To bring this conversation to a close - an update:
I had a Nissen on December 1st. After a few days I felt pretty recovered except for I kept my food very soft. Two weeks later I am still avoiding breads and non-ground meats... although I do stretch the limits on this.
The desired effects of the surgery are very apparent and exceeded my expectations. I have no heartburn - can lay down to sleep - less stomach issues. The only real big adjustment is that my eyes are little bigger than my stomach!
I will not be checking this forum again... my responses may or may not have been present since Halloween since may have or have not spent a month in a psych ward. Obviously I have some bigger fish to fry now.
Anyone looking at this thread - I hope it is helpful - best of luck.