Day One Hundred Eighty-two

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God."  2 Corinthians 1:3-4

The scan results were good.  Thank you, God!!

"Your son has cancer."   Immediately, a flood of emotions rushed through my body...fear, concern, frustration, sadness, anger, pity, love, etc.....all at once.  Weird sensation. 

We didn't know what this meant, but we knew it wasn't good.  We didn't know the next step to take, but knew that there would be one.  We didn't know whether to cry or pray.  So, we did both. 

One hundred  and eighty-two days ago, our family started a journey that we didn't want to take. This wasn't in our plans. This was not supposed to happen.  Not to us.  Not to a four year old boy with such a pure heart and love for our Lord.  

Alas, the journey began anyway, and we quickly realized there were two paths staring us in the face.  One that would let the frustration, anger, the "Why Ryan," and all the similar emotions lead us down a scary path that would stress our family relationships and drift us away from God.  The other path was to run to God for comfort, ask Him to remove our anxieties, ask Him for guidance, and to place complete faith in Him.  As I write this, I ask myself, "Why would anyone take the first path?" Well, I think in the midst of the unknown and emotions, decisions are made without really knowing that there was one to make.  We have met and talked to people that took that first path and are having a difficult time.  Mirjan has prayed with them.  I'm thankful every day that we didn't take that first path.

God has comforted us, guided us, and blessed us in ways unimaginable during this journey.  I'm sure it will be hard for many people to understand why we have felt blessed during this time.  Unless you see, feel, and experience the hundreds of little things, I can see why that would be hard to understand.  But we did experience those things.  God's love displayed over and over, God's orchestration of interactions that touched our hearts and allowed us to touch others, and the strengthening of relationships are just a few of the blessings.

During the journey, the bible was opened a lot more frequently, and we began to lean on God more and more each day.  I still remember the turning point for me...I was about two streets from home and the emotions hit.  We didn't know what we were facing, didn't know if Ryan would be here next Christmas, and I asked God to take control.  I felt this amazing peace come over me.  That night I found the verse 1 Peter 5:7 "Give your anxieties to God because he cares about you."  Later in the week, I was reading Proverbs and read 3:5..."Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your understanding."  That is the verse at the top of our blog, and it has really helped, because who can explain a 4 yr old getting cancer?  I can't.

It was about that time when I started the blog.  I went back and read the "About" section on the blog tonight and thought about when I wrote the following sentence:  "This will document our journey from surprise, to disbelief, witnessing God's healing power, His love displayed through others, and to this being a memory of a son who was sick and then healed."   When I wrote that I had complete faith that God would heal our son, and I went to Him multiple times a day every day during this journey. 

Each evening, I recounted the day's events on our blog.  I started doing this because so many wonderful blessings were being experienced, and I wanted to capture those somewhere.   I also noted the little things that mean so much more to us now.  When Ryan is older and can comprehend what really happened to him and how big this really was, I want him to see "God's love displayed" by so many people, and he will be able to do that by reading this.  I also want him to see that regardless of how difficult a situation is, God can and will guide him through it as He did when he was 4 yr old boy. 

So, this will be the last daily entry in this blog.  I've waited a long time to write that, and I'm so grateful to God that I'm writing it with a healthy son.  For those that have been keeping up with the blog, I hope that it blessed you in some way.  I also hope that this is an example that regardless of how difficult, frustrating, unknown, etc. that a challenge might be, God will get you through it! 

I will conclude the updates to Ryan's Journey with some individual messages:

God

Father, thank you!  As I read the entire blog again and as I recount major changes in myself along the way, I associate those with your grace, love, and healing power.  There were several times that I can still see myself in the moment, remember the vivid details, feel my emotions, and asking You to guide me.  Some of those were very significant and amazing!  You are amazing!  I was going to list some of those times here, but they are between you and me, and I will always cherish and remember those moments.

There are many other instances when I was overwhelmed by Your love, "God's love displayed," as I referenced many times in the blog.  We have experienced Your work through many people.  Many, loving, caring, and giving people who make a difference in sick children's lives daily.  Family traveling across the state and across the country to spend time with Ryan and help out was such a blessing.  Dinners, gifts, activities, fellowship, prayer time with family and friends, and the list goes on.  Father, I ask that You guide me that I can share Your love that I experienced with others that are traveling similar journeys or just need support. 

