Brian has passed on the "blogging torch" tonight and headed up for a shower before we settle down for our late dinner here.

After a middle of the night arrival, I was lying on the couch this morning listening to the sounds of Brian and Jacob doing the morning diaper change and developing their plan to "scare" Aunt Rebecca awake when they came down.  So I squelched my urge to run up and say hi and dutifully played my part hiding under the blanket like I was asleep.  Jacob pulled back the blanket and “scared” me with the hugest grin on his face and he had a great big welcoming hug for me.  Brian looked on, smiling his grin as well.  It's good to be back.

It's also interesting to see the changes that have occurred in my little nephew since I was last here over Easter...and over this long process in general.  Changes in appearance, energy level, and overall spirit.  His hair is coming back in (darker now), the swelling from the steroids continues to decrease and he definitely looks more like his old self, but his lips are now white from the super-infection and peeling.  His energy is up from where it was a month ago and that's so encouraging to see.  Hopefully it will continue on the upward swing.  His spirit was alive, mischievous and delightful for almost the entire day.  The vomiting/dry heaving period seems to have passed; but the D continues on and on and on.

Highlights of the day included the Doodle Doug turned Doodle Dud toy that I brought along and the ensuing laughter that followed this realization, launching stomp rocket missiles at Daddy and unsuspecting deer, Frisbee golf at Mt. Airy Park, spying on a woodchuck, snuggling on the couch, and having a dance party.  It was a good day.  Jacob was worn out by the end though…and Brian and I are ready for some good sleep as well.  We’re all looking forward to Jodi and Justy’s arrival tomorrow.

Stepping back into the apartment and life here in Cincinnati really does bring a very real perspective to what is most important in life.  I continue to thank Jacob for the lessons he teaches:  to enjoy even the smallest delights of the day and the accomplishments of each and every moment and to persevere under the most trying and uncomfortable circumstances.  I am humbled by his bravery and unwavering spirit.

Thank you for continuing on this journey with my nephew and his family.