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Friday, October 21, 2011 10:44 PM CDT

It has been 2,555 days since Ashlyn's diagnosis......

I went through and read her joural entries yesterday. On her 1 year anniversary of her diagnosis I had written that October was never the same and that I would fovever look at my favorite month of the year in a new way....

As I read that, it dawned on me that Octobers are normal again. I don't look at gold leaves falling off trees like I did in 2004. If I think about it, I can see the big gold tree outside of Ashlyn's hosptial room. It was beautiful. But, I am drinking hot chocolate at football games again and Ashlyn is jumping up and down in the stands with us. October is normal again. I didn't ever think it would be, but it is. I am hauling families and seniors out to those leaves and taking pictures of them.

Ashlyn is doing great. She is in 2nd grade this year. She has been super busy with gymnastics. She went to camp this summer in Wisconsin. She had so much fun! We all did. She is a level 4 gymnast again this year for MEGA. She loves to read and draw and sing and dance. She is amazing!

Austin is fantastic as well. He had a pretty successful season in baseball, his football team went undefeated and we are heading into hockey season. He still loves football and we are following Kernels wherever they go!

Kayla is loving every minute of middle school. She is also still doing gymnastics- level 7 this year. She loves her own floor music and routines! She is also doing show choir this year. She tried out and actually made the highest group. Only 5 6th graders made that group, so we are pretty proud!

Jimmy and I have been busy. Working and hauling kids wherever they need to be. I wouldn't have it any other way. I am thankful each day for the gifts my children have been give and the gift they are to us.

We hope this update finds everyone happy and healthy!

Love and Lords Blessings
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, April 19, 2011 11:42 PM CDT

Wow, an entire year has passed without me writing.

A lot has happened. Ashlyn had another set of scans a few weeks ago. No change from last year. She has enetered to a new study, they are looking at long term affects of chemo on kids. She had a hearing test and and ECHO again this time as well. We will return next year.

Ashlyn is doing great! She is 7 1/2 years old! :) She has hit a growth spirt this year- 2.5 inches since August and 5 pounds! She is so excited to be tall enough for slides this year! :)

Ashlyn competed this year for MEGA gymnastics. We went to state a few weekends ago. Ashlyn got 1st on vault, 3rd on bars, 2nd on beam, 1st on floor and 1st in the All Around. She was so excited!! She won a total of 29 medals and 2 trophies this year! She is working hard on new skills now!

She has decided to take up tennis. She will take lessons this summer. She is going to Lake Owen camp with Kayla and I in June. Just the three of us (and thier team) will be in Wisconsin for a week. We are all looking forward to it!

The other kids have been busy as well. Kayla (11) was a level 6 gymnast for MEGA this year. She has had a rough year. Appedix came out in Septmeber and she suffered two concussions this season. She is fighting strong and doing great! :) Austin played football in the fall, hockey this winter and we have already started baseball. I wouldn't have it any other way.

Thank you to those who stop in for a visit. I am sorry that I haven't been updating. The caringbridge life seems so long ago... it's amazing. We thank God everyday for Ashlyn's health.

Stop again soon!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, April 2, 2010 10:29 PM CDT

Holy Hannah - it has been FOREVER since I have updated on Ashlyn. Happy Easter to all!

Ashlyn is almost finished with kindergarten! She loves school and her teacher and all her friends!

She was moved to the competitive gymnastics team. She will be a MEGA gymnast level 4. She is excited to learn the routines that her big sister does! (speaking of, Kayla was recently moved to level 6)!

Ashlyn had her yearly scans a little late this year. She was due for them in December. However, our insurance wouldn't let us see her doctor or go to the Children's hospital. Her oncologist felt it was fine to wait until March when our new insurance kicked in.

There wasn't anything really normal about her last check up. Maybe because we are coming up on 5 years this summer out of treatment - who knows for sure.

So when they took her down to do her scans, I had asked how old kids were when they started doing MRI's without sedation. The radiologist said girls are usually okay around 8 or so, but her MRI takes a while - an hour, so that is a long time for her to lay still.

I went to the normal waiting area to work on a power point. About an hour and half into it (odd to me), someone finally came out and said they were adding contrast and it would be another 15 minutes or so. An hour later, (odd to me) they brought her back to me. I have no difinate idea if they have used contrast before, I am sure they did, but the scans have never taken that long before.

Usually after she wakes up from sedation, we go and have lunch and then meet with Dr Sprehe after that. This time they sent us down stairs to his clinic right away. (odd to me)

When he came in he first said, "wierd things happen at 5 years"... (odd to me) and he started her exam. Now he has alwas examined her, but this one was different. He was very thorough - pushing on her and asking if things felt wierd. He asked about fevers, bruising... (odd to me.) He said they didn't have results yet. In the 5 years we have been doing this we have NEVER not gotten results the same day. (very odd to me) He said they would call me when they got them, and to watch for fevers and unexplained bumps and bruises. (odd to me)

So I didn't hear anything by noon the next day, so I called. They still didn't have any results and said as soon as they have them they would call.

The next day was Friday and we were driving to Brookings for Kayla's state gymnastics meet with Dr Sprehe called me himself. He said there was some growth to her remaining tumor. He was confident that if it did contiue to grow, it would be begnin. They tried to compare scans from July 2007 to this can, but MRI's in 2006 the slices were inches apart and are now only mm's apart. They did the usual urine tests (and I can't even remember their names anymore - HVA..?) and see what they say. He said to contiue to watch her and return next winter for another MRI.

I was shocked. After 4 years of no change, to have even a few mm change is not sitting well with me. I have faith that she will forever be fine, but I don't like this remaining tumor. It's not bothering her and surgery to remove it could cause more damage that good - if the tumor is not active.

Just to be safe - add Ashlyn to your list of prayers this Easter season.

Great news for my buddy Jackson - his scans all came back clear! He has been fighting Neuroblastoma since Oct 2008! If his scans are clear in June he will get his line removed!! FIGHTER!

Hope you all have a Happy Easter!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009 6:40 PM CDT

My! We haven't updated in a long time. It's nice to come back here every once in a while. I always like to hear that people still check on Ashlyn even though ALMOST 5 years has passed since her diagnosis!!

The kids had a great summer!!!

Kayla was moved up a level in gymnastics. She will compete level 5 this year. She also headed to Wisconsin to go to an awsome camp - Lake Owen. She had a great time!!! She participated in swimming lessons and wanted to play softball, however, gymnastics was everyday for several hours, so we were unable to do that. Kayla is a 4th grader this year. She loves school. She suffers from acid reflux, so we have had some issues with that this school year. It's getting better! She has great grades and loves her teacher. She is also playing soccer again. She misses some because of gymnastics and she hates that, but we spend a lot on gym... so....

Austin played baseball this year. His team won the city tourney! He was pretty excited! He's so good at sports - and Im not just saying that because I am his mom! LOL! He did swimming lessons and played football when ever he got the chance. He is a 2nd grader this year. He seems like school much better this year. He is playing soccer and is doing awsome. He had some bad luck with his asthma this summer and was started on some new medications. He is better now, but we're a little more aggresive with meds. He is currently suffering from what seems to be a "virus". 103 fevers over the last few days. Hopefully that will end soon.

Ashlyn did swimming lessons this summer and was moved to pre-level 4 gymnastics. She just isn't quite ready to compete this year. She is in kindergarten and despite her hesitation, she loves it! She is also playing soccer and is doing great. In 3 games she has gotten 10 goals! She's so funny to watch!

Jimmy was laid off in June. He is still trying to find something. It saved on daycare this summer! I'm still at the clinic. We are super busy - which is odd for September. We have seen some H1N1 so that is kind of scary!

Well, thank you for checking on Ashlyn. Keep Jackson Gill in your prayers, he is still fighting. God Bless the family of Jean Brooks - she lost her battle last week.

Love and Lords Blessings~
becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Thursday, May 28, 2009 7:38 PM CDT

Hello All... I know I don't get a chance to update often... when you have healthy kids - there isn't much to write about - THANK GOODNESS!

The school year has ended. Ashlyn finished begindergarten and is suprisinly not looking forward to kindergarten. She has a busy summer planned with swimming and gymnastics. She is so excited that the pool opens this weekend. We are also headed to Alexandria to sign autographs for the CMN Bike's and Babes event. She loves doing that kind of stuff. She has had some very cute advertisments for Sanford. My fav has to be the diamonds are forever one! I'll try and post them on here.

Austin started baseball last week. He is doing swimming lessons again and of course, he plays football, basketball and golfs when ever he gets the chance! He has a busy summer ahead of him, but he loves the activities.

Kayla is sad to move out of 3rd grade. She is such a kiss up! LoL! She has a gymnastics camp coming up, and of course swimming and her regular gymnstics classes. She loves it! As does Ash!

Jimmy is in North Dakota working. He'll be gone all summer long. They are staying gone two weeks, home for a few days, gone 2 weeks...ect.... It's kind of annoying. It's not always easy to do stuff by yourself. At least I have my mom, not sure what I would do with out her!

I'm just working.. Of course, it's HEART AND SOLE CANCER WALK season! I've been busy putting in hours and hours of time on that. Tshirt pick up is next week. I'm hoping for smooth sailing! I'm sure it will be fine. I'm 38 pounds down in my "life change"... my blood sugar is good when my eating is good. Depending on the day, it works!

I'm sitting around thinking of how lucky we are! My friend, Jayme, is having a hard time. Jackson had his bone marrow transplant last week and is having some complications. Please add him to your prayer list or visit his site at: www.caringbridge.org/visit/jacksongill

In other cancer news, a young woman, named Kristin was recenly dx with Breast cancer. Her and her husband are searching options and finding things that work best for them! Keep her in your prayers also! There is no such thing as too many!

Here are some of Ashlyn's sanford photos. They have been used for several different advertisments. The Diamonds one wouldn't upload... ;(

(she's on the left)

Sunday, February 22, 2009 9:09 PM CST

Hello all. It's been a while since I have posted an update. When you have a healthy 5 year old, it makes it easy not to have to post anything!

Ashlyn and I went on a tour of the new Sanford Children's HOpstial. It is BEAUTIFUL and AMAZING! Ashlyn walked all over trying to find her tile. Her care bear tile is hanging in the most amazing CT room I have ever seen! It is just amazing! I'm glad that we will never have to stay longer than one afternoon there!

Jackson continues his fight against cancer. He is doing well. We are waiting for him to have scans to see if he is able to join us at the cancer walk this summer. I hope so, but treatment is important.

My trip to Hawaii was awsome! I had a great time! I missed the kids and JImmy, but WOW! It was great! Sometime I will post pictures.

Ashlyn is great! She was moved up a level again in gymnastics. She is getting so good!

Last night we went to Aspen's 1st birthday party. Everyone had a great time. Austin played football for hours, the girls swam... it was great!

Night for now!

becky and family

Saturday, December 13, 2008 4:20 PM CST

Hey everyone!

I know there are a few of you still checking Ashlyn' site after 4 years!

Ashlyn had an MRI on Thursday... NO CHANGE! There is still the remaining piece of tumor... so we return NEXT YEAR!!! They said as long as there is still a piece remaining that we should check it once a year until it's gone... who knows if that will ever change. I think next year she does her ECHO and her hearing test.

Ashlyn is doing GREAT in gymnastics. Starting in January she got moved to pre level 4! They are hoping to have her ready to compete next year when she is 6. She is pretty excited!

There isn't much going on around here. My buddy Jackson is in the hosptial again. Please keep him in your prayers. He was dx with NB stage 4 in October. He can always use prayers. You can visit him : www.caringbridge/visit/jacksongill

I'll post new pics soon!

becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Thursday, November 13, 2008 8:55 PM CST

I find myself coming back to Ashlyn's webpage more than I have in the last 3 years. Maybe because I am becoming familiar with NB again.

I had a flashback today. Ashlyn and I went to Sanford to visit Jackson today. I walked into his room and it felt like a time warp. Jayme was in the chair with Jackson rocking... or bouncing... or swaying.... I was glad to be there visiting them... but wow. I didn't think I would feel like I did when I went in there. Jack didn't have a good day... but that is what they say happens when you go through chemo - some good days... some bad days. Today wasn't a good day for Jack.... So, say a prayer for Jackson: we hope for a quick recovery! Pray for a healthy Holiday! Pray for a cure for NB. Visit Jack at: www.caringbridge/visit/jacksongill

Through Jayme and Jack, I have come into view of another NB fighter. Her name is Jordyn. She has been battling for a while now and like Jack, she is a Stage 4 fighter. Pray for her cure and quick recovery and healhty holiday! Visit Jordyn at www.caringbridge.org/visit/jordynolsen

I hate cancer. I HATE CANCER! I HATE CANCER! What is the deal? I am thankful EVERYDAY that I have Ashlyn and that her cancer was found early... but she still had to fight.. she had chemo... and surgeries... hosptial stays... xrays.. mri's... ct scans.... she put up a great fight! And she won.

Bane Briggs has fought a great battle! He continues to do great! He returns to the mayo clinic for scans often... pray for a continued "clean bill of health" for Bane... www.caringbridge.org/visit/banebriggs

And dear Teresa. One of my best friends was diagnosed Non-hodgkins lymphoma when she was 7 months pregnant... November 1999. Her son was delivered 8 weeks early so they could start chemo on her. She fought a tough battle... and finally won on July 27, 2000. She now watches her 9 year old son from Heaven.....

And of course my Uncle Tim. He avoided the doctor's office for months. He was diagnosed with Luekemia in September 2004... one month before Ashlyn. He fought and won his battle on October 15, 2005....

And my Grandma! She was diagnosed wiht Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in May 1999.... She fought hard and contiunes to be CANCER FREE! YEAH GRANDMA!

My aunt Pam was diagnosed with mouth cancer in 2000. She had surgery and is doing better...until recently. Pam is in the hosptial in Sioux Falls. Pray for her recovery....

And Little Kohlman! Another NB survivor! He was diagnosed at 11 days old! He fought a great battle and is currently CANCER FREE! www.caringbridge.org/sd/kohlman

It's amazing how your life can change with a few words. It's amazing how you have NO clue what is going on and your life is upside down. It's amazing that people do it everyday! I always heard, "how did you do that?" or "I couldnt have done all that".... YES you can and you WOULD if it was a time in your life when you needed to... remember that.

Okay, I am done having a fit now....

PRAY FOR A CURE~!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, October 25, 2008 4:02 PM CDT

I updated a few days ago about how we are SO LUCKY to still have Ashlyn with us! She was diagnosed with cancer 4 years ago already!

I post with a heavy heart about a new diagnosis. My friend, Jayme Dan, has a little boy named Jackson. He was diagnosed with cancer this week. They are pretty sure that it is Neuroblastoma. He is currently at Sanford in Sioux Falls - where Ashlyn did ll of her treatments. Please say a prayer for Jackson and his family!

I am sure Jayme will feel the same way about October as I do. She probably thinks of October a lot happier than I did. She was married in October! I didn't make it to her wedding - and I don't remember now why I didn't make it there. I do know that we "talked" a lot on line and by email. We recently shared some "jennifer and briana wilson" stories... and she recently made the move back home. I was really excited that she came home again. It's always good to have a friend.

Our whole lives (well, since 5th grade - because that is when I moved here) we had lots of things in common. Jayme and her husband, Jason, now join a group of elite parents... the parents of children with cancer. It's not a club to seek out, that's for sure.

Please keep Jackson in your prayers... it's amazing what you can accomplish with prayer!


And keep my aunt Pamin your prayers too. She is in the hospital and not doing the best. My mom won't leave her side - suppose it's a twin thing???

Love and Lords Blessings~
becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Tuesday, October 21, 2008 9:22 PM CDT

WOW~ It's been a LONG time since I have updated!

Today marks 4 years since Ashlyns diagnosis~ I cna't beleive how our life has changed!

Ashlyn is doing great. She started school in August and turned 5 in August. She loves school - although, she hates to write her name! LOL! She was moved to a new gymnastics class again. She gets to practice at KC Hall like Kayla does... so she is excited! She will even perform twice this year! She played soccer this year. She did great! She scored 2 goals! She was pretty proud - especially since she was much smaller than most of the other girls!

The other kids are doing good too. Kayla starts her gym competition season this week. She had a good soccer season too. So did Austin... he scored several goals. Kayla and Austin took LEvel 3 swim lessons this month - just finished those up. One less for next summer!

Jimmy is finally done working out of town. He'll be home for a while now. Which is great - I love the extra help at bedtime!