I truly believe that You worked miracles and Your love was displayed through others throughout this journey.  I am grateful and humbled.

As I read blogs on the internet, daily devotionals, the Bible, I believe I have continued to develop my understanding and relationship with You.  There were two verses that really helped me out as the journey started.  One dealt with the worry that would drive anyone crazy if you don't figure out how to deal with it.  The other deals with the questions that quickly follow a cancer diagnosis in a child.  This one has been at the top of the blog the entire time. 

Thank you, Father, for guiding me to those verses, really hearing Your words, and allowing me to hand over my anxieties and trust completely in You. 

Father, I ask for Your hands of protection over Ryan to keep the cancer away and let him grow into a man serving You.

I also ask that You guide our family on a new journey now.  One that will honor and serve You.  Guide us along a path that will use our gifts to glorify You and bring Your love to others.  Direct us and we will follow.

Ryan

Ryan, you are an amazing and inspiring boy!  You are amazing that your life was changed dramatically and you were determined not to let it impact you as much as I thought it would.  I know that you didn't want to go to the doctor's office for treatments weekly.  I know that you didn't like taking the medicine several times a day, several days a week (sorry, but that will continue for another year).  I know that you didn't like or understand why your tastes changed, your desire to eat was gone, and how your body reacted physically and mentally. Yet, you were a strong boy, continued with normal 4 year old activities, and were generally in good spirits.  You were inspiring to me at how you approached things on a daily basis.  I can't count the number of times that you went to God for help or answers.  I was inspired at your long, thoughtful, caring prayers; none of which included healing for yourself, but thanking God for the people in your life. I was inspired by your questions, that were too mature and direct for your age and told us that God is with you.  I was inspired that every time we got in the car and turned on K-Love that you started singing songs of praise.  Ryan, I did my best to show you all of my love and support during this journey. I remember praying over you and holding you so much, and that strengthened my love for you.  I was determined to do anything in this world for you to get you well, but the glory goes to God. I love you with all of my heart, I thank God every day for you and his healing power, and I hope that you understand one day that so many people demonstrated their care and love for you in God's name.  This journey has and will continue to change you.  I know that you will do wonderful things in your life in His name.  He has a purpose for you, and I can't wait to see the wonders from it. Also, remember that regardless of what challenges that you face in your life, go to God and he will get you through it.  He got you through this one.  I love you, son!

"Be strong in the LORD and,
Never give up hope,
You're going to do great things,
I already know,
God's got His hand on you so,
Don't live life in fear,
Forgive and forget,
But don't forget why you're here,
Take your time and pray"
                                         Sidewalk Prophets

Before and After pictures of Ryan:

Mirjan

How more can a mother show her love and support for her child than you did during this journey? You were gentle and loving when Ryan needed his mother's love, you were firm and consistent to get him to eat and take his medicine, and you were patient when his behavior was unacceptable.  Most of all, you were the caring mother and loving wife who was strong and determined to do everything possible for her son, while maintaining the hundreds of other things that still needed to be done.  There are a couple of things that made me admire and love you even more: 
You were determined to keep his lifestyle as normal as possible.  From birthday parties, coordinating best friend visits, seeking out organizations to get him involved in, getting back into school, etc., you made a huge difference in his daily life. 
You gave Ryan the love and encouragement that he needed from his mommy.  I remember the times when I had to call you in for that special mommy love, which calmed him down and is just what he needed.  It's amazing how that works...and it did many times.
You gave me the support and love that I needed. I wanted to take complete control and make sure everything was done the right way and in Ryan's best interest.  I still remember one of the big chemo weekends when you were on top of everything.  You were telling the nurses what was done and what needed to be done and what not to do. :) It was that weekend when I was able to take a breath and realize, she's got this.  She can handle anything and handle it well.  There was never any doubt, but it made me realize that it's not all on my shoulders, and I truly appreciate you for that.

There were many times that I remember that we both looked at each other and knew, without a doubt, that God was going to guide us through this journey.  Each time I think about them, I get tingly and am amazed.

