Catch Up

Yes, I have returned from Alaska. It was a wonderful but very short trip. I debated extending my airline ticket for two more days, especially since it would be my last trip to the far north for who knows how long. But the expensive change fee didn’t seem worthwhile. Besides, Ken and Robin are going to Boise in June to buy a house, and I’m thinking of zipping up there to see what they’ve bought. Robin has stated they WILL buy a house on this first and only house hunting trip. She is not prepared to un-settle into a rental again.

I have to say this is not the prettiest time of year in Alaska. The snow has mostly melted except on the peaks of the mountains, and the grass and trees have not turned fully green yet. But I was there to see family, not scenery, and my grandchildren are gloriously beautiful, no matter what time of year it is! Just check out my photo gallery if you don’t believe me.

We could not take flash pictures at the recital, so I only got a few shots, and they all turned out blurry. I posted one, but hopefully Robin will post some more of Megan in her ballet costume. It was very sweet, and Megan has really improved year over year in her poise and gracefulness.

Lauren had surgery yesterday morning to put new tubes in her ears. She did very well under anesthesia, and Carrie said she seemed to feel perfectly normal the remainder of the day. While she was under, they did an ABR which is a special hearing test that tests brainwave response to sound. It is an extremely accurate test for children. Unfortunately, Lauren’s hearing in high frequency range has deteriorated some in the past year. Lauren’s transplant doctor has told Carrie that chemotherapy can cause progressive hearing loss for three years following the treatment, so some of this may be related to that rather than her syndrome. It’s kind of a catch 22; it would good if her Sanfilippo is not progressing, but bad if the chemo might cause more loss. It’s a waiting game.

I have not reported an update on Carrie’s eyes in quite a while. Her laser surgery on her second eye was successful, although very painful. Her vision is still very poor, but she has been fitted for glasses. She is able to do all of her normal activites, including driving. The outlook is still unknown; we’re hoping for improvement in her vision, and full healing in both retinas. As with Lauren’s prognosis, it’s also a waiting game.

Tonight I went to Derek’s graduation. I’m sure Daryl will write about it, but let me be the first blogger to say Congratulations, Derek! I’m a very proud auntie. Ya done good!!

I didn’t see the Suns/Mavericks game last night (I was watching the American Idol finale and Lost) but I heard all about that last second shot to win the game. Go SUNS!!!