On a happy note for me - my brother and his wife are taking me to Hawaii in January! They had gotten my mom tickets for Mothers Day/her birthday. I was suprised when they called last week and asked me to go to! Im sad I'm not taking myfamily - but it will still be a blast. I HATE to fly, but it will be worth it!

I hope all is well!

Love and Lords Blessings~
becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Saturday, July 26, 2008 2:01 PM CDT

Happy Saturday All!

I thought I would update again. This summer is running out of time. The kids start school again in 25 days! Ashlyn is SO excited to go to school with the big kids. I can't beleive that she is going to be 5!!!! Amazing!

Kayla had her birthday last Tuesday. She turned 9. Today she went to Sioux Falls with her friend Bailey. They are coming here tonight and we are all going to Wild Water West for her birthday. It will be fun. Bailey has been gone most of the summer. She got home from her grandma's on Monday and since Tuesday, they have been together. Good thing that Bailey is a nice girl! Her and Kayla get a long great!

School starts August 18th. Of course, Corn Palace Week is very soon after that. The kids are excited. They want to go to the Corbin Bleu concert. I haven't gotten their tickets yet.

We had the rodeo parade last weekend. The theme was Western Icons.... the clinic decided that "Woody and the Round up Gang" was a good one for kids. We got 2nd place! Jimmy dressed up as Stinky Pete the Prospector. The float was really cute!

Well, I should get my chores done. HOpe everyone is doing well!

Love and Lords Blessings~

Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, July 9, 2008 6:16 PM CDT

Friday, March 28, 2008 6:26 AM CDT

I know I don't update that often anymore, but Ashlyn had scans, so that is always something to update about!

There was no change from previous MRI's. The remaining tumor is still in the same place and is still the same size. It is NOT active! YEAH!

Ashlyn graduated to having to come back in a year!!! I can't beleive it! Dr. Sprehe said that her protocol said that she has to come back at least once a year until the tumor is gone, but he said it may never go away - which is fine as long as it isn't bothering her or active.

He was going to talk to neurology because of how her face splits. Orginally they were thinking it was Horner's Syndrome, but since part of her chin dones't change, he said something about the trigeminal nerves or somehting. He was going to call us back on that one.

He said that she would probably do an ECHO and a hearing test every other year, unless we have concers before that. The chemotherapy that she recieved causes damage to the heart valves and the ears. They recently put tubes in her ears, thinking that will help her hear better. Hopefully they were just full of fluid all the time and that is why she couldn't hear!

I'll have to put up a few pictures of her in the album. It's been a LONG time since we have done that!

Ashlyn had her tonsils and adnoids out and tubes put in March 3rd. Had a rough start, but did great. They also did some allergy tests. She is allergic to milk, eggs, wheat and a whole bunch of stuff outside!!! Come to find out, Austin too!!!

Well, I better run. Headed to Sioux Falls. kayla has state gymnastics this weeK!!

Love
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, February 17, 2008 1:28 PM CST

Hello again. I am going for one post a month. I don't even know if anyone checks her website anymore. There isn't much to update on anymore.

Ashlyn went to an ENT last week. She has had a sinus infection since about October. We've done antibiotics after antibiotics and even IV meds with not much change. They want to take out her tonsils and adnoids and put in PE tubes and run some allergy tests. Then the doc said that they hope this will help, but kids who have gone through chemotherapy sometimes have trouble because it can damage the mucousal lining throughout the body and can cause problems. So, we'll see.

Kayla got her cast off on the 8th. But her hand isn't healed yet. We don't get to go to Rapid for the next gymnastics meet. Hopefully she'll be healed for the last two meets. Kayla and I headed up to Brookings for the state high school meet last night. It was so much fun! Kayla loved it that the older girls wanted her to come and sit with them. Ashlyn can't decide if she likes gymnastics so much. She likes cheerleading and dancing and singing. Not sure what we'll try next year!!!

Well, I better go. I thought I would send out an update. Hopefully someday soon I'll be an auntie!!! Matt and Diana are due in about 4 days!!!

becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Wednesday, January 30, 2008 6:36 PM CST

It's been almost a month since our update. I guess no news is always good news.

Ashlyn is doing okay. She returns to Sanford in February for her scans. She went over in December and did a photo shoot for CMN and Sanford's new hospital. They pictures turned out great. They are pretty cute. She has also been fighting off a sinus infection for a while now. In October she had myco (walking pneumonia) and a sinus infection. Another sinus infection in November and didn't get over it in December. She was doing okay for a while and then got another one! They did a CT and she had extensive pan sinusitis (infection in all sinus cavities). They also noted that her tonsils and adnoids were vary large. So in February we go over to Sioux Falls and see EENT for taking out her tonsils. Hopefully she'll stop getting the darn things.

Kayla broke in the new year with a broken hand. She did a back handspring wrong and broke it! She will hopefully be out of a cast Feb 8th. That is the hope anyway! She was pretty bummed and she has another meet in February out in Rapid City. We are hoping her hand is nice and strong. She still goes to practice, but doesn't use that hand.

Well, I better go. Jimmy has been working in Iowa, so it's just me at night! Gotta do homework and bath!

Love and Lords Blessings to all...

becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Friday, December 28, 2007 8:01 PM CST

Tuesday, November 13, 2007 9:02 PM CST

Hey everyone.... if anyone even stops by anymore. It's hard to remember to visit a page when they are done with treatment - it does make sense.

Not a whole lot going on around here. Been pretty busy with work.

Kayla has been working her tail off at gymnstics. She has her first meet this weekend. She is nervous and we are all excited!

Ashlyn starts her gymnastics class again. She loves to do the stuff Kayla does! It's so cute.

We, of course, are like the Grizzwolds and over do decorating for Christmas. We put up the lights outside this weekend because it was beautiful out! Hard to beleive that it is November! On Monday night is the Parade of Lights. My favorite parade. I'll take some pictures of the kids and put them up.

Hope everyone is well. Pray for all of those angels who are still battling!

Love and Lords Blessings~
becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Sunday, October 21, 2007 12:03 AM CDT

1095 days since Ashlyn's diagnosis.

Today marks the 3 year anniversary day of Ashlyn's diagnosis. Our lives were forever changed on this day. She has come so far in these 3 years. She is now a happy, healthy and naughty spoiled 4 year old princess! Gotta love it though!

Raise whatever drink you have in front of you and say "CHEERS for Ashlyn". May her battle with cancer forever be over. **now drink** And raise that drink again for everyone who has or is fighting the battle. **drink again**



We are doing pumpkins today. I'll post some pictures later of the fighter!

Love and lords Blessings`

becky and Jimmy and Ashlyn and Kayla and Austin

Monday, October 15, 2007 8:58 PM CDT

I don't get on here to update often anymore. I guess that is a good thing. It means that nothing cancer related is happening in our lives - and we'll take that.

My uncle lost his battle with cancer 2 years ago today. Ashlyn is coming up on her 3 year anniversary of her diagnosis. It is amazing how far we have come the last few years. It is still amazing to me that we did it all and we all survived. I did a lot of talking about my friend Teresa this last weekend. She lost her battle with cancer 7 years ago already. That is horrible to say because that makes it sound like we should be so old now. She was only 21. That is horrible. There are so many things that she didn't experience. I know she would have been a great mom. And she has a almost 8 year old little guy running around and he has no idea how amazing his mom was. She didn't go to college, but I know she would have gone back someday - she needed to find her "thing". I miss her everyday.

Then I look at Ashlyn and of course little Bane! They are so little and they have been through more in thier short lives than most people go through in 80 years. It's all about the Go... the fighting... and the winning....

Say a prayer for all of those wonderful people in your life who have fought the battle - my daughter, my grandma, my uncle, my aunt and my little cousin.....

I have met several people though caringbridge - I have spent nights checking on their webpages. I have read the words of a mother mourning for her child. I have read the words of the twenty-something year old fighting her own battle... say a prayer for all those people in your life...

Becky

Sunday, September 2, 2007 10:31 PM CDT

My goodness - it has been forever since I have put in an update. This summer has literally FLOWN by!

I put a slide show up. It shows pics from Corn Palace Week and then of course Ashlyn's birthday. I can't believe that she is 4 already! I spent most of the week crying. I am so happy that we are lucky enough that she gets to have her birhtday, but then I feel awful because she is my baby and she is growing up.

The kids started school. Austin is trying to get use to going to school all day long. Kindergarten will do that to you. Kayla loves her teacher and Ashlyn was even excited to go back to preschool.

Austin starts soccer again this week and Kayla is off to a good start for gymnastics. They don't have the little girls class anymore, so I don't know what Ashlyn will do to pass her time.

Things are good at work. I still love my job. I was employee of the month in July. That was cool. Austin had his first ear infection in forever this week. He feels a lot better!

Well, I better go. I'll try and update again soon. If you still stop by and visit, sign her guest book!

Keep in mind.....

Saturday, June 30, 2007 1:40 PM CDT

Saturday, June 30, 2007 1:40 PM CDT

Sunday, June 17, 2007 10:51 AM CDT

Saturday, June 9, 2007 5:56 PM CDT

Saturday, May 12, 2007 10:53 PM CDT

Hello again!

This time I update as a new graduate! I graduated from MTI last night. I graduated with High Honors. I was also suprised to get the SPIRIT OF MTI award for our program. I was very shocked and honored!

The kids are counting down school. Ashlyn is done on Monday and the kids finish up next Monday. I started my official job last Wednesday and have been welcomed with full force. My first week on the job co-incided with Nurse's Week. Although I am not a nurse, I was given all the perks just the same. My clinic is awsome!

We are finishing up soccer and gymnastics starts again soon. Kayla will be in her new class, well, some of the same girls, but still with some of the same girls.

Hope you all have a wonderful Mother's Day!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, April 29, 2007 9:04 AM CDT

Hey All!

Not a whole lot to update! Which is GREAT when you have a website set up because your child had cancer!

I was suprised to learn on Thursday, that I was offered a position at my intern site. I am so excited! I was hoping I would get the opportunity to stay! I am PUMPED!

My graduation is only 1 week and 5 days away! I will graduate with High Honors, which I am also very excited about!! We are having a "party" at the park after the graduation, which will be great fun for the kids!

Kayla and Austin started soccer last week. They start playing games next week. I think Austin is going to play t-ball this summer. Kayla will be busy with gymnastics, so I think we'll leave it at that!

Jimmy is almost finished working in Iowa. They have only been home on Friday nights and have been leaving again on Saturday mornings. They are almost done, so he should be home all the time again soon!

Well, I better go! It's suppose to be 86 today, so we want to get to the store before it gets too hot out. Besides, Travis is here to watch the kids!

Please say a prayer for Bane, he is going through so much right now; he can always use extra prayers!!!
www.caringbridge.org/visit/banebriggs

Love and Lords Blessings,
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Princess Ash

Tuesday, April 10, 2007 5:59 PM CDT

Happy Easter Everyone!

We had 70 plus degree higher weather just over 2 weeks ago, today it is snowing like crazy! I had to go about 40 miles an hour on the interstate to Sioux Falls - there and home. It was horrible!

Our day started with having to be to the dentist in Sioux Falls by 7:45. Both girls had great check ups! They mentioned braces for Kayla. I think she's too young yet.

Next we had to be to Sanford (formerly Sioux Valley) at 10:15 for her hearing test. That went great also! She is so big! I can't beleive she does all this alone.

We then headed to lunch for a break and did some shopping.

We had to be back to Sanford Children's by 1 for her ECHO and appontment with her cardiologist. Everything in that department looks great!

We then finsihed with the oncologist. Her new regular doctor was gone, so we seen the really new oncologist. He had asked if we had any concerns. I just stated that we were confused to why it took over a year for her "split face" to show up. He then shared concern and decided that she should have a scan sooner than later. He aksed several questions about her using her arms and legs and how she breathes. Made me kind of nervous- but I have to remember that he doesn't know her history. I was very impressed with him and I am hoping we will see him again when we go back.

So, that was our day! Very busy. It's snowing like crazy and we are headed off to the circus. The kids are very excited!

I suppose I had better go. Gotta get ready for the circus!

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter!

Love and Lords Blessings~
becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Wednesday, March 28, 2007 6:38 PM CDT

Hey all! No news is good news!

I started my internship at Peds Plus on March 12th. I am on my third week and I love it! It's been a lot of fun!

The kids are all doing great. Kayla and Austin start soccer soon. Kayla wants to play softball and Austin is going to play t-ball. Should be an intersting summer!

Ashlyn has been sick this week. My mom is in Las Vegas visiting my brother and sister-in-law. She is having a blast. We all miss her, but she needed a vacation and she is having fun.

My cousin is having her baby on Friday. Everyone is excited! She is expecting a girl and will be naming her Neveah. (Ne-vay-a) Never heard it before, so it's interesting!

Well, I better get going. Just wanted to say a quick hello!

Please say a prayer for Bane. (my cousins son) He is going through a tough time with chemo. But he's a fighter - it's in his blood! Stop by and say hello: www.caringbridge.org/visit/banebriggs

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Princess Ash

Tuesday, March 6, 2007 3:59 PM CST

Well, again, not much to report.

Last week we were bombarded with a horrible snow storm. It started Wednesday. The roads were horrible and you could hardly see in front of you. I picked up all the kids from school at 11:30 since they were not calling it off. The closed all the schools for Thursday and Friday both. All my finals were canceled, so my grades are stands. I am happy with that. We decided if we were going to get out an see grandpa, then we had better get going. We left for Rapid City early afternoon on Thursday before they closed the interstate. It took a LONG time to get to Murdo, but we did. We had heard on the news that Mitchell had gotten about 17 inches of snow, but the newspaper reported today that it's about 22 inches. It's starting to melt now, but the some of the drifts go up to the mirrors of my mini van!

Rapid City had great weather. We went up to Mt. Rushmore on Saturday afternoon. The kids wanted to see it. We took my neice Melissa and we had my cousin Nick. The kids had a blast.

Grandpa is doing better. Mom stayed at the hospital with him all weekend. He liked that. She hated to leave him, but we had to get back home. He may go home today, I haven't heard yet.

I start my internship on Monday. I am so nervous. I went into school and worked on different shots and stuff with a couple of girls and my teacher. I am sure I will be just fine, but very nervous.

Matt is here from Vegas this week. Diana comes in on Friday. He went to lunch with Kayla and Austin today and then he is going to wrestling with Austin tonight. I hope Austin has a good night with it.

I better go. Just wanted to give a Quick update. Hope all is well with all of you that still visit!

becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Saturday, February 24, 2007 8:39 PM CST

Hey All!

Not a whole lot to report! We are in the middle of a Winter Storm Warning, so we are waiting to see how much snow we get. I am sure it won't be even close to what they always say we'll get, but that's okay!

Everyone is healthy - knock on wood! I am down to my last week of classes. I am really looking forward to it. I start my internship at Peds Plus on the 12th. I am so nervous about that. I am sure it will be great because it's an awsome clinic, but I am still real nervous.

My grandpa had heart surgery last week. He isn't feeling the best and is having a hard time "bouncing" back. I am thinking we might head out to the hills next weekend.

Well, I just wanted to say hi. HOpe you are all well!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, February 13, 2007 4:39 PM CST

Happy Birthday to me. I turned 20.... + 8 on Sunday! lol! The kids got me an electric blanket that I wanted, but now they won't give it back! They are actually fighting over it! I had to go and get them their own! lol

Everyone is doing pretty good. The kids all have thier Valentine parties at school tomorrow. They are looking forward to that.

Kayla finally mastered her back handspring. She can do it all by herself without a spotter! She was very excited when she came home yesterday!

Austin finally went back to wrestling. The kids had been sick the last few weeks. Austin had it the worst. He tested postitve for mycoplasma. He missed out on the talet show at school, he was really bummed out by that. They had worked so hard and he missed it.

I only have 2 1/2 weeks left of actual classes. I start at Peds Plus on March 12th. I am pretty nervous. I know all the people who work there are great, but I am still very nervous. I am sure it will be just fine!

I better go, the kids are fighting.... AGAIN! I hate that Jimmy is out of town during th week.

Love and Lords Blessings,
Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, January 31, 2007 6:15 PM CST

Holla everyone!

We have all been really busy around here lately!

Ashlyn had strep thoat about 2 weeks ago. Then starting after that she got this yuck cough. She is on neb treatments and hasn't been to school in over a week now! She is anxious to go back, but we dont know if we'll let her go tomorrow or not.

