Living!

Physically, today has been the best day since the diagnosis. I spent the morning at home relaxing and playing with everyone, drove myself to the hospital for blood work, went to work, had a nice long lunch, came home to friends visiting, and then spent a good hour with Eli. We popped the top on a pumpkin, roasted the seeds, carved the face, inserted a candle, and then made dinner. Eli insisted on turning off the lights and pulling the pumpkin close so we could eat by jack-'o-lantern-light. Having the energy to share a new experience with Eli and watch his little eyes bulge with wonder and anticipation is about as good as it gets. He wasn't thrilled with the seeds' taste, but making them took every ounce of his attention, which doesn't happen often. Every cliche about youth is right-on and the more fun I have with our kids, the more I feel young myself, and that energy and optimism and wonder is awesome (and I think it heals). I had goosebumps a few times today and that means it was a good day. I love my wife for creating an environment in our home that promotes and facilitates such experiences in the midst of chemo. Do I really need anything other than love and laughter in my life?