Hannelore, I just cannot be contained! The antiobiotic has had a positive effect. I am now drinking and eating so I don't feel like I am not only sick but dehydrated from being sick. Yesterday, I actually showered, dressed and talked Lynn into taking me out of the house. We did a abbreviated grocery shopping run in expectation of a freezing rain or snowstorm being predicated for today into tomorrow. By the time we got to the checkout I did have to sit down and Lynn said I was looking sort of white. I told her I was caucasian but she said it was worse than that white. When we returned home I was definitely ready for a nap. I see the doctor on 1/17 to check out the healing process and see if I can drive yet. The best part of this surgical adventure is that I haven't smoked since 1/3/07! I had wanted to quit and major surgery seemed like an appropriate time to eliminate the urge. So far I have had only an occasional moment of interest that has been easily ignored.