The gift of planning

Yesterday I had a realization; this hospitalization will be the first one, (aside from childbirth) in which I will be prepared, and be able to pack a bag for myself. It is planned, and I feel emotionally ready for it. That makes such a difference. I think it'll take the trauma out of this all, please Gd. I feel ready. [I just try to not think about the actual surgery itself... cutting and pulling out pieces, etc. We just don't go there.]

Robert & I were trying to plan the Shabbat that I will be in the hospital. We have a wonderful offer from our Modi'in friends which may be what we will go with; for Robert & the kids to be there for the Shabbat, and they can see me on Friday without having to travel a long way home before Shabbat. BUT, Robert said that he really wants to be at our Shul (synagogue) that weekend because it is a special celebration of an elderly member of our community doing a Bar-Mitzvah for himself... for the first time. He has specifically asked my son Dov to honor him with "Anim Z'mirot" (A song at the conclusion of the service which responsive, and traditionally a young boy leads it). So, it turns out that this couple (the elderly one having the Bar Mitzvah) are friends of my parents', and it'd be great if my parents joined in the Simcha, as well. So that would mean that everyone in my family would be in Be'er Sheva, and I'll still be in hospital. So basically I'm wondering.... anyone out here in blog-reading land want to spend that Shabbat with me in the hospital in Tel Aviv? We could work out where you'd stay nearby. I know (from experience) that Shabbat in the hospital can be very lonely, but I want my parents and family to enjoy the simcha with our community.

Anyone want to hang with me (we're talking about the Shabbat of 7th-8th August)?

My parents just arrived this evening! It's good to see them... they'll be here for three weeks...

Please Gd this will be a positive visit with no surprises. Please Gd.