KirkGeorgia and to anyone else that is interested:
No PEG here and they told me if I maintained my weight, it is unlikely they would do one the last week of radiation. Then again, I would have to allow that to happen since ultimately I would have to authorize the procedure. In any case, taking 5 Ensure+ or Boost+ by mouth has kept my weight steady as long as I drink enough water. There is some stinging deep in the throat, but washing down a glass of water cancels that minor discomfort. Actually the Ensure+/Boost+ regime goes down pretty smooth at room temperature. Still I miss eating, but maintain some sanity by continuing to cook for the rest of the household.

They are also not expecting to have to do surgery, though that will be determined around the 8th week. Even if there is surgery, they think it will be minor to remove what is left of the submandular lymph nodes.

Thanks for the good words shared. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those who are traveling similar paths.