There's something not too many folks know: I have some pretty reliable experience with this, and Martha, at my church, will corroborate my research. Post-brain surgery, you will eat more chocolate than you ever thought you could possibly want. That is the only food group there might as well be in the world. It's good to have dear friends who own a candy store if you have to have one of these operations.

I'm tempering the chocolate binges with V8, coffee and Fresca. Those are food groups too, right?

This is one of those Miracle Stories. I feel so awesome, like ten years have gone. Brain surgery can change your personality. I guess a second brain surgery could change you back. Tanya's email this morning read, "Pre-Sc--. WOW." My coworker Sandy said I seem more sure of myself, less "glazed." My boss thinks I'm taller. Isn't that awesome? I always wanted to be taller.

I have butterflies in my stomach. It's like when you're dating someone new, or you have a new job, or you're nearing the top of the ferris wheel. WooHOOO. Life is beginning, and it is so interesting. It's so worth it. Those kind of butterflies tell me that this was a fabulous idea. There is so much ahead, and I'm going to be conscious for ALL of it!