Aunt Carol

About 8 years ago, my Aunt Carol (mom's sister) was diagnosed with breast cancer, resulting in a mastectomy, chemo, radiation and reconstructive surgery. She had been cancer free until just this past winter when doctors discovered cancer in her chest cavity (unsure if it is in the lung or the other breast). She was also told she had a spot on her brain. She underwent another round of radiation on her brain and chemo for the rest of the cancer. She had a very difficult time with the chemo, feeling sick all of the time and generally being miserable for about 3 months. After completion of the treatment, she doubted she could handle anymore rounds of chemotherapy. She has looked into holistic methods of treatment, and is currently on a program suggested to her by an herbalogist. She is feeling better than ever, eating all of the proper healthy foods, getting plenty of exercise, rest, prayer and positive thinking. Recent tests have revealed the cancer is still present in other parts of her body and further treatment may not be an option. This has been a great challenge for our family to handle. Carol is married and has a 13 year old daughter. We don't know what God has in store for Carol. We believe HE still heals people from cancer, even when medical treatments are not an option. We have read and talked with several people who have beat cancer through holistic means. Carol is continuing her holistic treatments and is seeking further opinions. We know that she is a believer in Christ and knowing her eternal destiny is the comfort we are clinging to at this time. What would we do if we didn't have any hope in Christ? So, to all of my family and friends who read my blog, please say a prayer for Carol, Joe and Heather, and for the rest of the family who is continually trying to lift them up.

Boy Crazy

Just wanted to share some pics and stories about the boys I am crazy about. My Jacob is approaching his 2nd birthday in just a few weeks. I love hanging out with him. He is full of personality and says new things every day. My favorite thing lately is that every morning when I am changing his diaper, he says "hug mommy", and gives the best, tightest hug every. I eat that up!

Evan is becoming his own little person. He is smiling lots now, sleeping through the night, and is usually a very content baby. When he is tired though, it seems that only Mama will do, which is ok with me for now :-). Both boys love their daddy and the play time they get with him. I'm so happy with my little family God has given me...even Toby the dog.

August Update

Well, things have been as busy as always lately. I can't believe we're into August already. I feel like I've blinked and the summer is almost gone. We've had a jam packed one, that's for sure. Last week, I took Evan for his 2 month check-up. He received his first set of vaccinations, he basically came home, took a bottle and slept for the next 24 hours. He is now back to himself. He weighs 12lb, 11 oz and is 24in long. Good size little boy and very healthy.

I can't believe my Jacob is pushing 2 years old. He makes me laugh every day. He basically says everything now, and he is improving his p's and q's, so that makes me happy. We're in the process of planning a little celebration for his birthday coming up in September, and his Grandma Choate will be in town to celebrate with us.

On Monday, Frank and I enjoyed a night away from the kids (and each other). He went with some friends to the Radiohead concert, and I went out with the girls for dinner and girl talk. We both thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, and the boys enjoyed a night at Grandma's house.

Yesterday, I officially became unemployed, after I submitted my resignation letter to my boss. Things went very well, everyone was very supportive and we all parted on very good terms. Just this morning, I interviewed for a part time position that I think will suit me and fit our needs at least for the next several months, so I am hoping this works out.

I took the boys to get their pictures taken today. Whew! That was a challenge. Evan did splendidly, although we didn't get a very good smile from him. Jacob, on the other hand, basically acted like a normal toddler, and refused to do most things asked of him. Miraculously, We did get a few shots of both boys that came out somewhat nice. After all this activity, I am ready for a good night's rest.