First up: Chandler participated in his class's wax museum today. And since I couldn't be there, thoughtful friends sent pictures and video. He chose Philo T. Farnsworth which is completely appropriate for the boy who likes television more than breakfast. We have been talking for months about making a TV for him to be behind while reciting the monologue. Then, life sorta changed. Grandpa Woodward, with some help from Grandma I am sure, stepped up to the plate and made sure he had what he needed for the project. I'd say it was a success for sure. (I know, he's so cute!)
Clara had a better day today. She had the MRI late this morning and so I had to put off her pleas for food for way too long. My biggest complaint is that they do not get the babies in for the MRIs (which they need to be sedated for) first thing in the morning. But, that is a whole 'nother blog. The MRI showed no change since the last one she had about 2 weeks ago. We are just grateful the tumor isn't getting bigger, but it hasn't gotten smaller yet either. It can take up to a month to for radiation and chemo to start shrinking tumors so it was no big surprise. Her eyes, particularly her right was doing the lazy thing more today. The eye doctor is going to come tomorrow to see her so hopefully she can get it figured out. If it's not one thing its another. . . It's OK though she was much happier today. They got her on the right pain med level now so she is much more comfortable. The afternoon nap resumed today, hooray!
Pulling Clara in the wagon around the floor tonight I realized that we are the only ones remaining from when we got here two weeks ago. Everyone else has come and gone. Soon that will be us. Coming for a few days and then leaving. I'm already looking forward to taking Clara home someday. But, trying to have that balance of patience and hope is tricky. Getting through one day at a time really is the only way to go.
While on the phone with Brian tonight I mentioned to him that I am so glad I don't have any regrets that we didn't do more together as a family. I don't want that to sound arrogant, but I really am grateful that we utilized our time together well. Whether it was housework, bike rides, family drives we spent as much time together as our work/church schedules allowed. Especially during this next year as our time together will be limited I am glad that my children have memories of things we did. As quickly as lives can change from one moment to the next, I think that not spending enough time together as a family is a regret no one wants to have.
18 comments:
Hi Natasha, I read your blog faithfully every day. You are a woman of great faith and strength.....what an example to all. I am so glad I am here so Chelsea could spend the day with you and Clara. It was nice to chat with Clara on the phone and to hear her sweet voice. Just know that the Mahuika's are praying for your family daily and if there is anything we can do to be helpful or supportive just let us know...we're here for you !!!!! Our thoughts are with you. Love, Nancy
I love reading your blog Natasha. Thank you for being such a great example to me. We are praying for Clara and your family and we think about you often.
Brock said Chandler's wax museum was the best. He voted for him.
Hope today is a good day for little Clara.
Chandler did awesome yesterday! I so hope you guys will be able to come home soon.hang in there. I'll be praying for it...
One of the reasons why I didn't want to move, was because of 4th grade and that Wax Museum. I think that Chandler did a fabulous job. What a fun project. Little Clara looks great in her wagon. So glad that the tumor isn't getting bigger...I'm so glad that you have no regrets with your family time. I'm sure that has helped over the last few weeks. I love that talk by Elder Perry. I was studying that last week for my lesson on Sunday! You are strong, and so is little Clara! You are doing great!
I love Chandler's prop...I want to see the video!
Chandler is super handsome. Yeah for Grandma and Grandpa. I love all the bonding with extended family, and how they are blessed with the strength to fill in for "Mom". I am praying for Clara's eye, I am so glad doctors are all over it and have been from the beginning. Before you know it you will be home and these hospital visits will only be for a few short days. You are all so strong. There are few trails I can empathize with, but this one truly hits home. I know what you are feeling. You are so strong. I wish I could come and visit you and Clara at the hospital. I am so glad you have great family memories. Family is #1 and I am glad you have always felt this way. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I LOVE Chandler's idea for his wax museum! And I am so happy that your wonderful family helped make it happen. Yes, he is a very cute kid indeed!
I may be the only one, but I have to say the first thing I thought of when I saw this picture of Clara was, the pillow behind her resembles angel wings. She truly is an angel. Praying every day for the day that you get to bring that little sweetheart home and be together...all 7 of you!
Clara looks like a little angel in the wagon, the way the pillow comes up behind her like wings. So sweet.
Tiffani, we posted the angel thing at the same time! How funny.
Chandler is my favorite Sitcom :)
See you on Monday! Mattie can't wait :)
Woodward Family - I've been reading your blog about little Clara (she is ADORABLE)!! We are friends of Brandon and Kym's (whom we LOVE) in Utah and heard about your dear little one. Just wanted to let you know our thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. We will pray for little Clara and for your family!
Nick and Kesha Scott
I thought the same thing about the pillow as angel wings. Clara is the best! I will never forget her asking for pizza over and over again. Sarah and I so loved playing trains with her. We love you!
I really appreciated your post today about spending time as a family. What a great reminder this was to enjoy all my family time. I love Chandler's tv. Isn't it great to have family who will step up and help out. We love you guys.
great news on both #1 and #5. :) you're absolutely right. as i was reading the rest of your post about family time together, i couldn't help remembering president Uchtdorf's remarks "In family relationships love is really spelled T-I-M-E..." so no arrogance implied, my dear. your family is a beautiful, lasting example of truth. that's all there is to it, plain & simple. thanks for being the pillar you are! ::hugs::
natasha every picture you take she looks like she has angel wings! Sooo sweet!
Two "Nana's" tucked four precious grandchildren into bed tonight, each child pleading with their Heavenly Father to make their sister better. Little do they know of the long months that await them, but, we will have "Joy in this Journey" because we know that the Lord has innumerable blessings waiting for this family. He loves you so much and he sees and feels your strength. This unbelievable little girl is truly a special daughter of a loving Heavenly Father.
Natasha, you and Brian are such great examples in your faith and strength during this time. I hope that I can say I have no regrets either in the time that we spend with our kids. That has actually been weighing on my mind a lot lately. I love how you have none. What an awesome thing to be able to say...and no it's not arrogant of you to say it. We are continually praying for Clara and your family. have a GREAT day!
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