The Changes of Fall

Fall is upon us and that means many changes. As I look out my window I see brown with a touch of green around the edges. This is usually one of my favorite times of the year, with all of the beautiful colors of fall. However, this year we had a major cold spell (10 degrees F. for 8 days) that made our fall colors non-existent. We are now back to fall-like weather...without the colors of fall. It is a little unsettling in reality.

We've also had some unforeseen changes in Emma's health. It seems just when we think that we've got her little immune system figured out we're hit with another whammy. Sometimes it just seems like I'm waiting for what is to come next. I had finally moved beyond that feeling when I received the phone call from our transplant coordinator saying that her numbers are off again, and we would need to start monthly infusions (4-5 hours each time) for 4-6 months. I have to say that it came as a bit of a blow, but I have regained my ability to see things optimistically and this is just another bump in the road. I know things are going to work out just fine. Emma is a fighter, and I wish that I had half of her strength...I really do:). So, here we sit today with Em hooked up to an IV and watching the Little Mermaid. Fingernail painting, beaded necklace making, and smelly stickering to come:). Let the fun times begin:)

Our excitement is mounting with the approaching Make-A-Wish trip that Emma (and all of us) have been looking forward to since May. We will leave on November 21st for Disney World and return on November 28th. We are all very excited! Emma and Owen will be Mickey and Minnie Mouse for Halloween:). Pictures will be coming.

When we first were contacted by Make-A-Wish we were very hesitant about having Emma accept a wish. However, after much thought and consideration we decided that Emma absolutely deserves this. She is going to have the time of her life. And, while she is not terminal right now....and hopefully will have many many many more years of happiness.....her health is more fragile than the average child. She endures countless blood draws, medications, and hospitalizations....more than most of us as adults have undergone. Therefore, we do feel that she deserves some time to just be a kid....in the greatest place on Earth. I am looking forward to seeing the sights through her eyes and watching the magic ignite.

Here are a few pictures of Em and Ow playing in our crunchy brown leaves:) (the pictures are having trouble). We are enjoying the fall weather....even though we do not have the fall colors. We hope that you are also enjoying your fall.