dear Crankin
your silly health issues aren't small. But yes, be glad you aren't on a table with the doctor doing the "abdominal part" of your surgery.
Dear TE gals

I have received two very positive updates so far from the team. They are in the last leg.. some good news, at least before they went in, they decided to let him keep his gallbladder since it wasn't bothering him. and Catrin, let us know how your mom does too.
I have a private waiting room at the hospital, with a phone, sofa (big enough to sleep on) table, wifi, and tv. three different bike friends have come down here to hold my hand and visit. will let you know when it's done.