I've had a murmur for years that is getting worse, so I'm looking at surgery to correct the valve.

Relax - I am pretty sure that this is routine stuff and not very risky. Or have you heard something different?

So looks like I have to make a will,

You mean you don't already have one? Since you are married with a kid and in your 40's, you should not be without one. Not necessarily because of the surgery (which I am sure will be a great success), but because you have assets. All of my IRAs and CDs are listed as payable on death to Andy and his are listed as payable on death to me. We have both had wills since we were in our mid 40's just in case of the unexpected.

So far, I've only figured out who will get my Meadow Soprano videos - I figure those will go to Mike Beane. All other stuff is a toss-up.

Now don't be morbid. On second thought, why change at this late date <g> ?