Austin had his very first wrestling tourney last weekend. He placed 2nd! He pinned the first two guys and got pinned in the finals. The other kids were WAY taller than him, but he had great takedowns! He was pretty excited. He told us that he didn't need practice anymore, he only needed to go to tournaments. Needless to say, he still goes to practices!

Kayla will perform for gymnastics this weekend. She is very excited about it. We haven't seen her round-off back-handspring. It will be fun.

Then of course the SUPER BOWL is this weekend. Since the Broncos didn't go, I am all for the COLTS! I love Peyton Manning! LOL! He has the funniest commercials!

Well, I better go.

Little Bane still needs all the prayers he can get. Please stop by his page and wish him luck. He starts his first round of chemo next week!
www.caringbridge.org/visit/banebriggs

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, January 17, 2007 11:33 AM CST

Hey everyone,

I know we don't get as many visitors anymore, but we know a little guy who needs TONS of visitors.

Little Bane was dx with medulloblastoma yesterday. He is at the Mayo clinic and recovering from brain surgery. He needs LOTS and LOTS and LOTS of prayers. He starts chemo in three weeks and will do it every six weeks for the next year. This cancer is aggressive, so PLEASE say a prayer for Bane and his family. His parents are strong and thier families are strong - we are all there for them!

www.caringbridge.org/visit/banebriggs

Love and Lords Blessings~!
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, January 14, 2007 2:17 PM CST

Hi everyone!

Just wanted to remind everyone again to say an extra prayer for BANE. He is still at the Mayo clinic but doing better. His mom said that he had a rough night, but he's doing good! He still need prayers though....

www.caringbridge.org/visit/banebriggs

Stop by and wish him well!!!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, January 12, 2007 9:26 AM CST

Wednesday, January 10, 2007 6:58 PM CST

Hey everyone....

Please say a prayer for Bain. He is my cousin's son. He is about 13 months old and they found a massive brain tumor today. He is on his way to the Mayo clinic! Please say an extra prayer for him and his family.

I am struck by this! I am having major flash backs to when Ashlyn was dx. She was also 13 months old. I just feel sick.

I am going to work with his grandma to set up a caringbridge page for him.

I'll keep you posted....

Love and Lords Blessings

Monday, January 1, 2007 4:54 PM CST

As you know, our family is HUGE Denver fans! What ever the circumstances may be, his family is in our thoughts and prayers!

We rang in the new year with a small gathering at our house. We had Renee, Mike and the kids over and Karli and the kids over.

We took the kids sleeding today. Ashlyn wiped out with Kayla and got a nasty scrape on her face. Austin also had a fall and cut his lip open.

We wanted to tell everyone Happy New Year! We wish everyone the best for 2007!!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, December 25, 2006 9:31 AM CST

Merry Christmas~

We hope you are all enjoying your holiday! Thank you for stopping by and visiting Ashlyn. The last two years has been hard for us and it was made easier by the kind words of family, friends and strangers.

Thank you!

Love,
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, December 19, 2006 4:57 PM CST

Merry Christmas!

Hello everyone! We are all doing great! Just cleaning for our company to come over Christmas.

My break started this week. I managed to keep my 4.0 again this semester. Only 9 weeks left until I start my internship, and I am pretty excited. I get to go to the best clinic in Mitchell!

The kids have to go to school through Thursday and then they are done too.

We may actually have our first snow. It is suppose to start over night with freezing rain and maybe some snow. I HATE christmas without any snow! I love to have snow, until after the new year, then it can go away.

Ashlyn has scans on January 8th. Jimmy is working in Iowa and is only home on the weekends, I hate that, but what can you do?

I suppose I should go. Gotta start dinner soon.

Hope everyone is well.

Happy Holidays~

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, December 6, 2006 8:06 PM CST

Hey everyone!

We haven't updated in a while - which I guess when you set up a page like this, it's good when you don't update! I added a slide show. We have some friends in Colorado who recently jumped into the 21st centery and got a computer! Had to show off the kids!

School ends soon! Yeah! I am done next Friday and the kids go until the 21st. I am looking forward to a week home without them!

I better go. I have to get the kids to bed and start studying for a test.Hope you are all doing well! Stop by the guestbook and sign a HELLO!!!

Thursday, November 30, 2006 2:13 PM CST

Hey all! There isn't much going on around here. Just getting ready for the Christmas season. My, how time flies by!

Ashlyn contiues to do great! She is in preschool and just loves it. She gets kind of freaked out if new people are around, but if she has her teacher with her, then she is okay. She will go in again in January and have her scans done, and see what is going on with why she has horner's now, or at least some symptoms of it.

Kayla has been complaining of headaches lately. She is sometimes waking up in the morning and in the night with them, so I took her in today. Dr. Heather wants to do a CT on her next week just to make sure there isn't somehting scary going on. I am sure it's nothing, we've already had "crap" and I don't beleive we have the luck that would do that again! Probably just sinuses or something stupid. She doesn't have a yucky nose or anything else pointing to that, but who knows!

I am down to 2 weeks left of school! YEAH! I am ready for a break. I will go back in January and go for 9 weeks before starting my internship! I am pretty excited. I get to go to Peds Plus (where the kids go!) They are awsome there, so I am really looking forward to it!

I should go. Gotta do some studying!

Happy Holidays,
becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and Ashlyn

Friday, November 24, 2006 7:02 PM CST

Hope you all had a great Turkey day! Everyone has been sick around here. There are only two left to get sick - Kayla and Ashlyn. The rest of us had it, yeah for us.

Other than that, I only have three weeks left of the semester! YEAH!!! The kids have about 4 I think. Can't wait to NOT study!

Love and Lords Blessings,

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, November 17, 2006 10:15 PM CST

Hello everyone!

We haven't updated in a while, so I thought I would write a quick update. There isn't a whole lot going on. Next week is Thanksgiving. Monday night starts the week with the parade of lights. The kids are pretty excited! We had our Thanksgiving lunch with the kids yesterday. Austin's class is having a "feast" on Monday. Grandma is going with him, he is pretty excited.

Kayla had her first practice with level 4 last week. She was pretty intimidated to be with the older girls. I think it will be good for her and make it easier to learn stuff than having a bunch of smaller kids running around. I am pretty sure they will move up her friend Josie too, so maybe that will make it easier!

I only have a little over one month of classes left before the end of the semester. I am so excited to get it over with. I am feeling kind of burned out on school these last few weeks. I enjoy the A's I get, but I am tired of working so hard for them! lol!

Hope all is well!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, November 4, 2006 8:59 PM CST

Hey everyone! We had a slumber party last night! There were eight kids over last night! And they all got up early this morning - yeah! I attached a slide show of the kids dancing to the Cha Cha slide! They had a good time - I hope!

There isn't much else going on. We survived the 40 degree Halloween and are moving quick to Thanksgiving. I am okay with that I guess.... just means the semester is closer to getting over!

I was told on Friday that they are putting Kayla in MEGA level 4 starting next week. She doesn't know any of the routines, so she can't compete yet, but that is fine. She is just excited that she will be going more often and working out with the bigger girls. She will also stay in her Profile class too for now. I am thinking we should be getting our pictures back this next week!

I better go. I am so tired. All the kids were up around 7 this morning! We went through 2 boxes of cerel and 4 boxes of macaroni! I did the dishes at least 4 times and most of the time was washing cups! LOL! It was fun!

Love and lords blessings,
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Get Your Own! | View Slideshow

Friday, October 27, 2006 6:36 PM CDT

My favorite time of year! YEAH!

Tonight the kids had TRUNK OR TREAT. At the middle school, cars back up and fill thier trunks with candy and let the kids trick or treat in a safe environment. They had fun. I put in a slide show of the pictures from today. I also put on in on the pumpkin a few girls and I decorated for our Industrial Relations class. We didn't win, but it was really cute and disappeared fast!

Hope everyone is well!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Get Your Own! | View Slideshow

Friday, October 20, 2006 8:55 PM CDT

SATURDAY OCTOBER 21, 2006

It has been 730 days since Ashlyn was diagnosed with cancer.

I went back and read my post from last year. It was pretty long, maybe this one won't be so long.

In last years post, I had mentioned that I hoped this October would be a little better. I haven't decided if it is or not. Ashlyn is off treatment and doing great. Her kidnry reflux is gone. Jimmy is back to work and finished with his last surgery. I am in my last few months of school. I have some things going on, but there is no need to bring those up unless there is a reason to worry - which there isn't.

As I have said before, October is my FAVORITE time of year. I love the colors and the smells. But there is something different about these crisp mornings. The leaves falling and the color changes make me feel sad. It takes me to the scariest time in my life.

On October 21, 2004 our lives changed forever. When we took her to Sioux Valley that day, we didn't have a CLUE what to exspect. I honestly think we just thought she had a pneumonia and that was it. We were very niave to what was really going on. We were completely shocked whent they said she had a mass on her lung.

I don't feel like crying. And maybe I should want to. We have been lucky. Ashlyn has been through hell and back and she is stong and doing awsome! I hate when people make me feel guilty for being so happy that she is healthy! I shouldn't feel guilty.

There are many people who are not as lucky as we have been - and our hearts extent to those families. We hope there is a cure and someone figures it out soon!

Bless those who are fighting cancer, bless those who have won their battles with cancer, bless those who earned angel wings and bless those who will someday be faced with this......

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, October 2, 2006 7:48 PM CDT

It has been a beautiful few days! It was almost hot today! The kids had soccer. They both did great!

We head to Sioux Falls tomorrow for dentist and a check up with Dr. Stout (oncologist). Sonic opened today so we get to have lunch there! We always have to eat there when we go to Colorado! No wonder I am fat! LOL!

I better go. Here are some pictures we took today!

Saturday, September 23, 2006 11:15 PM CDT

Hi everyone. It's been a while since an update. I guess when you create a webpage because your child has cancer, it's good to not have a lot of updates!

Ashlyn finally got to start school last week. She was so excited.... until she got on the bus, then she lost it. But, she survived and she had a GREAT day! She can't wait to go back on Monday. She goes Mon-Thurs.

Kayla was moved up last Spring to the competition prep team in gymnastics and we found out last week that they get to do performances throughout the year! They ordered their team leo's this week. Kayla is really excited about it!

Austin and Kayla started soccer games last week. Austin had a blast. He was so bummed out when the games were cancelled because of the rain on Thursday night, then he has a bye on monday. Kayla has cheerleading anyway.

That is all that is going on around here. Matt and Diana are trying to sell their house. I think they got a bid on it. They are checking out houses in Vegas. I can't beleive they'll be that far away.....

I better go. Hope everyone is well!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, September 11, 2006 9:29 PM CDT

WE REMEMBER.... 9.11.01


Hi everyone, just wanted to add this!

Ashlyn is doing great. We thought she would get to start school but she didn't get to, she was pretty bummed out about it. She had her kidney reflux test last week, it looks like she out-grew her refulx! YEAH! We never get that news!

I'm off to bed.....

Say a prayer for those who lost thier lives on 9.11.01

Love and Lords Blessings,
becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Thursday, September 7, 2006 3:14 PM CDT

Hey everyone! Ashlyn went in for her 3 year check up and she looks great! She is in the 50or weight and the 25or height. (no suprise there) They are a little concerned with the Horner's Syndrome that they think she is developing, but we go see her oncologist next month.

They decided to do her kidney refulx check early since I can't get her to take her meds. She out grew the reflux - everything is working normal! Yeah for her! So exciting!

Ashlyn has her first day of gymnatics today. She is so excited! She has had her leotard on most of the day! She is so cute!

The other kids love school. They both start soccer today. I'll post new pics soon.

Thanks for signing her guestbook, we don't get that often anymore!!

Hugs,
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, August 29, 2006 10:12 PM CDT

Happy Birthday Ashlyn! She is 3 today! I can't beleive how time has gone by! Wow.....

She is hitting the "terrible three's" with full force! At least we have the potty thing down... most of it anyway, she still won't go #2 in the potty. We're working on it.

I added some pics from this last weekend. It was Corn Palace Week. We rode a lot of rides and I took Austin and Kayla to see Raven Symone. The show was pretty good. It was a sell out! We stood in line for 2 hours to get close to the stage - but they got pushed out of the way - by PARENTS! What the heck? I thought the show was for the kids. Guess not?

Austin and Kayla both LOVE school. Austin loves being at the big school. It's going great!

I need to get her to bed, so I should go. Try and sign the guestbook if you have time..... thanks....

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Get Your Own! | View Slideshow

Wednesday, August 23, 2006 9:13 PM CDT

Hi everyone. I haven't written in a while, so I thought I would write what's going on.

The kids started school this week. I was pretty worried about Austin. He gets such anxiety about things, but he really likes his new school. He hasn't really made any friends yet. I asked him why and he told me that he wants to keep his old friends. So cute. I told him that it was okay to have old friends and new friends. But he seems to really like it. It is going much better than it did last year.

Kayla really likes her teacher. She has always really liked going to school - so I know that she will do great! Ashlyn is a little lost with the kids gone during the day. She is always so happy to see them!

I had my interview at Peds Plus for my internship. I am so excited that I got my spot! YEAH! I love that clinic. They have always been so awsome there.I am very excited!! Too bad it doesnt' start until March!

Jimmy heads back to the doc Sept. 12th. Hopefully he'll be released back to work. I think we are all looking forward to that!

It's Corn Palace Week. So the carnival is only 3 blocks away thru Sunday. My dad got the kids passes again, so they'll get to go down. We went tonight and Ashlyn and Kayla both already lost their passes. They did give us new ones. I suprised the kids and got tickets to see Raven. They are so excited! Kayla more than Austin. Kayla is a Cheeta Girls fan and she loves her show. Austin is just excited because she is on tv and he'll get to see her! He is so funny!

I better get to bed. I am so tired!

Love and Lords Blessings

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, August 14, 2006 3:55 PM CDT

Many hellos to everyone.

Today was start back day for school. Had to do the "junk" part of it all.... books, ect. Tomorrow classes actually start.

Today was Bob's funeral. (Diana's Dad) It was a very nice service. He was a pilot and they did the planes flying over - very moving. At least he is no longer battling cancer. He finally beat it. Diana is holding well. It must be very difficult, but keep her in your thoughts and prayers.

The kids had their "back to school" hair cuts today. Austin was very cranky about it. They both start school next Monday. This summer has really just flown by! I can't believe it!

Love and Lords Blessings~

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn


There have been angels in my life.

While they haven’t arrived with a blast of trumpets
Or rustle of wings,
I have known them just the same.

They perform their acts in human guise,
Sometimes borrowing the faces of family and friends,
Sometimes posing as well meaning strangers.

You have known them too
When just the right word was needed,
When a tiny act of kindness made a great difference…

Or perhaps you heard a voice
Whispering in the night of sorrow
The words not quite clear
But the meaning unmistakable..

There is Hope.
There is Hope.

Thursday, August 10, 2006 3:29 PM CDT

Please say a prayer for Diana and her family. Her dad passed away early this morning - finally winning his battle against cancer. Please keep her family in your thoughts and prayers.

Everyone is doing well. Matt started his job with Daktronics and is currently in Vegas. He is trying to get home now. School starts for me next week. I am ready to go back and finish up! I'll update again soon!

Love and Lords Blessings,
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, August 1, 2006 10:01 PM CDT

Hi everyone. There isn't much to update on. We FINALLY had cooler temps. All weekend it was 106 - 108 and today it about 80 or so. Very nice change!

As you can see, I put some cancer walk pictures into a slide show. The very first one of Ashlyn's face is interesting. I called Dr. Heather's office yesterday and got them a copy of the picture. They aren't really sure what is going on. We were told to watch for symptoms of Horner's Syndrome. It's kind of late to develope it, but what else in the world would it be? So, we'll just keep an eye on her.

Back to school soon. I start on the 15th. The kids both start on the 21st. Time is flying by! I can't believe that it is August already. The kids are always so excited to get their school supplies. We did that last weekend. Austin's teacher is coming to meet with him next week. They also have an open house where we can go to the classrooms and stuff. The kids just love that stuff.

I am looking into daycare for Ashlyn. Jimmy will go back o work after Sept. 12th and we won't have a babysitter anymore. I can't find a daycare that will only take her 3 days a week. Drives me crazy! Wish me luck.

Heard back from Brianna's parents. They were testing her for lymphoma. Great news - she is fine!

Also, Diana (my sister in law) took her boards on Saturday. She heard back today that she passed and is officially an RN! YEAH for Diana!!!!

