Sophia is off to surgery. She seems quite nervous, but of course everyone is being really kind and upbeat so that helps. I really like the surgeon. Sophia asked, "Am I going to die?" He said, "Of course not, why would you think that?" Sophia: "Sometimes people die in surgery." Dr: "Not this kind." He then gave an impressive statistic about how many surgeries are performed in the U.S. every day. Sophia is impressed by statistics, so that helped. He went on to say that this time he would play Lady Gaga in the operating room and might even dance for her. They must have discussed music sometime for him to know Gaga is her favorite. (After the last surgery, he alluded to doing a dance, so I think he's serious about that.) It's nice having a surgeon with a goofy side. Gary said, "Sophia's used to that." Referring to himself, obviously. :)

I was thinking last night how thankful I am to have an ex-husband (former spouse, for a more PC term) that is so easy to get along with. I can't imagine how difficult it would be to have to share in something so emotional an intimate with someone who is jerky or belligerent. I have really great people in my life. Thank you to everyone for all of your kindness. I'm amazed at how powerful a text, email or comment can be. Thanks to all visitors and those offering help. Bruce and Angela, I know how stressful and crazy your life has been lately, so I'm really humbled by your consideration.

The volunteer in the waiting room just called to update me. She said they started the actual surgery, Sophia calmed down a bit (with a chuckle, I wonder if she was laying eggs again) and everything was going well. Oh, I forgot to mention that today in the waiting area, the TV option was only a step down from the election coverage on the scale of unbearable television. Live: New Kids on the N'Sync, or whatever the latest boy band is. Can't remember their name... Anyway, they are AWFUL! Somehow we saw them the other day on T.V. we (Sophia, Chris and I) were making fun of them. We only watched for a minute, but I pretty much had the song memorized after that. Well, guess what's running through my head right now? "Oh-oh-oh-oh oh-oh-oh-oh." (Repeat 3 times.) "Something something something something (pause) "And live while you're young!" OK, so I don't have the lyrics down, but the tune is STUCK. Anyway, I'm here at The Night Shift again while I wait. I'm going to put on headphones and try my best to purge this tune, but I'll keep in close touch.