December 30, 2006

We have had a wonderful Christmas break! The girls had a great time getting ready for Santa and anticipating what he might bring. Santa may have gone a little overboard this year, but it was worth it. We also prepared for Jesus' birthday by baking a birthday cake for Him. While we don't seem to have accomplished a great deal during our time off, we have been enjoying relaxing a bit more and not having to go too many places. Chris, Leah, Chloe and I saw Charlotte's Web and enjoyed it. The girls and I read that book earlier this summer. We also did a little socializing with some friends we had not seen in far too long. It has felt great to be normal. However, we do have an Iowa City trip looming on January 4th. This is for CT and blood work, where they will check the AFP again. I hate worrying about these visits-they seem to come around all too frequently. While in many ways 2006 was a year filled with a lot of worry and sadness, the last six months have been filled with healing and happiness. In some ways it would be wonderful to freeze time and continue as we are right now. While we know that is not possible, we continue to pray that Leah is healed here on earth and remains cancer-free. Over break I have had some time to re-read some email messages and cards that were sent when Leah was first diagnosed. I also managed to run across the notes I had to take when we were receiving chemotherapy instruction...very different emotions involved in those experiences. We continue to be grateful for our family and friends and all the prayers that people continue to say for Leah. We are hopeful for health and happiness for all in 2007. Happy New Year!