February 17, 2010 11:35 PM 4 days to go

Happy first rebirthday!

A year ago today, I had my bone marrow transplant. It's hard to believe but the year is over. Tonight, I had a mini-party with one of my daughters and her children. Of course, Sunday is the real deal to which I know that so many people are looking forward.

We went to church at noon today because it's Ash Wednesday. If what happened there is any indication of what is to happen on Sunday, it's going to be a very moving and emotional time for me. People were just so delighted to see my wife and me that hugs and kisses abounded. Fair warning for Sunday! I will have to go a little easy in this department because I do't want to catch anything. Please be aware that I am still on a small dose of immuno-supressants and, therefore, might be more succeptible to catching something than otherwise.

But it was a bittersweet day. For, during the sermon, the priest stated that our friend who is dying from leukemia was in the hospital. There was not enough information available to ascertain whether or not she can be there on Sunday. I know that she will do everything in her power to attend. I just pray to God that she can make for it would mean a lot to her and it would mean so much to me as well. Unfortunately, I really shouldn't be going to the hospital to visit her. But if that's the only way that I can see her, I'll put on a mask and gloves and go!

The sermon today was excellent by the way. Maybe it was moreso because Lent is a time of death and rebirth. "Remember from dust you came and to dust you shall return". And I could relate so well to it because that has been my life story for the past 16 months(were that it would have been only 40 days). I didn't know whether or not I would live or die. But live I did and today marks that first year of my rebirth!

Praise God...

Bob