I suppose I should go. The kids aren't wanting to go to bed and it's after 10 already. I can't wait for the 8 PM bedtimes again!!!

Lots of Love,
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, July 29, 2006 11:14 PM CDT

We managed to survive the cancer walk. It was about 106, but we lived. Most of us were sick today, but we all lived! It was miserable outside. The cancer walk is awsome and there was hardly anyone there for the reading of the names. By 9:30 they were gone. We couldn't light the luminaries because of the burn ban in our county. The wind had come up and we haven't had rain in I don't know how long, so we couldn't light them. That took away from it also. We got out there about 8 am and weren't done setting up until about 2:30. Last year we were done by noon. But there were a LOT more luminaries. Renee and I sold shirts and stuff all night, so I didn't get many pictures. I put them in a slide show. I tried to remove the other slide show and I can't get it to leave without a bunch of other stuff going away too. I'll get it some time!

I better get to bed. Kayla is having Melissa and Amanda over again. Jimmy's cousin and his aunt are here from Colorado and the girls are inseperable! Better than arguing!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, July 27, 2006 11:16 PM CDT

One day to go until the cancer walk! I can't believe that it is finally here! It has been a TON of work, but so worth it. It sure made the month of July fly by!!!

We have family here from Colorado. They got here this afternoon. They will be joining us at the walk! I don't know how much walking I will be doing, but that is okay!

Just wanted to say HI.

Please keep a prayer for Diana's dad. He is at home now, but still needs all the thoughts and prayers that he can get. Keep him and his family close to your hearts.....

Becky and Family

Tuesday, July 25, 2006 10:58 PM CDT

Wow.... I can't even describe how FAST this last weekend went.

JImmy and I left Mitchell around 5:30 AM on Thursday last week. We had a blast actually having time to ourselves! We spent some time apart and I had a great time with Josh's wife, Jennifer!

The wedding was great. Everyone had a good time. We got to spend time with everyone that night. We haven't seen Sean or Carla Kelly in so long! It was great to visit with them and catch up. We also seen Jacob and Jolene - haven't seen them in forever either. It was just all around great time.

We went to a BBQ at Mark and Sara's on Sunday. Jimmy and Mark did all the cooking! It was kind of a day to actually relax. Monday we went to Water World. It wasn't the best trip there though. The place was packed. We stood in line for one and a half hours to go on two water slides. Total we did probably 4 or 5 rides and we were there for about 5 hours! It was crazy busy. Then of course thunder and lightning rolled in and cut us out early anyway.

It was a long drive home and we are glad to be here. The kids were so excited to see us! We have such a busy week ahead of us. Friday is the cancer walk! I am hoping to post pics this weekend. I am not sure how many I can get taken while I am selling shirts, but I am going to try.

We also have family coming from Colorado on Thursday, so they will be here all weekend. It will be fun! There isn't much to do. At least we have the new swimming pool!

I should go to bed. I am so tired!

Please keep Diana's dad in your thoughts and prayers.... her family needs them now.....

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, July 17, 2006 11:11 PM CDT

HI everyone! Not much going on around here.

I do have another prayer request. A cheerleader by the name of Brianna went into the doc today and they are screening her for Lymphoma. Please please say a prayer for her!!! Keep her and her family in your thoughts and prayers!

We are leaving for Colorado on Thursday. Jimmy and I haven't been anywhere without our kids in 7 years! We are so looking forward to this! It will be so much fun!

I have tons to do. Please remember Brianna in your nightly prayers. Diana's dad is home and seems well, but he also needs extra prayers...

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, July 14, 2006 10:51 PM CDT

HI everyone. Not much going on around here except the HEAT!
It got over 100 today and suppose to be worse for Saturday and Sunday. I am so glad that Matt got married last weekend! The Rodeo parade is tomorrow. I think we might skip it. Kayla is suppose to ride on the Xtreme Cheerleading float and Kayla on the cancer survivors float, but I just think the 105 temp is WAY TOO MUCH! It's beautiful out now! Of course!

On Sunday we are going to Wild Water West. We're going with my cousin and her kids. It's hot so it'll be a good day. Love the waterslides and the lazy river. No where near as fun as Water World in Denver, but the kids have fun.

They took my grandpa over to the Heart Hospital in Sioux Falls tonight. Looks as though he has an infection in his aorta. Not sure what happens next, so keep him in your thoughts..... I'll be sure to let you know what is going on.

I should get to bed. Austin had a nasty wipe out on his bike tonight. His helmet didn't make much difference when he went face first and smacked his chin on the sidewalk. He is scrapped up everywhere, but doing okay. He's finally asleep again.

I am really looking forward to our vacation next weekend. The heart and sole has kept me SO busy this last week! Holy cow! I spent most of yesterday in the car - how fun. But, little less than a week and we'll be KID FREE for a few days! YEAH for grandparents!! LOL!

I'll update again soon!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, July 13, 2006 10:45 PM CDT

Hey everyone. I don't have a lot of time. The kids are being naughty - Kayla and Ashlyn won't go to bed!

Anyway, my grandpa was admitted to the hospital tonight. They think he had a stroke, but are waiting for test results! Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers....

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, July 9, 2006 2:44 PM CDT

Happy Anniversary to Jimmy and I! YEAH! We are going to spend most of the day recovering from Matt's wedding. I added a slide show with some pics from yesterday. They are all ones that my mom or myself took. I'll post better ones when we get them!

The wedding was great. Thanks to all the prayers for Diana's dad, he had a great day! He spent then entire day with her. He even walked her down! They got their father/daughter dance and everyone cried. It was great. THank you for the prayers. He still needs them, so think of him when you can!

Well, we are down to a few days until tshirt pick up for the cancer walk! I can't beleive how time went by! Next is our "solo" trip to Colorado. My mom has graciously offered to watch ALL THREE KIDS while we go! We are so excited! We didn't get a honey moon, so this will count as ours!

I better go. Ashlyn is ready for a drink. They had so much fun yesterday!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, July 7, 2006 11:32 PM CDT

Hey everyone! I should be in bed right now, but who can sleep! Matt gets married tomorrow! We had the rehearsal tonight and it went well. The kids did great! Kayla was kind of fidgetty, but overall, she did good! Austin was great! He stood next to his dad and just watched.

Hair starts at 8:30 tomorrow. Pictures start at 11:00! Wow~ I'll post pics as soon as I can! It will be so much fun! Ashlyn didn't go to the rehearsal or dinner. She would have been all over the place. She won't sit still for the wedding either, so she is going to stay with Travis for a while. Renee will go and get them as soon as the wedding is over. The reception starts at 5:30. I am not sure the plan in between!

I better go!

I'll put in pics and an update soon!
Becky

Tuesday, July 4, 2006 11:04 PM CDT

Happy 4th of July everyone! We had a good day. We spent most of the day at the park. We got there around noon and it was raining. But the skies cleared and we had fun. We had a baseball game and then the adults played horse shoes. We didn't go out to the lake like we usually do, so it wasn't as much fun to see the fireworks from arcoss town. We know better for next year!

My brother's wedding is Saturday. I picked up our dresses from being fitted yesterday. They look great. I am asking everyone to PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE say a prayer for Diana's dad. He has been fighting cancer for a long time and he is going in for surgery tomorrow. He is very sick and needs all the prayers he can get. Please pray that he gets well soon and has a good recovery!

Love and Lords Blessings for all....

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, July 1, 2006 11:24 PM CDT

Hey everyone. Today marks ONE YEAR since Ashlyn's surgery to remove her tumor. I know I say it all the time, but I can't believe how fast this year has gone! Wow!

There isn't much going on. We are all taking a slow weekend to prepare for the week ahead! My brother's wedding is next Saturday! Yeah! It will be so much fun! We go to Sioux Falls twice next week and it's the 4th. We don't have anything special planned for that!

There isn't much else going on around here. It's been really hot the last two days. It had been a pretty decent summer, but lately it's been hot.

I finished my summer class. I am happy that I got my A I wanted in the class. Hard work pays off!

I better go. I just wanted to give a little update. Everyone is great!!!

Becky, Jimmmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, June 25, 2006 0:09 AM CDT

Hello everyone. It's after midnight and I STILL have kids up! Turkeys! I don't know what they are thinking!

We didn't do much today. The kids played outside all afternoon with their dad. I relaxed and read a book.

July is going to be a BUSY month. We are planning for two weddings, a birthday, a parade, start of the cheer season, three doc appointments, trip to Colorado (includes one wedding)and of course the Heart and Sole Cancer Walk!

Speaking of the walk, Renee and I took over the teams/t-shirts this year. For the first time, we hit 100 campsites!!! I am so excited. There is not a single empty campsite on the map!!! YEAH! We have been really busy the last couple of days.

I am so glad that next week is my last week of school! Matt's wedding is just around the corner! 2 weeks and counting! I am kind of excited! I love to get all dressed up! I finally got to the 30 pounds lost, but I still have a long way to go! The kids are pretty excited for the wedding too!

Mark's wedding in Colorado is July 22nd. (Kayla's 7th birthday) I think that mom and all three of the kids are going! We are leaving Thursday afternoon and staying over night in North Platte, Neb. The wedding is on Saturday. On Sunday hopefully we can do some shopping and then on Monday we are going to Water World. We took the kids there last year and we had a blast. There is so much of the park we haven't seen! It will be fun! We get home on Wednesday and then the cancer walk is on Friday! WOW.... then July will be over.....

I should get to bed. It's late and I am tried!

Love and Lords Blessings,
Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, June 20, 2006 11:41 PM CDT

HI everyone! Wow, we have been so busy lately!

We have been doing lots of calling for the cancer walk. We have luminaries for sale - FYI! They are $5. Renee and I are doing the campsite layout on Thursday along with finalizing the tshirt order. Everything should be ready by Monday morning! I just hope it all goes like it is suppose to!

I am down to 5 days of school left. I have one more class this week and then Mon-Thurs next week. I am ready for it to be over. I am really stressing about a test we are having tomorrow. I am sure I will be okay, but...... My teacher called me an over achiever today... had to laugh because it seems so true!

I better go. The last load should be done so it's bed time. Kayla has gymnastics in the morning. THen more heart and sole stuff and then my test... yeah.

My friends (Shelli) mom is sick, please say a prayer for her that she is feeling better soon!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, June 15, 2006 10:43 PM CDT

Austin is 5 today!! We had his party tonight at the park. The grown ups and the kids had a great game of baseball goin on! They had a good time!

Ashlyn is in bed watching Shark Boy and Lava Girl. Austin got it for his birthday and she LOVES it! She was more excited when he got than he was.

I'll put pictures in the album tomorrow. Gotta big mess to clean up.....

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, June 14, 2006 8:57 AM CDT

We are on our way to Sioux Falls, so I will update later. Nothing bad, just a dentist appointment!

I put a really cute picture of Ashlyn in the photo album. She was playing dress up with her sister!

Love,
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, June 4, 2006 1:03 PM CDT

What a LONG weekend! We had our rummage sale Friday and Saturday. We even made money while we were setting up!

Diana's bachelorette party was on Friday night too! I had fun. I was worried all day about not knowing anyone, but they were a bunch of nice girls! I had fun!

A family friend stopped yesterday. We haven't talked to them in a while. Kayla is friends with their daughter, Kutessa in school. Anyway, there was a bad accident last week. Her grandparents hit head on with a semi. THe grandpa didn't make it, but grandma is in pretty bad shape in the hospital. Please say an extra prayer for Elaine. She also has a caringbridge site that is being set up. Please send GET WELL hugs!www.caringbridge.org/visit/elaineolson

I better go. I think we are headed to the new pool. If you look in the journal history, you can see pictures of our new Aquatic Center. It's pretty cool. The kids love it. It puts our pool to shame!

Austin's birthday is the 15th. He will be 5! I can't beleive where time has gone!!! He hasn't decided on the "theme" yet. We'll probably just have a party at the park again! Still can't get over that he is 5!!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, June 1, 2006 0:02 AM CDT

If you look in the journal history, you can see pictures from our new swimming pool. I tried to post them on the main page, but it really messed everything up. I need to resize them.... I'll do it tomorrow..


Until then..... Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, May 31, 2006 11:57 PM CDT

That didn't work....

Wednesday, May 31, 2006 11:45 PM CDT

I am really hoping that this works. I am trying to post pictures in my journal update so they don't look wierd. When I resize them and put them in the photo album, they look funny. Keep your fingers crossed.

Our hometown finally built a new swimming pool. Our 4.1 million dollar swimming pool opened on Saturday. Here are some pictures from our latest visit:









*** I don’t know any of these kids…

*** From Left to Right starting with the kid hiding in the back: Vinnie (nephew), Austin, Kayla, Melissa (niece) and Ashlyn


**Kayla crossing!


**Ashlyn on the baby slide



Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, May 31, 2006 11:45 PM CDT

I am really hoping that this works. I am trying to post pictures in my journal update so they don't look wierd. When I resize them and put them in the photo album, they look funny. Keep your fingers crossed.

Our hometown finally built a new swimming pool. Our 4.1 million dollar swimming pool opened on Saturday. Here are some pictures from our latest visit:









*** I don’t know any of these kids…

*** From Left to Right starting with the kid hiding in the back: Vinnie (nephew), Austin, Kayla, Melissa (niece) and Ashlyn


**Kayla crossing!


**Ashlyn on the baby slide



Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, May 29, 2006 12:08 AM CDT

Hello everyone. I thought I had better do a recent update. There isn't much to report, which is great when you have a website set up to relay info about your child with cancer!

Our new outdoor aquatic center opened on Saturday! All I can say is WOW! It is so neat! There are 2 huge waterslides, a divingboard, a smaller slide, a baby slide. It starts out a 0"! There are mushrooms and water sprayers everywhere! They even have a sand area that has water pumping through it. It is very cool. My dad decided to buy the kids a pass for the summer. We are now trying to decide if we want to put up our swimming pool. We have a 20 footer that is about 3-4 feet tall. Jimmy is out cleaning it up now, but we'll have to see!

My brother is getting married in July and I don't want those irritating strap lines when I put on my strapless dress! The boys went and got fitted for their tuxes. My mom found a beautiful dress for her! It looks great on her!

I better get going. I have class on Tuesday and Wednesday and need to get my stuff ready for the rummage sale!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, May 24, 2006 9:48 AM CDT

Austin got his yellow belt! He was so excited and so proud! The tornado warnings were going off yesterday, but nothing hit in town - which is good!

I started my class. I have to go Monday, Tuesday and Wednesdays from 4-7! Yuck, but we'll be done by the end of June instead of the end of July.

Kayla had her last day at school yesterday. So they are all home now. At least Austin won't be bored any more.

I better run. I have to do a TON of problems for homework!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, May 19, 2006 10:42 PM CDT

I thought I had better write a little more in my update!

Kayla is down to 2 days of school left. Her team won their soccer game again last night. They are undefeated! She has a total of 18 goals now! The rest of the games were cancelled because of a short storm that rolled through! She is excited for summer break!

Austin will test for his yellow belt in Tae Kwan Do on Tuesday. I dont have any doubts that he will get it! He works so hard. He has a new found love for baseball and football cards. His birthday is in June, so we are trying to get that figured out. We will probably just go to the park again this year. Our swimming pool is never warm enough to swim with 20 kids in June.

Ashlyn is doing great. Her hair is getting so long! She has beautiful little ringlets. I guess she gets those from her dad's side of the family. My hair is straight and so is Kayla's. When her hair all fell out and started to grow back in we decided to just grow her bangs out now, so they are always in her face. I think it will still look cute for the weddings this summer.

The Heart and Sole is coming along. We got our bids done and the packets are out. The next big day is June 12th. That is when registrations are due and we do our big tshirt order. It will be worth it in the end. Too bad it is always so stinking hot in July!

I start my summer class on Monday. I would like it much better if it were during the day, but its from 4:30- 7:20 on Monday's and Wednesdays. That stinks. Oh well, I am pretty bored.

I am having a rummage sale the first weekend in June. I had my first one two years ago. I am not kidding when I say that I had 22 totes of kids clothes. I hadn't gotten rid of anything of the kids! I made like $700 on just the clothes! I didn't get rid of everything either, so I have TONS more stuff to get rid of! I hate going through it all. I do keep some special things and some of Kayla's real nice stuff I keep for Ashlyn, but it just collects dust and takes up space. It will take me a week to go through it all.

I think that weekend will also be Diana's (my future sister in law) bachelorette party and bridal shower. I'll never be able to keep up with those young chics! But it will be fun!

