Abigail Birthday Celebration Checklist

Dec. 30 is an important date. Radiation number 4, check. Chemo day number 2, check. Mark and Carrie have flown today and yesterday to see Mom, check. But they also came back for another reason, today is Abigail's birthday. As I said, Mom was a trooper - took down radiation and chemo like a champion, in the early morning for a change of pace this week. She also earned the right to move out of the ICU and into a regular hospital bed room. Typically meant for 2 people, but she lucked out into a room with no roommate for now.

As Luke said, life is good. We all talk or see each other on a daily, if not hourly basis. Abigail excitedly reported that Mom had her best morning of the week, alert and lively - good words for all of us to hear first thing in the morning. Fam hung out all day, the boys and Carrie did some shopping for sis (with some gift recommendations that Mom of course knew Abigail would love - Kate Spade and Coach to name a couple, check and check), and we had some good family bonding time with the cousins and a delicious Martha Stewart-esque chocolate cake from Aunt Amy.

Of course it's been a tough week and month. But we also have to celebrate and keep enjoying each other when we get such great opportunities as today. Thank you to all family and friends for everything you have done and continue to offer day in and day out. We are very blessed to have such amazing people in our lives. Congrats to Mom for completing her first week of radiation. And congrats to Abigail, you're officially closer to 30 than 25 (come on people, we love each other, but the little brother still has to throw a jab or 2 at his big sister, check). Love you, sis, and we love you, Mom. Goodnight.