My hernia repair went without a hitch. Looking back I can see how stressed/nervous I felt. The nurses said that my blood pressure was elevated due to my nerves and my hands were cold and clammy the entire time. What really killed me was the wait. You rush to one station just to wait thirty minutes to an hour to move forward.

 My mom (a nurse herself) and my wife accompanied me which was a huge blessing. It made the wait times much more bearable.

 I don’t recall a single part of the procedure. All I remember was being wheeled into the operating room and having my arms strapped down like I was being tied to a “cross”. And then I was in another room altogether. Now I’m sore and bear the stigmata of surgery – iodine stains all over my abdomen, red welts were they stuck tags, a bruise and prick where the IV lay, and of course the scar in my side.

 I find it amazing how the body reacts to stress and how quickly it begins to heal itself. I wish I didn’t need to dope up not to hurt. I feel really dirty. I’m not supposed to shower until Sunday – I’ve got surgery stink!!

 Thanks for all your prayers and thoughts I really appreciated them.

Now I get to look forward to a week of work to recuperate while playing video games and watching movies. It almost makes the pain bearable.

The following took place as I attempted to go to the bathroom. It was late in the afternoon and I needed to sit down and relieve myself. The following “conversation” is as accurate as I can remember. I hate using public restrooms.

Him -What are they talking about?

Me -Nothing. Just talking.

Him -You in Sales or Service?

Me -Sales.

Him -How are your sale this month?

(At this point I have entered the bathroom stall)

Me -Eh, alright.

Him -Mine are hanging around $10k. It’s rough.

*silence*

Him -How was your Thanksgiving?

Me -Good.

Him -Thanksgiving is one holiday I don’t care for.

*silence*

Him -What’s your favorite holiday?

Me -Um, Christmas.

*silence*

Him -Are you married now?

Me -Yes

Him -Have kids?

Me -No

Him -Why not?

Me -Uh, no reason.

Him -Thank God I’m done with kids. I’ve got four one is 17, another is 14, 8, and 6. I can’t wait to be done with the little buggers.

At this point he washed his hands and let me poop in peace…