The first is when we were headed to the hospital for the first surgery, and we heard "What Faith Can Do."  The timing can only be described as unbelievable, and we both felt a clear message:  You are about to start a journey that is going to be more challenging than anything you have encountered..."Put your faith in Me and let Me guide you!"    I can't count the number of times that I have listened to that song since then, but it has been many and that's why it's at the top of the blog.

When I think about us in this journey, I remember talking, crying, and praying on the couch that first week.  My love for you couldn't have been stronger!  You are an amazing woman, wife, and mother. I thank God for blessing me with you every day.   Thank you, Mirjan!  I love you!

Davianna

Davianna, this journey was harder on you than you showed.  Ryan's mood swings, due to the food and chemo, impacted you the most.  Ryan also received a lot of attention and gifts, and I know that was hard for you to understand that for a while.   Thank you for being such a strong, big girl with more patience than a 6 year old should have! I enjoyed our many talks about Ryan and your feelings, and I hope that I gave you the love and comfort that you wanted and needed.  We went through this journey as a family, and wanted you to feel completely included in all activities: from the child life specialist discussions, to the treatments, and the fun activities.  We enrolled you in Super Sibs! and you really demonstrated that you were a super sibling during this journey!  There are two pictures that always remind me of your love during this time: One is when you first saw Ryan after several days of tests and surgeries.  He was on his knees and stomach on the hospital bed, and you just put your head on his back and held him tight with love.  The other is when Ryan arrived home after a big treatment, and you were holding him while you watched TV. I saw pure love and caring as you took care of your little brother. You have also been a tremendous help to your mother and I with many things throughout the journey.  You were always aware of what was going on and took action when needed, most of the times without being asked.  You are truly a wonderful big sister, and Ryan and Emma are blessed to have you take care of them as you do.  Thank you, princess!  I love you with all of my heart! 

Emma 

Emma, you probably won't remember this journey when you are older.  However, you played a significant part in the love and healing process.  The most vivid picture that I remember is soon after Ryan's hair fell out and he was laying on the couch. You would stand on your tip toes and kiss his head.  There were countless times when I could see his emotions and attitude change as you ran up to him, hugged him and kissed him.  You displayed pure love and joy for your brother, and it made a huge difference during this journey.  Every time that I would look at the blog on the computer or his pictures on the phone, you would yell Ryan's name (Ry Ry) with joy when you saw his picture. His spirits would be immediately lifted. I can't count, but I can be assured it was more than once a day, that you hugged Ryan, kissed him, tackled him, jumped on him, or yelled his name in joy, and those actions brightened his mood.  You were like the little "mood fixer."  If Ryan was really feeling down and I couldn't get him to smile, I would ask you to go kiss him or I would put you on top of him.  Immediately his mood was "fixed!"   Thank you for your constant joy and love throughout this journey that you didn't know was occurring.  You are so precious, and I love you with all of my heart!

Everyone Else (The "God's loved displayed" people)

I don't think I can adequately describe the gratitude for everyone who touched our hearts during this journey!  Acquaintances, volunteers, friends, the church family, and our family all went well out of their way to provide care, help, and love.  You have touched our hearts and made such a great impact on our lives during a challenging time.  We are grateful and truly thankful.  May God bless you and your families!

Below is a video that I created from the pictures, verses, and songs from the blog.  Password is "pville'

One last note...if you 'happened' upon this link, and have a story to share, I would love to hear it.  Please comment and include your email address, and I will respond.  I plan on following up with another blog following this journey.

Take care, be strong, and God bless.

Day One Hundred Eighty-one

"So don't lose your confidence. It will bring you a great reward." Hebrews 10:35

Well, we expected to find out the results of the scans today, but it won't be until tomorrow.  Mirjan called to inquire about them, but there weren't any nurses available at the time, so she left a message.  I called around 4:30 and was told that all the nurses were gone for the day.  When I got home, there was a message at 4:55 from a nurse wanting to share the results with us.  However, the office closes at 5, so when I called back, it went straight to voicemail.  I fully believe that the results will be good, but it's hard to wait....especially when you know that the results are in.  Lord, please let us hear good news.

