Lucy is still sitting her wooden egg. The real one is neglected in a corner of the cage.

Today I have a routine visit with the hygienist and the dentist.

I might be the only person I know who is not fazed by dental appointments. My dentist is a young, handsome, charming man who grew up with Lyman's boys. We tease each other.

The office staff is frank and funny. I leave laughing.

But then, I've never had a root canal.