I better go. I have to be at John Paul II at 8:30 for cheerleading camp. I am helping out the coaches.

Much Love~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

PS ~ Kyle is home and doing well. We are happy to report that is in the care of a family member and doing great!

Friday, May 19, 2006 6:12 PM CDT

Not much going on around here. It's hot! Kayla only has 2 days of school left. On Tuesday Austin will test for his yellow belt in Tae Kwan Do.

MOre later..............

Wednesday, May 17, 2006 7:56 AM CDT

Well, let's see.... there is not much going on around here. Jimmy, Ashlyn and I are headed to Sioux Falls. Jimmy has a doc appointment. He is hoping to get his cast off.

We are asking for some xtra prayers for Kyle. His mom is friends with my cousin. He is 1 1/2 and he fell about 10 feet of a slide on Monday afternoon. He was flown over to Sioux Falls and has a skull fracture. But they are concered with some hearing loss and maybe face paralysis. They don't know for sure. (don't get me started on why he was on the slide anyway) He is doing better, but still.... they did say that he is very lucky he wasn't a little older. When he fell he was limp, but if he would have been older, he would have stiffened up and tried to catch himself. They said if he was older he may not have lived. Scary!

I mailed out the packets for the heart and sole on Friday night. I have gotten a response from someone already. That time is coming up! This last year has flown by! Kayla has to go to school until Tuesday next week. They have to make up snow days. Austin's last day was on Monday. He is already bored. It might be different if Kayla and the neighbor kids were around.

Austin tests for his new belt next week at Tae Kwan Do. He will get his yellow belt. He is pretty pumped, though I am not sure he is more excited than Jimmy. Kayla had another soccer game tomorrow. They had a "bye" last night. So far this season they have won all three games and Kayla has scored 15 goals!

I better go. Ashlyn is hollering from the other room.

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, May 14, 2006 10:34 PM CDT

Happy Mother's Day to all you Mom's out there~ We hope you had a great day!!!

We didn't do a whole lot today. The "kids" made breakfast for me and then we went to a birthday party all day. Ashlyn spent the day swimming. She loved the water slide! She took a nap and now she is wide awake! So, it looks as though I won't be going to bed anytime soon!

Kayla's soccer games are coming along well. She has had 15 goals in 3 games! She doesn't have a game until Thursday this week. It will be nice to have a day off!

I don't know what to do with all the time I am going to have. Yes, I will have tons to do, but still! I was lost not having any homework this weekend. Final grades haven't come out yet, so I don't know how I did. I am pretty sure I made the deans list, but I know I didn't get my 4.0 this semester. The classes keep getting harder! oh, well, so worth it!

I better go. HOpe you all had a great day!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, May 9, 2006 7:50 AM CDT

I must say that all that studying must have paid off because I got a 97% on my lab test yesterday! Yeah! One test left and that class is done!

I just wanted to ask everyone to say extra prayers for Diana's family. They didn't get very good news this week and they need ALL the prayers they can get right now. So PLEASE say a prayer for her dad.

I suppose I better get going. I am so glad that it's the last week of school. Kayla has to go until the 23rd to make up snow days and Austin goes until the 15th. I am also planning on having a rummage sale, so I have that do to this weekend. Then my summer class starts the 22nd. I am not real excited about it, but it will be better than taking it next fall and being completely swamped!

Love and Lords Blessings
Becky, JImmy, Kyala, Austin and Ahslyn

Monday, May 8, 2006 8:04 AM CDT

Happy Monday!

It's the last MOnday of school! I have a big test today, but I don't feel like reading about HgB and Hct and CBC's right now! I did that all day yesterday!

Diana graduated from nursing school this weekend. On Friday night we went to her pinning ceremony. It was cool. Her brother pinned her. She offically graduated on Saturday. Her dad was admitted back into the hospital. So please give her family some extra prayers this week.

Austin had quite the weekend. ON Friday night he was goofing around in the kitchen on the bar stools. He fell off and the chair somehow came crashing on him. He has a huge black bruise and a huge pump on his forehead. The corners of his eyes are black and blue too. Then he had his shots for kindergarten on Friday too. On Saturday night when it was time to take a bath, he kept complaining that his leg hurt. He didn't want to walk up the stairs, so I carried him. When I got him into the bathtub, his knee was swollen. He got out of the bath and an while later his thigh was swollen and it had red blotches. I called the doc and to make sure we that it wasn't an infection of some sort. They said it was a reaction to one of his shots. It is still swollen, but it feels better. Poor kid. Later I am going to put two pics of him in the photo album. He looks pretty beat up!

I better go. I need to study more for my lab test. Wish me luck!!!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, May 3, 2006 1:54 PM CDT

Happy Wednesday Everyone!

I think my best mood comes from the fact that next week is the last week of school for me! Yeah! I hate finals, but it will all be over soon!

Kayla had her first soccer game last night. She scored 4 of the 6 goals that her team had. They won the game, but it was a good one. The girls were dropping like flies! They were either tired or getting hurt. Kayla went out after getting caught in the eye by a shoe. I put some pics in the album.

Other than that, there isn't much going on. I have a ton of notes to type up for a test tomorrow. I love open note/book tests. They are so easy!

I better get going! Hope you all had a great weekend!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, April 29, 2006 10:23 PM CDT

Hello everyone.

We had a new addition to our family this week. My sister in law Jessica had her baby.

Mariah Jordyn
April 27th, 2006
6# 8oz
19"

She was about a month early, but is doing great and got to go home today. Jessica brought her over to show the girls and Ashlyn wanted to hogg her. She said that no one could hold her baby. She was so mad when Jessica went to leave. It was so cute. Jimmy wanted to hold her and Ashlyn said that he didn't know how, so he couldn't. I put some pictures in the photo album of the girls. Don't mind Ashlyn's REALLY dirty face!

Lets see.... how many kids are there in Jimmy's family.... how about we count.....
1. Travis (12) 2. Brandon (11) 3. Melissa (10)
4. Heather (8) 5. Trevor (7) 6. Kayla (6)
7. Vincent (6) 8. Cody (6) 9. Miah (5)
10. Chandler (5) 11. Austin (4) 12. Hope (4)
13. Katie (3) 14. Ashlyn (2) 15. Treaton (2)
16. Nolan (2) 17. Mariah (newborn)

Good thing we started to draw names at Christmas! lol!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, April 29, 2006 12:38 AM CDT

Well, nothing like freaking someone out for no reason.

I went to the doc this morning. My MRI showed inflammation around my hip joint and some fluid. They aren't sure what happened. It is usually seen with an injury, but I didn't have one. So??? I am suppose to take anti-inflammatory meds and stay off it for a week. If it does it again, they will draw some of the fluid from it. He also said there is some arthritis in the joint. I don't know why they couldn't tell me that over the phone. So stupid to make me worry about it all night. Irritates me!

So anyway, I feel better today and that was good news. We were worried, but all is good!

Love and Lords Blessings
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, April 28, 2006 8:31 PM CDT

I know that this website is about Ashlyn, but I am using it to give some updates with me too.

I had my MRI this afternoon. The hospital sent me home and the doc called, but wouldn't give me any information over the phone, so I go in tomorrow morning to meet with them. Not sure what is going on. I do know that my leg feels 100% better! It pops when I bend it and it gets caught and it really hurts, but for the most part I can walk on it again.

It started to rain earlier and the kids played in the rain. They had so much fun. Austin had been playing basketball since about 8 this morning, so I bet he'll go to bed early. He is having Travis sleep over and Kayla went to Melissa's. She'll be home in the morning.

I am going to go. Not much else going on, so I am going to go.

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, April 27, 2006 11:55 AM CDT

Hey everyone. I thought I would write a quick update. There isn't a whole lot going on. Remember how I was complaining of my hip bugging me. I had to go into my doc yesterday to have it checked out. I couldn't walk on my leg at all and the pain had gotten way worse. They did some x-rays and said that there was an abnormality in the hip joint so I need an MRI. I have that scheduled for tomorrow. In the mean time I am suppose to stay off the leg and walk around on crutches. I honestly don't know how Jimmy does it. My leg feels a lot better today, so I am waiting to hear if they still want to do the MRI. I would imagine, but I thought I would ask.

The kids are doing good. I am so ready for school to be out. They were outside playing this morning before school. They got a basketball hoop yesterday, so they have a new hobby.

I better get going. I am in my computer class and it will be starting soon. Gotta work on my powerpoint. Yeah!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

PS ~ if you have room for an extra prayer today, please say one for my teacher's husband. He was recently diagnosed with Wegener's Disease. I don't know much about it, but he is in the hospital at the Mayo Clinic. Hopefully he will be feeling better soon.
THANKS~

Tuesday, April 25, 2006 10:23 PM CDT

It's official, the MUMPS has made appearence in our school district. They haven't said which school, but it's here. Kayla had her booster shots for school in 2004, but Austin hasn't had his yet. And then there is Ashlyn, we still don't even know if she has to start over with her immunizations yet. I guess I have some phone calls to make!

Jimmy seen Dr. Alvine today. He said that Jimmy is healing nicely, but he went back into a cast. Another 3 weeks, then he can start to ease into walking. Dr. Alvine said that won't be easy.

Today was busy. Austin did awsome at Tae Kwan Do. He isn't too far from earning his yellow belt. Kayla had soccer and then she decided she wanted to go to open gym for cheerleading. I have been walking, so Renee, mom and I went out for a short walk. My hip is bugging me, so it was real short compared to our normal 2-2 1/2 miles. Maybe tomorrow.

It's an easy week at school. No tests this week.... wow! write it on the calander. Of course, we are down to 2 weeks now, so then it will be crunch time. I am so ready for a break!

I better get to bed. I have an early morning. Tomorrow morning is the recognition banquet at school, 7:15... yuck!

Talk to you all soon!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, April 24, 2006 10:17 PM CDT

Hello everyone. It has been a while since I have updated. I am even going to put some pictures in the photo album.

All weekend it was around 75-80 degrees outside. Yesterday it was almost 80! And tonight, we started to get SNOW!!! It won't accumulate to much, but still, the weather change has got to stop!

We are down to about 3 weeks of school left! Yeah! I am ready for a break. On Wednesday morning I have to be to school by 7:15. They are having an invitation only breakfast recongition banquet. I suppose I am there because of my 4.0 and scholorship (is that spelled right? it doesn't look right)?? Should be interesting...

Jimmy goes to see Dr. Alvine again tomorrow. I think he is hoping to get his cast off, but I think that it is too early. It is only going on 2 months. I think he is stuck in that until July.

The kids are busy with activities this time of year. Monday is our only day without anything going on. Tuesday's is Austin's Tae Kwan Do, Kayla's soccer and Kayla's cheerleading. Wednesday is Kayla's gymnastics, Thursday - Kayla soccer and Friday Kayla has gymnstics. Crazy! It keeps us out of trouble!! LOL!

I suppose I should go. I have to put some pics in the photo album quick!

Hope you are all well....

Becky, JImmy,Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

PS - Copper was adopted early last week. He wasn't even there for 1 week!

PSS- I FINALLY learned how to resize the pictures! Yeah for me!!!

Wednesday, April 19, 2006 10:40 PM CDT

Ya know, I should be studying for a test, but i don't really feel like it. I am sick of studying!

Last weekned went good. The kids got to play with their cousin's from belle Fouche all week long. Out in the Hills they are getting a snow storm. My grandparents live in Deadwood and grandma said something like 2.5 FEET of snow! On Monday it was like 70 degrees there! Crazy!

Kayla starts soccer tomorrow. She is excited. She really likes soccer. Today Ashlyn and daddy went to Austin's school and dug around in the dirt for worms! They both had fun! She stayed the rest of the day and had lunch with Austin. She wants to go to school so bad next year. In a few more years. We are still debating on cheerleading. She is so little, but at least once a day she says, "I be cheerleader like Ka?" No kidding...

Last weekend we took Copper to the Humane Society in Sioux Falls. He just chewed up so much stuff and he was so hyper. I cried the whole way there. I thought I would be happy to hear that he had been adopted, but I see on their website tonight that he was adopted and I don't feel any better....

Well, I should study. If I want that B to get up to an A, I need to get on the ball. Oh yeah, I got a letter today from the President of my school inviting me to a Recognition Banquet next week to honor me for my achievements this year. Too bad I am having such a hard time with my 4.0 this semester..... I have to remember that we only go to each class 8 more times!!!!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, kayla, Austin and Ahslyn

Sunday, April 16, 2006 10:41 AM CDT

HOPPY EASTER EVERYONE!!! HOpe you are all having a great day! I haven't got a chance to post any pics yet, but I will soon!

Hope you are all great!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

PS ~ Still "healthy hugs" for Hunter and "thinking of you hugs" for Diana and her family!!!

Friday, April 7, 2006 9:15 PM CDT

SATURDAY APRIL 8, 2006 UPDATE

Hey everyone. This afternoon we took Austin to the Corn Palace for the Tractor Pedal Pull. To the surpise of us all, the city kid (meaning Austin) got 2 full pulls and placed 1st. He will now go to state in September during Corn Palace Week. I put some pics in the album!

So much for the 6 AM ride to Sioux Falls. We got there to find we couldn't do the BAER (spelling?) because she has an ear infection. They did do the ECHO and she met with the oncologsit who said she is doing good. Growing nicely! The chemo didn't affect her in that way.

Jimmy headed to Coloado. Not that I was happy about it, but it will be a long weekend. We'll see if he shows up when he is suppose to. In the 9 years we've been together and driving to Colorado, we have NEVER come home the day we are suppose to!

We have a couple of "thinking of you". Say an extra prayer for Diana and her family. Her dad didn't get the best news this week. He is a cancer patient. I hate cancer.

And some more "get well hugs" for Hunter. He is still in Sioux Falls. Last I have heard is that he still can't eat or drink anything and hold it down. He is still not doing the best, so he needs more healthy thoughts!!!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, April 5, 2006 10:06 PM CDT

Hi! What a BEAUTIFUL day today! The kids were outside all afternoon and they are all asleep a few hours ago! Except Ashlyn. Mom, Renee and I went for a walk and Ashlyn got to go with.

I thought that Ashlyn had her scans tomorrow. But I guess she has graduated to every 6 months now. But she has to have a BAER (not sure if that is how you spell it) and an ECHO. I think, and I am not sure, that the BAER is kind of like a hearing test. Something about checking to see if her brain responds to sounds or something? Not sure. So, we are off to Sioux Falls again. Oh happy day! I hate missing school.

Speaking of school, I just got my summer schedule and I am NOT happy about it! I have to go T-Th from 4-7 from May 23rd to July 17th! That stinks! Good thing we didn't have any major plans this summer! Irritates me, if only she would have listened when I told her the first day of school, I wouldn't even be in this mess!

Anyway, long day tomorrow, I better get to bed!

Lots of GET WELL HUGS FOR HUNTER!!!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, April 3, 2006 10:13 PM CDT

Evening everyone. I just thought I would write real quick while I take a break from studying.

First, my friend Angie called tonight with a prayer request. Her good friend, Ronda, called and her son has fallen off a horse. (Ronda has been a visitor to Ashlyn's site.)All I know now is that he has a skull fracture and he is bleeding from the brain. They flew him over to Sioux Falls, but Angie hasn't heard anymore. Please say a prayer for Hunter.

Of course it was beautiful today. We even went on a walk tonight. They played out all day and they were wiped out. Ashlyn was asleep by 8:30 and the other two by 9. I love nice weather.

Better hit the books.

GET WELL HUGS FOR HUNTER......

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, March 30, 2006 8:16 AM CST

UPDATE 4:32 PM

I am so excited that I wanted to share! I received the following letter in the mail today:

Dear Rebecca,
It gives me great pleasure to inform you htat you are a recipient of the Martin & Maud Osterhaus scholarship. This award is $1000 and will be applied to your account for the fall 2006 term.

Your application and grades are very impressive. You are very deserving of this scholarship, thank you for taking time to apply.

YEAH for me! I am excited. I have never been an academic person, so this is exciting. Just wanted to share!


Good morning everyone! I put some new pictures from the circus in the photo album. I am sorry for the size of them, one of these days I will get it all figured out!

We took the kids to the circus yesterday. Ashlyn had never been to one before. She had so much fun! They ate tons of junk food and they each got a light up something or another. They had a blast!

I forgot to write a Happy Birthday to my dear friend Teresa. She passed away 6 years ago this coming July 27th. She would have been 27 yesterday. She died of cancer - go figure. She put up one hell of a fight though! Lots of Heavenly Hugs for her!

