To my ASA family...
thank you for your replies and forgive me for not answering
individually!

it has been really hectic getting the pre-op done, the PT appts,
and...tada! found a nurse to take care of my Dad while I am out of
commission <big grin!> I had to track her down...she took care of an
old friend when she was dying and I just loved her--but for the life
of me, I could not remember her new married name. Finally talked with
an agency that knew her and things took off from there...and I am
pleased to say that my Mum is all right with it <smile> she remembers
how much I liked her and spoke of her so she doesn't feel like she is
a total stranger...
so I feel like I have done my best and will wait the results in peace.

and thanks for the fyi on taxes on that lump sum--which goes back to
my LTD carrier! and now I still have to think of taxes (!?!)...poo!

I feel myself going into the usual meditative mood...not worry, etc.
so much as making peace and gathering my courage (world's biggest CS!)
surgery doesn't get easier, does it? I absolutely retched when I was
in the midst of the pre-op stuff...I wanted to run out of that place,
be miraculously "fixed"...ok, so I allowed myself about 10 minutes of
hysterical thinking then finished what needed done...

all of you will remain in my prayers! and COOL has the names of all
who have requested prayers, good thoughts, etc.---plus a few that
didn't ask but seem to be in distress...and prayers of thanksgiving
have been said, too. so often we forget to give thanks.
and I do thank you for being there for me always...in some small way,
I hope you knew I was with you, also.
My love to you,
donnah