Mirjan and the kids spent several hours at the dealer today.  I got in the car on Sunday, and saw that the engine light was on.  I let Mirjan know that if any of the lights come on that it's kind of important to let me know. :)  So, she was a trooper and took it in today.  They told her that it wasn't going to be covered under the extended warranty, and that isn't what I exactly wanted to hear today.  They were able to find a TSB associated with the issue, so there wasn't a charge after all.  I subscribe to a free service that emails me the TSB summary information when a new one is issued, but I don't recall that one and couldn't find it in the database either.  However, I did find the TSB on google and saw the details about the issue and the fix.  When I asked Mirjan what the service manager told her, she said he mumbled something technical to her. :)  Oh, well, I feel better that the issue is resolved.  And this is the first real issue that we have had with the car in four years.  Thank you, Mirjan, for spending the morning at the dealer! 

When I got home, everyone was at the grocery store.  I guess it was a day of errands for the family.  Mirjan came home with an extra little person and after dinner, they went to the sprinkler park in our neighborhood.  It was already turned off for the evening, so Mirjan guided them to the sprinklers in the grass. :)  They had a wonderful time!

Davianna, Ryan, and I talked about going to California at bed time.  They had lots of questions and were getting excited.  As I was putting Davianna to sleep, she wanted to read a book and was determined to read to me.  After a while, Mirjan came in and she read to her for a while.  I love it when Davianna really gets into a book!   Emma is starting to be the same way too.  She will bring me a book, sit in my lap, and want me to read to her.  She loves it!....and so do I!

It was a long day for Mirjan and the kids, but a good day!

Father, thank you for another healthy day for Ryan and for continuing to strengthen his body.  I see his energy level increasing weekly, and am grateful.  Thank you for Mirjan and all that she does every day!  She is a blessing to me.   I ask for good scan results tomorrow and that you continue to keep Ryan healthy and strong.  I pray in Jesus' name.  Amen.

Day One Hundred Eighty

"The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork." Psalm 19:1

Ryan did great today even though it was a very long day.   He and I arrived at the hospital around 6:30, and we were ready to get all the tests done.  However, since we were just there for tests, I think our priority status was about as low as it could go in hospital terms.  I completely understand that emergencies should bump us, but being there for almost 11 hours for about 2-3 hours of actual tests and preparation was tiring.  We did work to get all of the tests done in one day, which was great, and all the people were wonderful!

Ryan got a blood test, then had to drink some medicine with contrast for the CT, then had to have some radioactive material injected into his port for the bone scan, and then he got to play a little bit with the scooters.

After playing on just about every scooter, and then games on the phone, we played "Break the Ice."

Then we went to get the CT scan.

We then talked to the anethesiologist and thought that we were ready for the final two tests.  That's when the bumping really began.  So, after a while a nurse asked if I thought Ryan would be able to lie still for the bone scan and not go under for that.  Uh, we might as well try. :)  So, we did the bone scan and Ryan was very still.  He actually fell asleep after about 5 minutes.  It was really interesting watching the scan, which took about 40 minutes.  The technology is amazing!

Here are sample pictures pulled from the web, which is very similar to what I was seeing on the screen.  They really focused on the bright white spots, which shows activity.  Ryan had a lot because he was a growing boy, so they focus further to see if there are significant differences on each side of the body. 

After we were done with that, Ryan played on the scooters again.  The nurse said it would be at least another 3 hours before we could do the MRI.   Ryan was running on about 16 hours without any food at that time, and I wasn't sure how much longer he was going to go before he demanded something to eat.  That meant it would be at least 20 hours between any food.  So, we played some more and then the girls showed up and wanted to play too!

When it was time for the MRI, Mirjan and the girls went up to the oncology floor, talked to the child life folks, played in the toy room, and ran into Ryan's doctor.  He asked what were we still doing here. We had already asked that question.  :)  It sounded like they had a good time, and saw a lot of good people.

I went back with Ryan, filled out all the paperwork ("Does he have any metal in him?"  "Uh, not that I know of.").  There was a new anethesiologist because he said the other one's shift was over.  Then I prayed with Ryan, and watched him go to sleep with the cherry gas.  I think I might have dozed off in the waiting room then.  After about an hour, they called me back and he was waking up.  I sent a text to Mirjan, and they came down.  They helped get him up and going and we headed out.  Ryan wanted to  ride on my shoulders to the car, so he did.