I better go. Jimmy is getting ready to leave and I have to get Ashlyn ready!

Love and Lords Blessings
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, March 27, 2006 8:43 PM CST

Hi everyone! Ashlyn had her dental work done today. She feels pretty good! I am so glad that is over! She woke up around 2:45 AM and wanted to drink.... of course, she couldn't. So, I settled on letting her watch Monsters Inc in my bed. Of course, she stayed awake the entire time and talked on and off. I had to get up at 4:30 to get ready to go. We left Mitchell around 5 this morning. She was awake for most of the ride to Sioux Falls! I am so hoping that she will go to bed early - I am SO TIRED!!!! She doesn't look too tired, darn it!

Matt (my brother) and Diana got their engagement pics back - they are so awsome! They turned out so good! They are so good - good luck to them and picking out the ones they want!

Diana also brought my bridesmaid dress. It is such a beautiful dress, but I look like a cow in it! But it is so pretty! I am thinking we'll do our family pics that day. We will all either be in black or white and all gussied up, so it will be a nice pic. The photographer they have has done some awsome photos!

Kayla has taken gymnastics at the rec for the past few years (off and on) and they are re-doing their program. They are turing it into a gymnastics academy where they actually have a very young competition team. Anyway, last week they had their evaluation to be placed in the proper classes. Kayla was actually moved up to the Profile MEGA class. Which is the competition prep class. They said that she could be doing competitive gymnastics in less than 2 years. She was so excited that she got moved up! Yeah Kayla!

Better get to bed!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, March 25, 2006 10:46 PM CST

Ashlyn was in the style show at Walmart today. This is the dress that she is going to wear for Matt and Diana's wedding. Doesn't she look so cute!!!

Becky

Friday, March 24, 2006 8:48 AM CST

Ashlyn is finally back to normal! And so is everyone else! We don't have a lot going on this week. Ashlyn finally has her dental surgery on Monday. A long time over due. She couldn't even go to the dentist until after January 13th and then it took them 2 months to work her in. She was suppose to go in March 13th, but was still very sick, so we go on Monday.

Tomorrow Ashlyn is going to be a model for the style show at Walmart. My sister in law signed her up to wear the dress we found for my brothers wedding. She is going to walk with Travis. Then Kayla has a birthday party and Austin and Ashlyn are going to Nolan's birthday party (Nolan is Jimmy's nephew). Busy Saturday.

Other than that, there isn't anything going on. Jimmy is doing much better. He is pretty bored sitting at home. At least he can hang out with Steve when he is bored!

Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, March 19, 2006 8:18 PM CST

Hello everyone! We are having better times these days! Ashlyn is feeling better, but still pretty cranky. We had a not too busy weekend. We didn't do much. Today Austin had a pool party for school. I put some pics of him in the photo album. It seems like I never take enough pictures of him!

Not much going on this week. Kayla has her test out for gymnatics. This weekend she mastered her bridge-kick over and tomorrow we'll start working on her back walk over. She really wants to learn that. Austin had a good week of tae kwan do. He has class again on Tuesday.

I guess I should go. Grey's Anatomy is on soon! Check out Austin's photos! He so handsome!!!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, March 13, 2006 10:21 PM CST

And so the drama contiues. I took Ashlyn in again today. Her fever this morning was 103 again. We got to Dr. Heather's about 3 and we left the hospital around 10!!! They ran blood and urine tests and everything was clear. They are still going to culture it. Then they did a CXR (chest xray) and still nothing. But she was so dehydrated that her left hand and both her legs and feet were turning purple. They sent us over for IV fluids. It took over an hour and 20 minutes to get the IV in. They poked her at least 5 times before they had the anastesiologist ( I know that isn't how you spell that) come in and he got it in one shot. At one point she was running a fever of almost 101, but her hands and feet were freezing. It just makes me nervous! I keep thinking all these stupid cancer thoughts... unexplained fevers.... for over a week now! Well, part of it was explained, but her blood and urine show nothing now. We go back in tomorrow at 2:15... maybe we can figure something out.

I'll keep you posted!
Becky

Sunday, March 12, 2006 10:05 PM CST

You should see the snow! I can't beleive the weather. Here I thought we were on to spring!

Kayla had her cheerleading banquet today. There are some large photos of her in the photo album. They had so much fun and the banquet went great. We registered for next year and Kayla was actually moved up a squad (to Spirit) for next season. She will be in the Youth Club Cheer (6th grade and under) She is really excited! They have some good stunting camps coming up this summer. She is excited to go to those things!

We took Ashlyn to the banquet today and then she went to the movie for the first time today. We went and seen "Shaggy Dog". It was really cute. Ashlyn did good and then all of a sudden she started running a fever again. She is resting now. I wish she would go to sleep.

Back to school tomorrow. I have been on spring break this last week. JImmy is feeling much better. He is moving around and stuff. He even went to the banquet today.

I better go. Hopefully Ashlyn will go to bed soon! Hope you are all doing great!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, March 9, 2006 9:06 PM CST

This is forever never ending! Austin went to bed last night at 8 AM. He literally slept through noon today. His fever has been around 104, pretty sure he has influenza B on top of his double ear infection. So Ashlyn finally starts to drink today and she goes potty and is yelling because her bottom hurts. We finally got a sample into the hospital and she has WBC (white blood cells) and bacteria in her urine. So now she has a UTI with her influenza. Last but not least add rotavirus on top of all that! No kidding! She is just a miserable little girl! Kayla, so far and knock on wood, has stayed healthy! Austin is finally feeling better. He got out of bed for the first time around 7 or so. He is going to watch a movie with me in a few.

Kayla has her cheerleading banquet on Sunday. I am so tired and run down from this week that I hope that it all goes smoothly! I'll be the very last one sick.

They cancelled Ashlyn's dental surgery for Monday. Now we will have to reschedule. Yeah!

I better go, just wanted to update on Peanut! I just can't beleive it! Actually, I should beleive it, it is afterall, Ashlyn!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

PS~ jimmy contiues to do well! He isn't moving much, but he is feeling a little better!

Wednesday, March 8, 2006 3:47 PM CST

We are home from the surgery! It went pretty good. They had to extend a muscle in his leg to get it to sit the correct way. Dr. Alvine said there was some cartilage in there, but it wouldn't have lasted very long. He got his morphine pump and is comfortable for now.

Mom and Renee said Austin was sick yesterday. Renee took Austi in for a checkup and he had a really bad ear infection in both ears. Ashlyn got up last night around 9 and was up until 5 this morning running a fever and throwing up. I took her in this afternoon and she has Influenza B. She didn't get a flu shot this year. It was under one year of chemo, so they suggested against it. She threw up all over the doc's office and herself. Poor peanut.

Other than that, there isn't much else going on. Jimmy goes in for a re-check with Alvine on the 28th. I still have the rest of this week off for break. And as long as Ashlyn is better, she will have her dental work done on Monday! Keep your fingers crossed.

Xtreme Cheerleading is having their annual banquet on Sunday. Tickets are $4 to get in if anyone wants to come. We will feed you and entertain you!

I'll update again soon!
becky, Jimmy, kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, March 5, 2006 11:06 PM CST

Hi everyone. Kayla did GREAT at State... along with all the other Xtreme Cheerleaders! Pride (Kayla's squad) placed 4th, Spirit (Melissa's group) placed 3rd and Xplosion placed 4th.

Jimmy was feeling better yesterday morning, so he went with us. He wasn't feeling good by the end of the ride. He slept all the way home and then the rest of the day until early this morning! He hasn't run a fever all day. He doesn't feel the best, but he is doing much better than he was doing! Surgery is still scheduled for Tuesday. He is nervous ~ I think we all are.

We will be staying over in Sioux Falls Tuesday. Hopefully we can come home on Wednesday. We only stayed one night last time.

We have to go over to Sioux Falls tomorrow too. Kayla is mad that she has to go to school instead of coming with us. I promised to bring her something from Target.

I should go to bed. Not much fun, but I have to get up early again tomorrow anyway, even though I am on spring break this week!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, March 3, 2006 8:11 PM CST

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*NEW PHOTOS~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Hello everyone. I added some pictures of Austin to the photo album. He had tae kwan do tonight. He got his uniform and I had to take pictures of him! When he is use to being there more, I can take pictures of him actually in class. Kayla is still really upset that she can't be in it too. I just wanted this to be something for Austin. He doesn't have his own thing yet.

Kayla has state cheerleading tomorrow morning bright and early! We should be home pretty early. Awards are scheduled for around 11:30 or so.

Ashlyn is asking about cheerleading again. Too bad these things cost so much money!

I'll post when we get home tomorrow! Keep your fingers crossed!!!

Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, February 28, 2006 11:37 PM CST

New photo in the album.

We have been trying forever to find something for Austin to do. He was going to do wrestling this year, but he decided he didn't want to. We were looking for Taekwando (is that one word?) but we didn't hear of any place in Mitchell that had it... until yesterday! We were so excited to find a place! We took him tonight to check it out and try it to see if he liked it. He LOVED it! He actually sat still and paid attention to the instructor! It was great to see him so involved! We go back again on Friday for another class and to see if he wants to sign up. Kayla went with us and tried the class too. We can't afford for her to do both cheerleading and this, so we'll have to see. She really loves cheer/gymnastics!

Count down to Jimmy's surgery is one week. He is getting nervous. He isn't looking forward to being home. Jimmy had told his boss that he would work on Saturday. I told him to re-check that because Kayla has state cheer in Huron. One more big event and then we have a small break from cheerleading. She really enjoys it, but she is ready to be done by the end of the season. I think the older two squads have a great chance at placing this year. Kayla's group's routine is WAY TOO SHORT! They hardly do a dance and then one simple repeat cheer. Maybe next year she'll make an even older squad! I guess we'll have to see!

I suppose I should study for my test again! Oh happy day! Good night all!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, February 26, 2006 10:26 PM CST

Hi everyone. I am waiting for the little princess to go to bed. She had an early nap, so I don't know what the hold up is!

We didn't do much this weekend. Friday night we had Jimmy's brothers and sister over to play poker. Let's have a refresher course on how many kids were at our house: Brother #1 - 5 kids (3 girls, 2 boys) Brother #2 - 4 kids (3 boys, 1 girl) Jimmy - 3 kids (you all know them!) and Sister #1 - 2 kids (1 boy, 1 girl)!!! Plus one extra boy. Austin's best friend from school slept over. It was crazy! But, I cleaned house and took home most of the pot, Jimmy got the other half. We finally quit around 1:30 AM because it was so late. And to our suprise, we didn't have a whole lot of cleaning to do.

Jimmy shaved his head today. He said it would be easier to wash since next week he has surgery and it will be a while before he gets a good hair washing in! I think he is nervous. He isn't looking forward to no walking for the next 4 months. I am on spring break next week, so I will be home all week. And then after that my mom will be home most days.

Well, I am going to read her Max and Ruby, maybe she'll doze off....

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, February 22, 2006 1:28 PM CST

Hello everyone. Not a whole lot going on. We are counting down the days until Jimmy's surgery. He isn't looking forward to it, but hopefully this will be it for a while!!

We are trying to "whip" up the cheerleading banquet. We didn't get enough planning time in and now we are crunched. Hopefully we can get that figured out soon!

Ashlyn is good. She got her Barney bedding in the mail yesterday. She loves it! She loves Barney and now her new obsession with Max and Ruby! I found a bunch of Max books for her - she loves them.

I better go. I have to meet one of the coaches at Sun Gold!

Love and Lords Blessings~
becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and ashlyn

Saturday, February 18, 2006 10:33 PM CST

FINALLY NEW PHOTOS!!! SORRY FOR THE SIZE!!!

Hello all. There isn't a whole lot going on. I am actually bored tonight. The last 2 nights my mom and I have been watching Season 1 of Grey's Anatomy. We LOVE that show! We never miss it every week and we had to see the first season. We started @ week 2 this season.... had to catch up on it all!

Ashlyn went with us to the cheerleading performance tonight. She had fun watching the girls, but she was jumping all over the place until they performed. She had never got to go before because of that reason. Oh well, the season is over soon. State is the 4th.

I got caught up on my scrapbooking today. I haven't done that forever. The only thing left is Christmas in Kayla's book. I am out of pages and haven't gotten any in yet.

Kayla is having Jadyn sleep over tonight. And Austin has Travis over. Jimmy blew a fuse or somehting up stairs and the lights went out, so the girls are freaking out. I keep telling them they will be just fine.... but they don't seem to think so.

I guess I should go. I have been signing guestbooks like crazy. I read a sad update tonight and seen that Kaitlyn earned her Angel Wings this morning. She was just little... it breaks my heart. Her family is in my thoughts and prayers....

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, February 14, 2006 10:56 PM CST

Happy Valentines Day! I was so excited that Desiree showed me how to put "tags" when I sign guestbooks - so I did a whole bunch today!!!

The kids each got some little gifts from us today. They had so much fun in school today at all their parties. Kayla's teacher told me again today that if the medical field doesn't work out for me, I should go into teaching. Funny, a few years ago that was my thoughts! lol!

I am suppose to be studying for two tests. Not fair, there should be a rule on having more than one test in one day. Too bad.....

We all have long weekends. Austin is off Thurs-Tues! Kayla is off Fri-Mon and me too! We aren't doing anything special. I would have liked to go out to the hills, but it isn't a good time. Jimmy has his surgery soon, so he can't miss any work. So it looks like another boring weekend home!

I better run!
Talk to you all soon!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, February 11, 2006 11:35 AM CST

Hello everyone. There isn't much going on around here. Ashlyn is doing well again and no one else is sick!

We are trying to decide if we want to go out tonight. It's my birthday today...27... it must be a special occasion for us to go out!!! We haven't decided yet.

Matt and Diana are coming tomorrow. We get to go and look at their house they bought. We have seen the outside and it looks like a nice place.

I better go. I need to get my homework done so I don't have to do it tomorrow!

Hope you are having a great day!


Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, February 9, 2006 10:05 AM CST

Hello everyone. There isn't a whole lot going on these days. Ashlyn spent yesterday and part of today sick. She was running a high fever yesterday and was getting sick. She is still really worn out today and cranky and a low fever, but doing much better. I had to miss school to stay home with her. Normally mom is with them when they are sick, but she can't skip work this week!

I have to take Copper to the vet. He was outside and came in and his eye is swollen shut. I don't know what the deal with him is! He is a dork!

We might go to Wagner to the casino for my birthday on Saturday. We haven't done that in a few years. The best part is the "money machine". You can go in on your birthday to try and catch money floating around. We don't know for sure.

My brother is going to be moving back to Mitchell in the next few months. Him and Diana stopped last night to show us a picture of the house they bought yesterday! My mom is so excited! Matt is her "baby" and she really likes Diana (as we all do)! She will be happy to have everyone close to her.

Jimmy's surgery is a little under a month away. He is getting nervous for it. Hopefully this will be the last one for a few years!

I better go. I have to get ready to take Copper in. I have to stop and get him a new leash, he ate his other one!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, February 5, 2006 10:10 AM CST

Super Bowl Sunday.... it's the end of the football season = my husband is going to be so sad!!

Not a whole lot to update on. Our new computer came this week. Our other one was just too old. It was time for new. So far so good, of course I haven't really had to do anything with it yet!

Kayla had cheerleading in Brandon yesterday. They all did very good. The Spirit squad looked great!! They added a bunch of girls and changed some of their routine. All our squads need to be that size! But every squad did a great job. Kayla's squad got a participation trophey, so she is happy they got one - even if she doesn't really know what it means. She had fun and that is all that matters! State is next month in Huron. I think they will perform one more time at a Kernel game in a few weeks.

My birthday is next weekend. We don't have any major plans. We were thinking maybe we could go to Wagner and play the slots. When it is your birthday, they let you go in the money machine and try to catch as much as you can while it blows around. That is always fun!

Ashlyn stayed home with Austin and Dad yesterday. I know she would love to go and watch the cheerleading, but it is such a long day I don't think she would make it all day. Maybe next year. She keeps asking if she can be a cheerleader. They can start when they are three, but she will be so little! We'll just have to see!

I better go. Gotta finish my laundry! Hope everyone enjoys Super Bowl Sunday!

JImmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, January 30, 2006 4:48 PM CST

Hello everyone. Not a whole lot to update on. Copper came home on Friday and he is doing pretty good. He still gets pretty excited to see people, but he does good with not getting too jumpy. He wants to go for walks all the time. He'll sit at the front door and wait. Jimmy took him on a few short walks this weekend. He did really good walking.

