pressing on

One day a time, one treatment at a time. Sometimes one moment at a time. It's how this chemo thing goes, and how we've been taking the last couple of weeks of this new phase. Despite the ups and downs and side effects, Ethan really has kept his joyful spirit --- something I'm so thankful for. And he sure looks handsome in his button down. :) Sure do love my boy.

Last week on chemo day we also had labs done and learned that Ethan's in a good range so far, with his ANC being over 3000. So, as Ethan's felt up to it, we've gone out and about here and there. Last night we took Great Grandma Dolores out for dinner, which was a real treat.

And in case you were wondering, Eloise is most definitely still in pink, people. This pink phase is no joke. How I love this girl!

This week we've got a few things on our schedule. We've got chemo and labs on Wednesday (Aug 13th - Day 15 of this phase) and we also are going to have consults with Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy for some side effects that we've started to notice. Once we get through this week's chemo, Ethan will have a week off from chemo, and is scheduled for his next chemo on Wed August 27th.

With all that said, I've got a few prayer requests:

• We've been beyond blessed to have my mom/Grandma Sheila back to help us carry the load here, and couldn't be more thankful for all that she is doing to help. Please pray for strength, stamina, and patience for all of us as we take each day as it comes. 
• Please continue to pray for protection for Ethan from the effects of chemo. 
• Please pray for discernment for our PT and OT appointments - for the team and for us as we figure out if we need to schedule regular physical and or occupational therapy going forward. 
• Please also pray for discernment as parents regarding school. Ethan's preschool is scheduled to begin on August 18th and we are able to send him if his counts are okay and he's feeling good - but of course it's scary to send him too, since I can't be there to make sure he's okay! Please pray for discernment for us to make decisions about when to send Ethan, and for Ethan's transition back to the school environment. It will likely be sporadic for the next month or two and then hopefully transition to a more regular thing once we get to Maintenance in October. 

Thanks for praying, guys.