I’m laying in a hotel bed in Chapel Hill, NC.  Far from our mountain home, my fireplace, my chair, my view, my dog.  But the true love of my life is sleeping next to me.  For that, I’m forever grateful.  It’s 6AM and I’ve got to be at the hospital to check in at 9:30.  Surgery will begin sometime after preparation. Expect it to last 5-6 hours with 3-5 days in the hospital.  I spoke by phone last night with my long time friend and endocrinologist, Dr. Michael Altheimer. It was good and reassuring to hear his thoughts and laugh about life.  We’ve been through at lot together.  I hope and pray that my family will find comfort today and know that I am at peace.  See you on the other side of the surgery later this afternoon.  Can’t wait to get home.