Mirjan ran by and picked up his favorite food, and we all met back home.  All the way home, he kept asking "Where's my food?"  :)  Hmmm, that's something we don't hear often.  So, he didn't need much encouragement eating tonight.

 Father, thank you for being with Ryan today and letting the tests be safe.  Thank you for the care and love shown to him by many people today.  Thank you for guiding us to this point, and I pray in Jesus' name that the scan results are good tomorrow.  Father, please let my little boy be healed and continue to strengthen his body and keep him healthy.  I am grateful for your blessings and comfort!  Amen.

Day One Hundred Seventy-nine

"All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God  may be competent, equipped for every good work." 
2 Timothy 3:16-17

Ryan just gets cooler every day.  I don't think I was that cool at that age, and I love it when he is in his "cool mode."   He ran and gave me a hug when I got home, and I don't want that to ever end.  There was actually a line for hugs when I got home.  Awesome! 

Emma was blaming everything on Ryan tonight.   Every time I would ask who did something, she was immediately say, "Ry Ry!"  Ryan thought it was funny at first, then he was getting a little upset, but he would still smile.  "I didn't do it, Emma!"   "Who did it?"  "Ry Ry!"   "I didn't do it, Emma!"  "Who did it?"  "Ry Ry!"  "EMMA!!! I DIDN'T DO IT!"   And then she would laugh.

Mirjan took the kids to the pool this evening and they met some of their friends there.  Then they played outside for a while when they came home.  I saw a couple of kids run through the house just ignoring me. :)  They should sleep well tonight, which is a good thing because we have to get up early tomorrow.

Ryan and I will leave around 5:45 or so in the morning and head to the hospital.  Davianna said she wants to go with us, but we'll see.  She might sleep in and come later with the girls.  Tomorrow will be a long day; the doctor said we will probably be there the entire day.

So, I'm praying that the tests are safe tomorrow and that Ryan recovers quickly.  He will be under for several hours.  When we get there, he will need to get a solution for the scans, then he will have a CT.  Afterward, he will have a MRI and a bone scan.  God, please be with my little boy.   I'm hoping that we know the results of the tests on Wednesday.

That's about it for today.  I'm going to try and get to bed early, so I don't start snoring in the waiting room tomorrow.

Father, thank you for guiding us to this point in the journey.  Thank you for comforting and strengthening us.  Thank you for keeping Ryan strong and healthy, and I pray that you surround him with your hands of protection tomorrow.  In Jesus' name I ask that the tests show that the cancer is gone, that his body has been healed, and that you continue to keep him healthy.  I am grateful for all you have done during this journey, and I ask that we complete this and start a new one of giving, caring, and love.  Amen.

Day One Hundred Seventy-eight

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."  Jeremiah 29:11





Happy Birthday, Mirjan!!  I love you!!

We slept a little late today, so we made it to the late service.  However, before we headed to church, the kids gave Mirjan their cards and gifts.  They were probably more excited than Mirjan!  The kids and I picked up a little bit before we left, because there was a surprise coming later in the day.

After church, Mirjan was getting ready to take Emma a nap, and the doorbell rang.  It was Pops and Mama Elise with a huge bouquet of flowers.  Mirjan was speechless.  Surprise!   They were driving across country and timed it perfectly!  So, we spent the day with them...and their little dog.  They took us out to dinner to celebrate Mirjan's 35th or 38th or 22nd or something birthday.  Will and Marielk stopped by the restaurant and brought Mirjan some flowers and a gift.  That was so nice of them, and Mirjan was really happy.

The evening was relaxing, but definitely not quiet.  It's never quiet at our house, and I'm thankful. 

Here are some pictures from the day: 

It seemed like a short day, but fun.  I'm glad that we were able to spend time with them today, and it looks like we will spend a week with them in August too!   It was a good day.

Father, thank you for the blessing of love and family.  Thank you for the blessing of a wonderful wife and a day to celebrate her.  I ask that you be with Pops and Elise and let them have safe travels.  Please continue to strengthen Ryan's body and keep him healthy.  In Jesus' name I pray.  Amen.

Day One Hundred Seventy-seven

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds." Hebrews 10:24

Today was a good day for Ryan.  He was able to spend the evening with his friends, and he had too much energy.

