Field Day

Tanner had field day at school and we went along to watch the fun. But, how can you stand by just watching? The girls readily joined in and they all had a fabulous time!

Today's chemo

Something on the night before chemo is amiss at our house. JR and I can always tell when chemo is the next day, because for some reason no sleep is to be found. Sweet Gracie couldn't sleep much because she had such bad aches. Ever since chemo first started, her Vincristine makes her muscles and joints aches. But, we found it strange that she hadn't had chemo in a month and it still affects her. It makes me wonder if it's something she'll suffer with the rest of her life, or if (hopefully) it will pass in a year and a half when treatments are finally over. Eva woke up with the roosters at the crack of dawn, and today managed to jump out of her crib. The thud on the floor was rattling!

Chemo went pretty well today. Her blood counts are higher than the doctors would like, because during maintenance they want them to consistently be between 750 and 1500. But, they think the month's worth of chemo will take care of that. She has been fighting a stomach bug, so that's most likely the reason for the higher count of 2500. Her numbers spike a bit when she's not feeling 100%. Otherwise chemo went very fluently. Grace set a new record today!!! Accessing her port (needle into her chest port) is really tough for her, but she did it in 8 minutes flat! WOW! We have a system for accessing her port and so that she can be in control-the nurse doesn't come near with the needle until Grace counts to 3. When she got to two she was having trouble and I said "all I know is any girl who can ride SPlash Mountain (thank you Disneyland!) at the age of 5 can do anything!" She shouted out 3!!! She constantly amazes me with her fortitude and bravery! Her nurse was cheering. So awesome! She starts her monthly round of steroids tonight. Things are going pretty well for little Grace. By the way, highlight of the Disneyland trip (thank you so much Grandma and Grandpa!) besides all the wonderful things, was to hear Grace state, "I don't even feel like I have Leukemia." Music to our ears!

And, we're off!!!

Though she's not done for two years, there are good reasons to celebrate all throughout treatment. One is that she has made is to maintenance. Gracie has been SO strong, and now is SO excited to celebrate at Grandma and Grandpa's house and at Disneyland. Way to go, strong Gracie!

"I have heard there are troubles of more than one kind. Some come from ahead and some come from behind. But I've bought a big bat. I'm all ready you see. Now my troubles are going to have troubles with me!"
Dr. Suess

We are so excited to visit Utah and Disneyland!

This is just a reminder about the potluck we will be having on Friday the 8th at Shele and Glen's house (1411 Perry's Hollow Dr. 84103). The hours are from 5:30-7:30, so please bring your favorite dish and help us celebrate. Although we hate to remind everyone, it is very important, if you or anyone around you has been ill within the last two days of the party please refrain from coming. Although we would love to see all of you, the risk of Grace being hospitalized is too great to ignore. Thank you and we are sorry if for some reason you are not able to attend.