Wednesday January 3rd

Good Morning. Well we all survived 2006! Some people say to us "well the new year can't be any worse than last year". Through my life I have learned to NEVER, NEVER, NEVER think it can't get any worse. And I feel cursed when I hear this comment. So please if you see me, don't tell me it can't get any worse. I would rather reflect on how life is a constant learning experience and each year brings growth and wisdom, even if you don't want to grow or be wiser!

The real reason for this post is to tell everyone that we just returned from Alex's 3rd MRI. Dr. Nick (Pediatric Oncologist) says the tumor has shrunk slightly and that is okay. He explained that the slow process of shrinking has begun and will continue even after chemo treatments end.

Personally, I am just focusing on how much stronger and louder and better Alex has become. His soft voice is gone and he can now yell as loud as any kid (that's good and bad). He has been riding his new Superman bike around the dining room every day (without his feet being strapped to the pedals for control) and at times we see Alex just being a typical four year old boy. That is the best part - the normal, previously unappreciated little things that make my heart sing.

Luckily Steve was able to come to the MRI this morning. Alex got a lot of security from his dad being there with him. Zoe fell asleep in the car on the way home and would not be left alone in the creative play center this morning. We all had a very early morning and I am sure naps are in our future!

Alex is eating his waffles now and watching his shows. We took him to Macaroni Grill last night so he could have the fettucini alfredo with lots of grated cheese! He ate and ate and ate. When we got home he told us his tummy hurt from eating too much noodles, cheese and milk. We told him that perhaps next time he should listen to his body and stop eating when he feels full. He agreed wholeheartedly.

Alex had to get the dreaded "butterfly bite" this morning. He debated all morning until the anethesia kicked in whether to leave it in or have it taken out. He finally decided to have it taken out and just get another one tomorrow morning for chemo. I thought that was such a big boy choice!

On a very sad note, Steve's aunt died last week from pancreatic cancer. While the death was not unexpected it was heartbreaking. Susan lived a full life but never got to meet our dear Zoe before her diagnosis. My prayers go out to my mother and father-in-law and Steve for closure and peace.

Well, my sister's family made it to Colorado Monday evening FINALLY!! They stayed one night then left for the mountains yesterday morning. Alex and Zoe just loved having cousin Evan here to play with them. We were all sad to see them leave but they will return and stay Saturday night then depart on Sunday (unless another blizzard should occur!!) They missed out on four days of their ski vacation due to the last two blizzards making the interstates from Oklahoma to Colorado impassable. These storms seem to be more than just a mild inconvenience for some and I pray that everyone with starving cattle and without power get some relief soon.

Okay, that's the update. I updated the blog to a new version of blogger. It says you can post a comment by hitting the " 0 comments" link at the end of each blog. I can't wait to hear from you all.

Have a great day! God bless.
G