Last night we went to family reading night at the kids' school. It was a fun event full of hands on activities and magical stories. I think books take you to another place-I guess that's why I'm a library junky. But, amidst the enchantement and fun last night was a subtle reminder of why Cancer bites.
One of the hands on activities of the night was frying up Green Eggs and Ham...in ode to Dr. Suess. Such fun...until Grace burned her hand on the griddle. The thing is, Grace didn't make so much as a fuss about it. After the kids filed out from the activity, Grace mentioned very quietly that she burned her finger, but said "I'm alright, it doesn't hurt much."
When we were getting in the car to return home, I noticed her face changed and she burst into tears. She said, " I just feel so awful, and my finger just burns, but I didn't want to tell you because I didn't want to have to leave the fun...I ALWAYS have to miss everything because I'm sick!"
It was like a punch in my gut. I realize that she misses a lot of school, a lot of birthday parties and a LOT of events. But, the remarkable thing is that Grace handles it quite demurely and sweetly, so it's hard to understand the gravity of it weighing on her. I guess it's a good reminder to us that her struggle is so potent, and so challenging, yet in the face of it all she is controlled and purely good.
Lance Armstrong shared in a battled with Cancer. He said, "I take nothing for granted. I now have only good days, or great days." Grace seems to get that life...moments...are precious. I wish Cancer didn't have to teach her that, but I'm sure humbled by what she's taught me in the face of adversity.
A lot has been going on lately so we haven't had much time to post. We went swimming during an event with Candlelighters, a children's cancer group. The kids loved it and wanted Ben to enjoy the water. He loved it and did not want to leave. I think it was because he was having a great time showing off his hot bod. Grace and Tanner's school had a sock hop and although Tanner avoided all the pictures they all had a great time. Grace and Eva danced the night away and Tanner, the 6th grader he is, socialized with the ladies. We just got back from the beach which was awesome. 70 degress and no wind is rare on the Oregon coast. We played all day, climbing sand dunes, collecting sea shells, and playing with Belles. Of course, since we were on the West side of town we had to hit up 5 guys burgers and fries on our way back. I can't think of a more perfect day. Spring break starts tomorrow and Kim has a ton of fun things planned for the kids. We are starting to feel the effects of spring and can't wait to dry out. Grace has Chemo and a spinal tap planned for Friday, so we are trying to get all the fun things done before chemo strikes. We hope you are all doing well.