Ryan, Emma, and I ran around for a little bit this morning, while Mirjan and Davianna were decorating for the baby shower.  Ryan used up the gift card that he got for his birthday.  Actually, he went over by almost two dollars, so he will have to do some extra chores. :)  We came home, ate lunch, and then I put Emma down for a nap.

Mirjan and Davianna stopped by, picked up some stuff, and then headed back to prepare for the baby shower with Ryan.  Mirjan was running short of time, but she finished the cake and it looked amazing.  Here is a picture of her cake, as well as the diaper cake she made earlier in the week.

Amazing work!  God bless Will and Marielk and their little baby. 

We didn't get home until 10:30, so the kids were wiped out and went to be fast.  That's it for tonight.

Father, thank you for blessing Ryan with a healthy, good day.  Thank you for Mirjan and her amazing talents.  I ask that you be with Will and Marielk as they prepare for their own journey with a new baby.  Please guide them each day and keep them all healthy.  Father, I ask that you continue to strengthen Ryan's body and keep his immune system strong.  In Jesus' name I pray.  Amen.

Day One Hundred Seventy-six

"Love others as you find them, not as you wish they were." Upper Room

Ryan didn't get sick when his port was accessed today, but when the band-aid was being put on, he did.  We're getting closer!   The results were really good, which is a great thing!  Mirjan took care of everything today, and did a wonderful job as always.  Ryan is doing much better with the medicine that he has to take 6 times a week.  He doesn't really complain at all anymore.  That medicine will continue for another six months or so.

The kids were in a great mood when I got home.  I received a lot of hugs and there was a lot of excitement.  Awesome!

Since there is a special day coming up this weekend, Davianna, Ryan, and I went shopping.  I let them each pick out something for someone special, and they were really excited.  Davianna is a shopper at heart, and she reminds me of her mother.  They haven't told anyone what we picked up......yet.....so it is still a surprise.  (If you find out, you don't get it!)

After bath time, I played with the kids and had a blast.  I think I got on Ryan's nerves a little bit, but he kept coming back for more.  Then Davianna started teaming up with him.  Emma would just hit me and then run away laughing.  Three against one!  The only way out was super tickling mode.  They are such a blessing.

Mirjan is still working on all of the baby shower stuff and doing an amazing job.  She does an amazing job at everything! 

It was a good day!

Father, thank you for blessing Ryan with another healthy day.  Thank you for the time our family can spend together each day, and thank you for all of us looking forward to it and enjoying it.  I am grateful.  I ask that you continue to strengthen Ryan's body and keep him healthy.  Please be with Elisa and let the treatment be effective.  Please comfort and guide her family.  In Jesus' name I pray.  Amen.

Day One Hundred Seventy-five

"Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." Matthew 6:9-10

I love getting hugs when I get home from work.  It is one of life's sweetest blessings.   The kids need to train Mirjan, but sooner or later she will come running too.....maybe. :)

Mirjan's doctor appointment finally happened today.  She had three little ones to get ready and be there by 8:30 or so.   Her tests came back from two weeks ago and everything was good!!   The doctor did prescribe her some medicine and has a plan b and c, but we felt much better with the news.  Thank you, Lord!

I talked to Ryan for a while tonight about the doctor's visit tomorrow and next Tuesday.  Then he asked me a question that I did not expect.  He asked that if everything looked good after the tests, could he get a new testicle.  What??  Uh, yeah, Ryan, we can pick one up at Walmart on the way home.  I'm not sure where that came from, but I told him that he is perfect with one.  We talked about that for a while.  I'm trying to understand how that popped into his head, but I'm not sure.

After the kids were in bed, Davianna came out and said her ankle was hurting.  I checked it out, and then she started asking 100 questions about cancer.  Alot of them were ones that the lifecare folks had answered several months ago.  So, she asked her very good questions for about 15 minutes.  I think she just wanted a specific answer of why someone gets cancer.  It was really a good conversation, and it seemed like I was talking with a teenager, not a child.  When she couldn't think of any more questions, she headed back to bed.

