Day +18

What a difference a week makes! Blaine is able to eat again, and as a result, is gaining energy. He is walking better, staying up all day, and even cooking occasionally. His weight is much lower than it was last winter, so we hope to put some muscle back on his frame. I don't know that he will be able to grow hair for a while yet, since he probably has at least one more round of significant (though not lethal this time) chemo to go. He was able to spend Thanksgiving at his sister's house with many of his family. It has been 10 years since we have even been on the same side of the Continental Divide as his family for the Holidays! It was a great day. Our friend, Clara, a student at BYU and a member of the Ascutney ward, was able to spend the day with us as well. What a treat.

Josh's basketball team smoked Orem High's team this week. Holy cow! These boys know how to play basketball. Alexis' team hasn't had a game yet, and Kyle's hand is recovering from a mild fracture he sustained in tryouts. He didn't play, but his team dominated in last week's game. Did I mention that boys basketball around here is REALLY GOOD? Dani is coming home in less than 2 weeks. Can't wait to have her on THIS side of the Atlantic. Well technically, closer to the Pacific. Weird.

Janet McDonald wrote the following on her blog, Singing Woods. "In America, the first Thanksgiving was a sincere act of joyous celebration. The Pilgrim company had survived the winter and harvested sufficient to feel themselves bountifully blest. "O give thanks unto the LORD, for He is good: for His mercy endureth for ever" Psalm 107."

I echo her sentiment. Did you know that Europe doesn't celebrate Thanksgiving, just North America? The pilgrims landed here, so the celebration was here. I wish the concept would catch on around the world, since we are all God's children, and it would be appropriate to render Him thanks together.

We're well and Blaine is improving. We are grateful for many things, and will thank the Lord above for all that we have been blessed with. Thanks for being our family and friends. May all be well with you and yours.