed surprised, and said that was another exception to the norm! Next Tuesday is my next bone marrow biopsy (not my "fave"!), and they tell me from that from that, they will be able to tell exactly how much of my marrow is my original, or the Studs' contribution. Isn't that amazing? I'll fill you all in on the details next week sometime.
Anecdote for today: Many of you out there in blogland know that I am rather infamous for my lack of singing talent, though I usually do not let that stop me when moved by a great song. Cook is certainly used to it (I do not contain it to the shower stall). Some have heard me validate this with the story of having to mouth the words at our Fraternity Sing in college to avoid ruining it for everyone. Anyway, Cookie was driving me down to the hospital this week, and on the radio they were playing Lucy in the sky with diamonds (by the Beatles obviously). Having grown up in the Beatles Age (Jill A and I saw them live in Chicago on their first tour, circa early '60's), I still love their music, and began to sing along. Here's where it gets strange...I actually sang a whole bar, and turned to Cook and said: "Did you hear that? I think I actually was on key for that whole phrase!" She smiled, looked at me in amazement, and said: "You really were!"
People, I have to tell you that this was truly a shocking accomplishment. I don't think I have ever been on key for that many notes and words in my entire life! There is only one person in this world who has ever told me that I have a good voice, and that was my mother-in-law, which only goes to show you how thick those rose colored glasses are that she puts on whenever discussing her children, spouses and grandchildren. Even my own mother made fun of my singing!
I tell you this story because I think it may have something to do with the new me! Maybe my 21 year old stud is a rock star, and now all those songs brought to mind by the names of the people we have met on this journey will be ammunition for my new-found abilities!!! We will keep you "posted" if this does indeed continue.
Wishing all of you a great Memorial Day Weekend! The weather turned great here in Chicago, and we hope you all enjoy the time off from your daily chores. Good health to All!!

Mike