9 Hours

Time with my family is the best time, I don't care how I get it.  A month ago my family piled into a Hyundai sedan and travelled for 10 hours.  Upon arrival it was 40 degrees warmer, we were 600 miles from home, and everyone was pleased with the result.  I enjoyed the drive home as much as I enjoyed the drive out.  I may have enjoyed the drive more than the cruise.  The drive felt more intimate.  Today we spent 9 consecutive hours as a family in the hospital room.  It was the best day I've had at LDS hospital.

We were all where we wanted to be.  Sure, there were little fights.  At certain points there was too much negative energy in the room.  But everyone wanted to be here.  We gave the boys endless opportunities to leave.  They didn't want to.  It was great.  I didn't feel this way last time.  I was different.  It was hard to have them here.  This time, it's all I want.

Seven months of being a full-time stay-at-home dad has changed me.  In so many ways I appreciate my family more than I did during the first round with leukemia.  I had a good career, I enjoyed it, and I tired of it.  I can't see my commitment ever tiring with my new role in my family.  Someday I may speak further on this topic.  It is vast, these few paragraphs are a mere hint.

Jessica and Elliot punctuated the day.  Luckily they came early, before the boys were really energized.  We were able to enjoy an hour and a half of conversation.  It was a lot of fun.  Elliot and Jessica have done so much for us in the past week.  I don't really know what to say.  

It is that awkward position where nothing I can presently do will adequately express my gratitude.  During the last round I learned to simply accept the love and kindness of others.  I've reverted a bit though, it's been a long time since I needed this type of support.  Thank you.  Thank you to those who have stepped in over the past week.  Thank you to those who've already offered help for the future.  My family would be buried by this disease if it were not for your love and support.  Thank you.

Medically, all was well today.  No nausea.  2100 calories, my intake.  It was a good day.

I'm really tired, for reasons previously mentioned.  I could write more but my back has politely suggested I quit.  So I shall quit.  Enjoy this picture, Emily snapped it today.

Max enjoying his hospital fort: