Where does one even begin when telling the story of one of the best weeks of their life?
I guess I might as well start at the beginning.
Everyone knows a trip doesnt start at the destinationit starts with your first airport beer.
Since we werent allowed to drink 72 hours before our procedure, that first night became our Super Bowl.
We got absolutely hammered on some Turkish liquor, which was essentially a clear Jagermeister.
It was delicious and went down like water.
If youve never smoked a cigarette indoors, let me tell youits life-changing.
And let me tell you, White Sox Dave is that dude.
We were like MJ and LeBrontwo goats trading shots, cigarettes, bites, and songs.
And it wasnt just us going hard; the entire restaurant was in on it.
Ive never seen anything like it.
It felt like the entire restaurant was sitting at the same table.
It was magicalso many strangers acting like old friends.
After conquering dinner, we hit the streets of Istanbul.
Ill be honest, I didnt listen to much of what the tour guide said.
I picked up bits and pieces, but mostly I was just soaking in the view.
If youre here for a history lesson, go watch Donnies vlog because Im not about to educate you.
However, I will tell you about the incredible exchange rate.
I went from being a broke American to living like Dave Portnoy overnight.
3,400 Turkish lira was equivalent to $100.
You do the math.
As Drake once said, I got money to blow.
The boys and I went on a shopping spree.
Now, lets talk food.
Despite the fact that it had me shitting my brains out nightly, the food was incredible.
That said, my Italian soul was dying for pasta, and all I got was beef and lamb.
Everywhere we ate, though, they put on a show.
Or maybe they were just showing off because Donnie had his camera out.
Either way, every meal felt like a scene out of a movie.
As for the procedure?
I have never experienced pain like that in my life.
The surgery itself was painless, but the 30 anesthesia shots they pumped into my head?
I wouldnt wish it on my worst enemy.
Once the numbing kicked in, the procedure was finejust long.
Luckily, the staff at Este Nove was incredible and took great care of me throughout.
The day after surgery, though?
By far the worst.
The bandages on the back of my head felt like a cement block glued there.
But once they removed the bandages, I felt like a new man, and the pain quickly faded.
Once the whole crew had their fresh hairlines, it was time to celebrate.
And what better way than on a yacht, recreating the iconic New York Giants boat picture?
It felt like a scene out of a movie.
The weather was perfect, the music set the vibe, and the boys were all in great spirits.
Everywhere I looked, someone was smilingexcept Eddie.
He didnt show up to the yacht, which broke my heart.
There was no reason for him to miss it, but it is what it is.
While Eddie stayed in bed, the rest of us celebrated this new chapter in our lives.
Baldstool was, without a doubt, one of the greatest weeks of my life.
The brotherhood we formed on that trip will last a lifetime.
I cant wait for you guys to see this video.
