This is Chena’s very first time actually posting myself, so be nice, please. I spent yesterday in fetal position because my computer was acting up, but since son Ben in person and hub Gary via phone (he’s in Juneau doing what he does almost best) seemed to have done wonders for my computer, let’s see if I can let you know about today with Niilo (aka Dad aka Grandpa).

I didn’t see Dad today! Fairbanks is very snowy and I am trying to get a lot of paperwork done by the 15th (guess what kind?!) No excuses, but time slipped. I see that Heather sent me an email and this is most of what she said: “Two days out from abdominal surgery today, Niilo started drinking clear liquids and grape juice today. He stood up and walked a short bit, with help. Pain was enough for one smallest dose of morphine once, so his lucid period was short-lived, though he also told Heather and Joan about soils around the world and inhaled on the keep-the-ball-up device.

Because Niilo was a bit jaundiced and blood tests confirmed high bilirubin, he is scheduled for an MRCD (MRI focusing on the common bile duct, which did not get removed in surgery) Friday morning at 6:30 a.m. If a stone is still in the common bile duct, it could pass on its own; or it could possibly mean further surgery.” Thanks, Heather. Y’all know it’s her birthday today, right?

Heard from some out of staters and I can’t wait to tell Dad about that. Yesterday I was yelling to him about someone writing us to give love to him–I saw his hearing aids were out–when his nurse came hustling on in. I probably got them thinking I was after him big time, but they don’t know I’m almost as sweet as my Dad. (!) Anyway, his room is right near the nurse’s station, which is convenient when we want to get something answered. The nurses and staff at Fairbanks Memorial have been super eager to be be helpful and explain anything we want. I’m very happy with them.

Thanks Beth and you lovely people who have posted comments. Nancy H-D, great to hear from you! What great spirits and good vibes you folks are sending.

G’night, Chena