Father, thank you for the blessings of loving children.  Thank you for the wonderful conversations and curious minds.  Thank you for the news from the doctor about Mirjan!  Father, I ask that you be with Ryan tomorrow and comfort his mind.  Let the blood test be safe, and I ask that you continue to strengthen his body and keep him healthy.  In Jesus' name I pray.  Amen.

Day One Hundred Seventy-four

"Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past." Isaiah 43:18

Ryan was in a good mood again today.  We are really starting to see that sweetness come out again that we have missed for a while.  It's such a blessing to see that.  He truly has such a good heart.

Random updates tonight: 

Mirjan made her famous meatloaf, and it was amazing!  Her cooking has gotten better with her age, and since she started cooking at the age of nine (yes, really), each night is a treat.  I'm a lucky man!  

She has a birthday coming up, but she already has her gift.  How did that happen?  Well, she came home a couple of months ago with a big box of pots and pans.  She thanked me for her early birthday gift.  Really?  We can do that?  I like that rule, so I'll have to remember that for my birthday next year. :)  

Emma really is developing a wonderful sense of humor.  She loves teasing me and just starts laughing.  She is so much fun!

Bob, Kendra, Mathew, and Andrew came by for a while tonight, and we had a nice visit.  Davianna and Ryan loved playing with the kids.  They are really nice people, and are such a blessing.

Mirjan talked to Elisa's mother this evening, and she said that she is going through an aggressive chemo and radiation treatment every day for at least the next 15 days.  Please, Lord, be with that little girl.

Not much else today.  Hurry up Tuesday.  I'm thankful for the moments with the family today.

Father, thank you for blessing us with the time together today.  Thank you for the beautiful smiles of little children and laughter in the house.  I am grateful for your wonderful blessings!  Father, I ask that you continue to strengthen Ryan's body and keep him healthy.  In Jesus' name I pray.  Amen.

Day One Hundred Seventy-three

"Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving." Colossians 4:2

Ryan was on the computer when I got home, and he was fully engaged.  He has really gotten into the computer over the past six months or so and can navigate quite well.  Davianna was patiently waiting her turn, and Emma was just running around making noise.  Everyone seemed in a good mood and there were no house shoes flying tonight. :)  Emma's comprehension is absolutely amazing.  At times it seems that she is in my mind because she knows what I am going to do next and will try to do that for me. 

I enjoyed listening to Mirjan's phone conversation with someone at the grocery store this evening.  She called and asked them if they had guava paste.  As she was explaining it, I was throwing in my own commentary and amusing myself.  She said it was in a tint can (the can had it's windows tinted?), and it was probably on a shelf (no, it was in a drawer) in the hispanic food section.   Then she spelled it, and I told her if she has to spell it for them, they don't have it.  They did find guava jelly, but no guava paste.  Maybe they put it in the toothpaste section?  Or with the glue?  It looks like a trip to Fiesta is in order to pick that up.  Thank you for letting me humor myself, Mirjan.  I love you!

Mirjan has been busy all week getting ready for the baby shower she is hosting.  It will get really crazy in the next several days as she is determined to create more wonders.  She was cleaning the house tonight, and said that she needs to get it clean before "she" messes it up again with the baby shower stuff.  When she starts baking and decorating, I'm sure that she is going to have some help making a mess.  In particular, a little girl named Emma will provide great assistance.

Mirjan talked to Elisa's mother tonight, and things have taken a real turn for the worse.  She went back into the hospital yesterday because of a high fever, so Mirjan was going to go see her tonight.  However, she was flown back to Houston today.  The doctors told her mom that her condition is really bad.  Mirjan sent her a text at 10pm, and she was getting another chest x-ray at that time.  The doctor also said to call Make-A-Wish and try and move up their trip.  They called Mirjan about 10:30, and Mirjan talked with them.  Elisa asked if we could pray for her, so we prayed with her on the phone.  It's hard to understand.  Please, Lord, be with her and her family. 

Father, I am truly grateful for every healthy day that you bless Ryan with.  I am grateful that we are at this point in the journey and that Ryan is doing well.  I ask that you continue to guide us and strengthen his body.  It has been difficult, but we also see that other families are going through even more challenging experiences.  I ask that you be with them, comfort them, and guide them.  Please be with Elisa and strengthen her body.  In Jesus' name I pray.  Amen.