The kids are upstairs playing. Ashlyn is trying to destroy the doll house where Kayla and Dillon are playing. Austin is playing a video game. We don't have much coming up. Kayla has a cheerleading comp this weekend in Brandon. Those are always fun to go and watch. The cheerleading season is just about over. State is in March. This year has gone by fast.

I am trying to get organized for the cancer walk. I am going to be in charge of teams/t-shirts. It's a big responsibility and I am folling Kelly, who has done this for a few years. I just want to stay on top of things so I don't have any major screw ups. I am really excited to be apart of it though!

I better go. It's the time of day to worry about dinner!

Hope you are all doing well!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, January 26, 2006 8:38 PM CST

What do you think of the new pictures on the site??? I am so excited to see them. I do love the old ones, but they were just too old! Thanks to Chris for getting them on for me!

Not much going on. Copper comes home tomorrow. I don't know if I am excited about that or not. I miss him and he did learn a lot, but still.... he is so wild! The kids are excited. Kayla is mad that she can't go with, but he'll be home when she gets out of school!

Tonight we had our first Cancer Walk meeting for the year. I will be heading up the TEAMS this year. It's a huge responsiblity, but it will be fun. Renee didn't have to move to Vermillion, so she will be a big help! As soon as they have the website finished for our Cancer Walk, I'll be sure to post it so everyone can check it out!

I better go. Just wanted to say hello!!!!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, January 24, 2006 12:26 AM CST

Let's not even talk about football! Denver played horrible! That was not the same team that played last week against New England. What a bummer!

Ashlyn continues to do well. She starts with her immunizations this week. She is only current to 12 months, so she has some catching up to do. It'll break my heart listening to her say "No owies today. No owies today, right mommy" She says that the second she sees the doors to Dr. Heather's office or Sioux Valley. I hate that part!

I better go. I am in class and I suppose I should listen. HOpe you are all having a wonderful January! And Happy Birthday to my oldest friend Jessica!!! She is 26 today! I have known her since 1984! Long time!!!

Becky, Kayla, Austin, Jimmy and ASHLYN

Friday, January 20, 2006 10:27 PM CST

Not much to update. Dr. T said that her tumor is "stable" and that there are no changes. They did say that there are some crevesis (can't spell) in the lung from where they removed the tumor and it appeared that she was breathing deep and she could develope pneumoia in that lung. We are suppose to watch for it. She has been coughing, so she is doing great on not letting it all settle. We go back again in March for more scans.

Not much going on this weekend except of course FOOTBALL! BRONCOS~BRONCOS~BRONCOS~BRONCOS!!!! I think Ashlyn is the only true fan out of the kids. On Sunday's when she sees Daddy getting his jersey out, she runs upstairs for hers. It's so cute! This weekend we will all be sporting Denver gear! It's difficult since my dad is a huge Steelers fan! Austin's bedroom is decorated in Denver and Spiderman - great mix!

I better go. I am so tired and Kayla has cheerleading pictures early in the morning! Kayla is still not feeling the best. She goes to the bathroom a lot, but so far, all tests have come back negative!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, January 19, 2006 12:10 AM CST

Hello. I don't have much to update on. Actually, nothing with Ashlyn. Kayla is kind of sick now.

She has been complaining that she didn't feel very well the last few days. Complains of a stomach ache and that kind of thing. Yesterday he teacher walked her out and said that Kayla had some bloody stools at school (she didn't tell her until the very end of the day) We sat in the doc office for a few hours and were finally told to get some samples into the hospital. She goes in again today for a re-check. Her stools aren't as bad as they were, but she is going to the bathroom after she eats and then will be fine and then all of a sudden drop because her stomach hurts so bad. I just dont get it.

We head to Sioux Falls tomorrow to go and do scans. It will be our last meeting with Dr. T. She is leaving for a new hosptial. We have met Dr. Stout, and she seems very nice! Ashlyn is scared of everyone!

I better go. I am in my computer class and the teacher is ready to instruct! I'll update tomorrow after Ashlyn's scans!

Jimmy, becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, January 17, 2006 7:05 PM CST

There are new photos in the album. I put one of Kayla and Austin in there along with Gus.... eating Santa's Christmas cookies.

Not much going on..... scans on Friday!

I made the Presidents list at school for my 4.0!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, January 15, 2006 10:58 PM CST

There really isn't a whole lot to update on! But, I thought I would say hello! My friend Angie had her baby this week. They didn't think he would come home from the hospital for a few more days, but he was released the same day as his mommy!! YEAH! I told Angie that he was the good luck charm for the Denver Broncos! And I am sure his dad agreed! And I was right! They won yesterday!

The kids don't have school tomorrow. So, we'll be doing cleaning day early this week. Ashlyn has scans on Friday. This will be her last meeting with Dr. T. I received a letter saying she would be leaving Sioux Valley at the end of the month. We'll see Dr. Stout now. We have met her and she seems very nice.

We were in Sioux Falls on Friday. I stopped and got fitted for my bridesmaid dress. They are very pretty. Diana is so on top of stuff! I've seen pics of her dress and it is gorgeous! Then again, I am sure she would look great in anything! The kids are really excited and we still have close to 6 months to go! Ashlyn isn't going to be a flower girl. I don't think she would walk down with the other kids. She would be too scared of all the people. That is okay, she is only 2! She can watch with grandma and daddy!

I better go. Just wanted to say hi. In a few days we will post new pics!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn Renee

Thursday, January 12, 2006 12:30 AM CST

FYI~

Jimmy goes in for his 6th surgery on March 7th. He is going to have the rest of his ankle fused together. He knew it was coming, so he was pretty ready for it.

Everyone else is doing fine. We go to Sioux Falls for dentist appointments tomorrow. And we get to see Copper. Austin and Ashlyn are going and it's early, so it will be interesting.


My good friend Angie and her husband Greg had their baby on Tuesday:
Jacob Jesse Reichenberg
January 10, 2005
9:35 AM
6# 12 oz
18"
He was born c-section and swallowed some amniotic fluid and now has pneumonia. He can only be held by mommy and daddy starting today. Give an extra thought to him for us!!!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, January 8, 2006 10:47 PM CST

*~*~*~*~NEW PHOTOS 01.09.06~*~*~*~*

Hi everyone. I thought I would write a quick note while I wait for the rest of my laudry to finshing drying. We went to Sioux Falls yesterday. My brother, LITTLE BROTHER, graduated today. He got a double masters, in what I can't remember. Congrats to him!

We went over last night and stayed at the Ramkota. They have an indoor waterpark and the kids had a blast! I wish I could post pictures, but I can't. I can't find my disk to re-load the program to download them. We had fun - of course, that saved the rest of my homework for tonight and then the rest of the laundry.

Jimmy has a doctor's appointment on Wednesday. We are headed out of town after my last class that day. I am done about 1:50 and his appointment is at 3, so we should just make it. Maybe they will actually have some GOOD news for us - I wouldn't count on it, but maybe!!

Friday Ashlyn goes to the dentist. I have tried to get her in forever. We were suppose to go in September, but she was sick, so we couldn't go. And I couldn't get her in until this week! We get to visit Copper too! Austin and Ashlyn are going - so they are excited!

I better go. I have some more homework to do! Yeah!

Love and Lord's Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, January 6, 2006 8:40 AM CST

So much for having scans today! Ashlyn had a cough that started this week and they decided that they didn't want to put her under. So, we had them moved until Jan. 20th. She is doing much better on her cough, but she has had some wierd diapers, so I am waiting for a call back from the doc. They probably get sick of hearing from me.

Not much going on today. I was going to go to Sioux Falls anyway, but I thought I should just wait for next week. Ashlyn has a dentist appointment and my grandpa is having back surgery. We may stop by and say hello - we'll have to see how he is feeling. The first week of school went good. This semester will be harder, but it is getting much more interesting!

Kayla performs tonight in Forestburg. I think we leave here around 6:30. We are going to just drive. It will be faster getting home that way.

I should go. I have tons of laundry and a house to clean. Hope everyone is well!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, January 3, 2006 8:13 PM CST

Hello hello to everyone. The kids went back to school today so I spent some time catching up online with other caring bridge kids..... and all I can do now is count my blessings! There are so many families that are going through some horrible things and making decisions that I would never want to make when it comes to my child. We are so lucky.... we will forever think of Dr. Heather as a hero to us. She found Ashlyn's cancer and sent us where we needed to go to get rid of it! Of course it isn't all gone, but she isn't requiring treatment, and that is a plus!

Speaking of which, we head back to Sioux Falls on Friday for scans again. I always get nervous around that time- I am sure I always will! Renee is going with me. It's always nice to visit with someone in the cafeteria while I wait. It usually takes about 2 hours or so. After we are done at the hospital we go over to Dr. T's office for the results. I am sure nothing is different - no smaller, no bigger.

I start back at school tomorrow. I am ready, I think. I have spent a lot of time being bored! I think Ashlyn and I were in Walmart for like 2 hours or longer today! Yeah for shopping!

I better go. Austin won't fall asleep.

Love and Lord's Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, December 29, 2005 12:45 AM CST

Hey everyone!

Not much more to update on. Ashlyn has scans next Friday. I think my sister-in-law is going with me. I am not for sure.

Tonight we are going to a birthday party at the Days Inn. The kids love going there, they have water slides and stuff. I have been listening to, "When do we go?" for about 3 hours now.... and we don't leave until 4!

Next week is back to school. Kayla will be just fine, but I am sure that Austin won't be as easy to get back into the groove. The kids start back on Tuesday and I go back on Wednesday. The nice thing is that my advisor arranged our schedules so we don't have any classes on Fridays. That is cool. Now I won't miss as much regular class times if I arrange all appointments on Fridays!

I better run. It's past lunch and the rug rats are starving!! LOL!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, December 27, 2005 5:59 PM CST

Well, I hope everyone had a great Christmas. Ours was very nice. I love Christmas, I am always so sad when it is over. We took down our decorations early this year so now everything looks so BLAH!

Copper came home today. He spent the Holiday's at the pound. He ran away on Thursday and we couldn't get him until today. He is still wild, so I think he is going to go to "boarding school" for dogs. I haven't decided if it is a good idea, but he is SO NAUGHTY!!!! He drives me crazy! He drives ALL of us crazy!

We did some major cleaning upstairs yesterday. The kids rooms got cleaned out and now they can play up there. We threw away about 14 bags of toys/crap! Not including the tons of toys we kept in the store room. But, they have fun upstairs again now.

My brother and soon to be sister in law were here over the weekend. My brother and I still fight like we are 12! Glad to know we haven't grown up at all! He brought his "kids" otherwise known to normal people, this cats. The kids (mine) were real good with them - we had fun!

I just wanted to say hello. Back to school next week. I am glad, I am so bored lately! I did get my report card - 4.0! I am so proud of myself. I study my rear off, but in the end it will be worth it!

Talk to you all again soon!
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

PS~ Out of the mouths of Babies:
We were driving in the car last night and I told Ashlyn that she doesn't share very well and she said, "I know.....Oh well!"

Friday, December 23, 2005 10:55 PM CST

Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas! Merry Christmas! I love the holiday season! We go crazy decorating the house and singing Christmas songs! I love Christmas... and so does Ashlyn!

I had to take her into the doc, afraid she had a sinus infection. She wore her Santa Hat with hair (she got that last year when she was a chemo baldy!) and she carried around her singing mice. She was cute!

I finally went to the doc. After 3 weeks of not feeling well and having a HORRIBLE cough, I found out I had pneumoina. I've been on meds and nebs for almost 2 days now and I feel a little better, but not much! Hopefully I'll feel better soon!

Tomorrow we are having a few different kind of Christmas'. We are having my cousin and her family over for lunch and opening a few gifts and then tomorrow night we'll have supper, go to church and open more gifts. Tonight the kids wrote an email to Santa. He reminded Austin he needs to be good (and parents wonder why children grow up and lie to them!). He was pretty bent out of shape, but I assured him that he would get gifts. The kids always check out Santa's progress on Christmas Eve. If you visit northpole.com you can check the Santa Tracker. The kids love it! When ever he gets close to South Dakota - they run off to bed! I love it!

I better go. It's almost 11 and we are in for a long weekend.

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas! I'll post again soon and hopefully be able to add pics!

Season's Greetings!
Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, December 18, 2005 11:03 PM CST

Hello everyone. Not a whole lot to update on. Austin didn't make it to his party last week. Just about the time I signed in, he was sick in the playroom. He was so sad! He slept for a few hours and was better by bed time. Ashlyn must have caught it also, because she was sick that night into the next day.

We had our first of several Christmas' today. I can't post any pictures, because I can't find my disk to do it. Hopefully I'll find it this week while I have TIME OFF!!! Ashlyn waited patiently to open all her gifts, it was sweet.

I am done with school for the semester. I am glad for a break. The last week was stressful. We had so many tests for missing school after Thanksgiving because of the weather. It will be a welcomed break. I am still waiting for one grade, but I am pretty happy with all my other grades. I am going to post them, because I worked so hard for them!!!
Medical Office Procedures: 90% A
Term: 97% A
Anatomy 92% A
Lab: 94% A
Medical Fundementals: 93% A
and my last grade before my paper in Psych: 92% A

I am just waiting for the last one to come in, hopefully early this week.

On a different note, about me... I have had this persistant cough for about 2 1/2 - 3 weeks. It has been this irritating cough, but it's getting worse. I am getting sick when my "spells" start and my head has a sharp pain on one side from coughing so hard. It is just getting worse. I know, I know, I should see a doc.... but I just hate to spend the money to hear I have a cold. I just wish the headaches and stomach aches would stop. I am fine through the night, until I get up for some reason. I just am sick of it! It's been too long!

Anywho... we all head to Sioux Falls for dentist appointments on Tuesday. I am so excited to take 5 kids! My sister in law is coming with her two kids. We have to make a few stops at the mall and stuff... last minute shopping.

How could I forget the bigger news......??????? My little brother got engaged this week! His girlfriend, Diana is very sweet. We all think she is wonderful! So we are so happy! They will be getting married July 8th. (funny, Jimmy and I were married on July 9th! LOL) We went with her and started looking at wedding stuff. She is very excited too! I am honored, I was asked to be a bridesmaid. And Austin is the ring bearer. They don't know what to do for sure about flower girls. Diana has 6 nieces and Matt has 2! I think they said anywhere from 4 to 6. Ashlyn and her niece Ashley are both 2, so we'll have to see!

I better go. It's late and I am tired and I need another aleave! Talk to you all soon!

Season's Greetings!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, December 14, 2005 4:29 PM CST

Hi everyone. What a busy week! It's finals week! I still have 3 tests and a paper left. I am so excited. I have managed to keep my A's so far, but we'll have to see how the rest of the week goes. I am sure it will be just fine.

There isn't a whole lot going on with the kids. Ashlyn really enjoys the Christmas season. She loves to sing the Christmas songs and even though she won't go any where NEAR Santa, she talks about him all the time.

Austin is have a Christmas party at school tomorrow. I am going to be able to go! He is pretty excited that he gets to have family there! And on Friday, I'll be going to Kayla's class to help make gingerbread houses. She was glad that I could make it to that!

On Sunday we have our first Christmas. We are headed to Woonsocket again for Christmas on the Evers side. Then next week I am out of school and Kayla and Austin are still in, so we will have a few quiet days at home. On Tuesday we are going to Sioux Falls for dentist appointments.

I better go. Thank you for all the happy Christmas thoughts in the guestbook.

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, December 8, 2005 8:13 PM CST

HI everyone. Not a whole lot to update on. It's been busy around here. We were snowed in for a few days and missed a lot of school. For me that really stinks. We have finals next week, but now we have to have the end of the chapter tests and then finals. I am so excited, let me tell you.

Kayla has a performance on Saturday. She is excited. I think we'll take Ashlyn. She has never been to see Kayla perform before.

My grandparents are here from Deadwood. My cousin Kristy graduates from college on Saturday, so they are stopping through to go to pick up my mom and my aunt.

I better go. Just wanted to say hi. We love to see who stops to sign the guestbook. Thank you.......

Season's Greetings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, December 2, 2005 2:04 PM CST

Hi everyone! Sorry I haven't been able to update Ashlyn's site. We have had a huge storm come through and we are without internet and cable. We are lucky we have electricity! There are a lot of people that still don't have it! Mitchell had school on Wed. and today and both days they got out early! I can't beleive it. We haven't really had any snow like this in a few years! We had to take the snow and ice off the trampoline, there was ice that was 5 inches thick - no kidding! Its been crazy. Our tree in the front came down and the one in the back took out the cable/internet line. The kids love all the snow! At least we will have a white christmas!

I will update again soon. Everyone is healthy! LOL!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, November 28, 2005 9:44 AM CST

Well, the first snow of the year is turning into a huge blizzard. They issued a Winter Storm Warning yesterday thru midnight tonight. Our tree in our front yard started falling thru the night. We have HUGE branches all over the front yard. Our big tree in the back knocked down a wire, but we don't know what the wire is for. And we lost electricity last night around 2 AM and it was off until after 7 this morning. Talk about cold. Jimmy and I came down and started a fire by 6 because it was so cold in here. We are in for a long day. My sister in law lost her electricity this morning around 7, so her daughter is here to stay warm. Renee had to go into work. JImmy went to work, I dont know how much work they could be doing in a blizzard!

I took pictures and still haven't posted them yet, but I will. I took some of the yard with all the branches down. I am just glad that a big one didn't come crashing through the front window!

Our house looks great! The kids, especially Ashlyn, love it! We just need christmas music in the background! LOL!

Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, November 27, 2005 9:53 AM CST

Bring on the snow! The weather channel kept saying that we were going to get a snow storm Sunday night, so they issued a Winter Storm Warning for tonight through Monday, but I see on weather bug, they re-issed it for now. I LOVE snow until the day after Christmas!

We decorated the house yesterday. We always go too over board! I love it. We will finish the tree today and the kids LOVE it! Especially Ashlyn. I took pictures yesterday of her with her Santa hat with hair. She looked so cute. I'll put some of those online later after I take more of them decorating the tree.

I better run. I just wanted to update and say HELLO! We had a great day after Thanksgiving shopping spree. We were at walmart by 4:30 AM! We even went to Sioux Falls in the afternoon. I love to shop! Okay, talk to you all soon and check tonight for new pictures!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, November 24, 2005 9:44 AM CST

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

**NEW PICS IN PHOTO ALBUM.... Sorry for the size!**

We are getting ready to go to my aunt and uncle's in Woonsocket. Jimmy is all worried he'll miss the game today. Devner plays Dallas.

Ashlyn is now dancing on the dining room table! She decided in the last few days that sometimes she feels like using the potty! We went to walmart and bought a whole bunch of underwear for her. But, she likes having control because she goes when she wants!

Austin had his school pictures yesterday. I hope he didn't use his "cheezy" smile. He lost his front teeth in July and they haven't grown in yet. Hopefully they are in there!

Tomorrow is the big shopping day! I plan to be at walmart by 5 AM. There are a lot of items I want this year. It's funny how some years you find tons in the ad and others there isn't anything. It would be much easier if I was a morning person!

On Monday I had to have my hair cut. I was growing it out so I could donate it to Locks of Love, but I decided I wanted to take the perm out.... to make a long story short I cut off 9 1/2" and none of it was any good because of the damage from trying to straighten my hair. Good thing my hair grows fast, I can donate next year!

Just wanted to say Happy Thanksgiving! Hope you all have a wonderful day!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, November 20, 2005 10:21 AM CST

Happy Sunday everyone! Today is a beautiful day! Which is good - we decorate our float for the Parade of Lights! The cheerleaders are having a float and the theme is Winter Wonderland! It will be fun! I am going to take Ashlyn down town early to see Santa Claus. I hope she isn't afraid of him. One of her favorite Barney movies has Santa on it and she loves it, so hopefully it'll work out!

Ashlyn will get to go to Thanksgiving this year. Last year she had to say home and away from people because she had a round of chemo the Monday after.

I am ready to start Christmas shopping. I can't beleive that it is that time of year again. I love Christmas time! The colors and the christmas songs. Ashlyn has a favorite - Let it Snow! She always wants to listen to it in the car. We broke out our Christmas CD's. I love it!

I better go. I'll post pics from meeting Santa and the Parade of Lights!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, November 15, 2005 11:32 AM CST

Hey everyone. Happy REALLY cold weather day! There were very very little snow flakes and the kids were ready for snow pants! It looks like there might be a little more snow on the way but not much!

The girls had a good time at their cheer competition in Sioux Falls last weekend. We didn't know if we were going to make it. Kayla was running a fever all Friday and sick, but by Saturday morning she was doing pretty good! They had fun!

The Parade of Lights in on Monday night. The cheerleaders are having a float, it will be fun!

I better go. I have to go to Kayla's school and help out! I do that every Tuesday and on Thursday's I go to Austin's school. We got our schedules for next semester and I don't have any classes on Fridays! I am so excited!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, November 9, 2005 3:41 PM CST

TURN UP YOUR SPEAKERS - WE HAVE ASHLYN'S SONG ON THE SITE!!!!

A BIG HUGE THANK YOU to BRENDA for adding Ashlyn's song to her website! I have wanted it on there forever and it's FINALLY there! It is so cute! You'll love it if you haven't heard it yet!

Everyone is doing good. Friday we are all going to Sioux Falls for dentist appointments. Ashlyn is finally getting in for the first time. I am sure it won't go very well. Then we will start some of our Christmas shopping. I can't beleive that it is that time of year already!

On Saturday we go back to Sioux Falls for Kayla's first cheerleading competition this season. I am sure the girls will all do great!

I better go. Remember, TURN ON YOUR SPEAKERS..... and THANK YOU Brenda!!!!!

Another note not releating to anything, Jimmy and I offically started dating 8 years ago today.... wow...!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, November 7, 2005 5:11 PM CST

The urine tests came back normal. They are going to monitor her with scans for now. At least the remaining tumor is not active. I don't think that it will ever be active, it will just be something that is a part of her.

It is still beautiful outside. Too bad this week wasn't Halloween. Oh well, it was still nice. We took a bunch of pictures outside yesterday. We tried to do our Holiday picture, but they didn't turn out, probably because I didn't take them myself. The ones of the kids are pretty cute!

I better go. About dinner time and we have a cheer meeting tonight!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, November 3, 2005 1:21 PM CST

I don't get it and I don't understand!

Ashlyn had her scans yesterday. They decided they needed to check her urine and her blood. I thought maybe the urine had something to do with her kidney reflux, come to find out that they were checking her urine to see if her remaining tumor is active!!!!!!!!! WHAT REMAINING TUMOR???? We were told in August that there may be some scar tissue, but she was CANCER FREE or NED........ so I would say this means NO she isn't! Dr. T said that she was expecting that area to shrink and there was no change. I am going to assume that it is not active because it is in the same place and we were told that the tumor was dead...... well, who really knows! We were told that Dr. Schmelling also removed the entire tumor. I just don't understand what is so damn hard about telling people the TRUTH and what EXACTLY is going on!!!!!!!!

Okay, I am sorry, I had to vent. I do that A LOT after we have scans. She also has to go in today and have a chest xray done. The MRI showed signs of pneumnoia, so we have to check it out. I have pain in my right ribs when I take a deep breath, hopefully I don't get that crud I had a few weeks ago.

I better go. I have anatomy at 2 and have to get back to class. I'll post as soon as I hear anything!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, October 30, 2005 8:49 PM CST

One day to go! If you look in the photo album, there are some new pictures. I have to apologize for the size because they are so big! I just haven't figured that out yet! Haven't tried to hard either! Anyway, there was a Halloween party at the Moose today. The kids went and got lots of goodies! There is also a picture of some cheerleaders. The season started and Jadyn, my cousin's daughter, is new this year and on the Sparx squad. They just got their uniforms and we had to take pics! Ashlyn was feeling left out, so we pulled out her uniform too!

Tomorrow is the night. I think it will be okay for a while. We can't stay out too late, I have an anatomy test on Tuesday and if I want to keep my A in the class, I had better study.

Austin is so excited, his dad gets to go and have lunch with him tomorrow! He has the whole day off! Austin is just pumped up!

I'll put new pics up in a few days. Hopefully I can get some good ones! A year ago Ashlyn was in the hospital. Wow, still amazes me! Well, I better go!

Happy Halloween!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, October 27, 2005 2:57 PM CDT

Hello. Not a whole lot to update about. I had a run in with the 24 hour flu yesterday. Ashlyn must have caught it, the baby sitter called and she is running a fever now too! At least I know that it will past in the next few hours or so.

Not much else. Tomorrow is TRUNK OR TREAT at the middle school. They have a supervised deal where different companies and businesses around town open their trunks to thier cars and kids can trick or treat there during the day. We have a halloween party at the Moose too this weekend. HOpefully Monday night will be nice. I heard like 60 - better than those days where we wore snow pants - seriously.

I better go. Gotta pick up Kayla from school!

Becky, Jimmy, kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, October 22, 2005 10:57 AM CDT

366 Days since Ashlyn's Diagnosis

I can't beleive how time has gone by! I read my post from yesterday. I went over it again and again yesterday as the day went by. I would look at the clock and remember what we were doing at that time. I started to do that again today, but I am hoping to be distracted soon!

Ashlyn was diagnosed with Viscourteral Reflux Grade II in her left kidney. We don't know yet if she will see a pediatric urologist. They are checking into that. Right now she has to take a profolaxic (spelling?) for a year and they will re-do the test. TWO must be her number. She was at stage II for her cancer and now a II for her kidney refulx. I guess that will be her "unlucky" number!

Today we are taking the kids to Kayla's school carnival. I have to work the fish pond for an hour - dad will be on his own! He'll probably hate it! We aren't going to take Ashlyn - she'll just run all over and Jimmy can't really keep up. I guess she'll stay with grandma!

I better go. Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, October 20, 2005 8:56 PM CDT

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2005

365 DAYS SINCE ASHLYN'S DIAGNOSIS

October has always been my favorite month. I love the sweat shirts and jeans weather. I love watching a Friday night football game and drinking hot chocolate. I love Halloween and dressing up and the color orange. The fall is beautiful.... yeah, the earth may be “dying” but it’s so pretty outside! I just love it.

There is something about the crisp October morning that will never be the same. And looking at all the gold leaves falling off trees won’t be the same. Shoot, I don’t think I seen a football game last year in October. And the only hot chocolate I had was from the hospital vending machine. There were no costumes last year. My kids went trick or treating with my mother and sister in law. Last October, in 2004, my daughter was diagnosed with cancer.

Ashlyn had a wheeze that started in October. We had gone on vacation to Colorado and Ashlyn had a “respitory bug”. We gave her nebulizer treatments and some medications and she seemed to be doing better. About 2 weeks after we got home it started again. This time with a little higher fever. I had taken her into the ER and they sent us home because her oxygen level was fine and she seemed to have a virus. By the next evening, her wheeze was noticeable while walking across the room. I talked to Dr. Heather (Ashlyn’s pediatrician) and she wanted to meet us in the ER.

Dr. Heather had some scans taken and came into the room telling us that her scans looked funny. She wanted to admit her that night and begin treatment for pneumonia. We didn’t think a lot of it. We didn’t know what scans were suppose to look like.... how were we to know that funny shape on her lung wasn’t suppose to be there.

Ashlyn had treatment at Avera Queen of Peace for 3 days. One night while rocking her late I was flipping through the channels. There was a commercial for St. Jude’s Hospital on. For only one second, it flashed in my mind, “What if she had cancer?“ And then I thought how stupid! No way, not her! And I let it fall from my mind. On the third day they re-did her scans and there was no change. Dr. Heather hugged me and told me good luck. I really like Dr. Heather, so the hug was no surprise..... I must have blocked out the good luck part of it all.

We went to Sioux Valley Hospital thinking she had a pneumonia and it would be taken care of after a few days. They set up to do a CT scan. We were laughing when Dr. Lundien came in and said that he didn’t have good news. He told us that our 13-month-old daughter, had a mass that took up 2/3 of her lung. He didn’t know what it was yet and they wanted to do an MRI that night.

My husband was angry. My mom and my sister in law cried. I think I cried for a minute... but I don’t really remember. They took Ashlyn in for the MRI right away. I sat on her little bed and carried her to the next area. She was so silly. Her eyes were rolling around and she was giggly and her tongue was sticking out of her mouth... it was almost funny.

On October 21, 2004 we were told that they were pretty sure she had a cancer called NEUROBLASTOMA. The tumor covered the backside of her lung. They wanted to do a bone aspiration and a bone scan right away Friday morning. After they answered all of our questions, they told us that she would be fine. I didn’t cry again. I felt that knowledge was power and I wanted to learn everything I could about Neuroblastoma. We talked and made phone calls and my mom and Renee left. I remember watching Ashlyn run around the hospital room. Other than the wheeze, you couldn’t see anything wrong. I kept thinking that I was going to go to bed and it would be okay. I would wake up and it would be a nightmare. Then I thought I could just take her home and it would go away. I slept with her in the hospital bed that night.

When I woke up the next morning I had forgotten about what was going on, until the electrocardiogram rolled into the room. They needed to check her heart because she was going to need chemotherapy. That day started out with a lot of tests. Ashlyn had a bone aspiration and a bone scan done. We were relieved to find that both of those tests were clear. It appeared that the cancer was only one tumor. It hadn’t gone anywhere yet. They put a catheter in and took urine for 24 hours. We were going to be released on Saturday for a few days.

I didn’t know how to explain the fact that Ashlyn had cancer to our other two children. Kayla was 5 and Austin was 3. Kayla had heard the word cancer a few times before. The most effective - our dog had cancer and had died from it. I was terrified that she would instantly freak out when hearing the word cancer. We decided it would be best to have a child life specialist explain it to her at an age appropriate level. They took pictures and dressed up in medical clothing and had fun with it. Kayla asked a few questions and Austin didn’t really seem to care. Everyone seemed okay.

We went home on Saturday morning. We had a few visitors, but we knew that Ashlyn would have surgery in a few days, so we limited our guests. All of a sudden cards and money and phone calls came pouring in. It was great to see how much everyone cared about Ashlyn.



TODAY: We heard from the doctor about Ashlyn's kidney tests she had done. They told us that she has a GRADE 2 REFLUX IN HER LEFT KIDNEY. They said it has nothing to do with chemo. She is suppose to take meds for a year! 4 times for a year and the stuff tastes horrible. She is SO bad at taking medicines too! They did say that kids can out grow it. 4 times for a year!!!!

I see this post is really long. I have mixed feelings about October 21st. This October hasn't been much better. Hopefully next October will be better!

Thankful for many blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, October 19, 2005 8:06 AM CDT

I am glad the last few days are over. I hated having to go to "funeral" stuff. The worst was seeing my grandma and grandpa. It doesn't matter how old you are, you are not suppose to bury your own children. Everyone else did great. My dad gave the ulogy (can't spell) and he did wonderful. A lot of nice things were said about Tim and there were quite a few laughs! I was told by someone that the church sat 300 comfortably - and it was packed! It was very hard. My cousin, Tim's son, seemed to be holding alright - concidering. My dad seemed to be helping him along quite a bit. It's really sad and it makes my heart hurt. My cousin Lori made this shadow box for Leif with all kinds of stuff in it, it was really neat.

Ashlyn had her ultrasound yesterday. My sister in law, Renee, took her for me. I checked her in and she stayed with her until we were done. I haven't heard from anyone how they have turned out - maybe soon! We went to Sioux Falls afterwards. My brother has been real sick latley so mom wanted to go with to the doc - of course, we didn't find anything out really. Something about e-coli, but it doesn't explain some of his symptoms. He'll know more on Thursday - hopefully!

Kayla has her school carnival on Saturday. I get to work the Fishing Pond - or something! The kids had so much fun last year.

Ashlyn's 1 year diagnosis anniversary is Friday. A whole year. I just wish we had one more set of clear scans under our belt!

I better go. I have an anatomy test I need to keep studying for. Thank you for the xtra prayers!

Many Blessings
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, October 15, 2005 1:04 PM CDT

My uncle passed away from Lukemia. Please say a prayer for him and my family.


God saw he was getting tired
And a cure was not to be.
So he put His arms around him
And whispered, "Come with Me.

With tearful eyes we watched him suffer
And saw him fade away.
Althought we loved him dearly,
We could not make him stay.

A golden heart stopped beating,
Hard working hands to rest.
God broke our hearts to prove to us
He only takes the best.

Timothy Lloyd Evers
August 26, 1953 - October 15, 2005

Wednesday, October 12, 2005 8:26 PM CDT

Hey everyone. I put some new pics in the photo album. I apologize for their size. I still don't know how to change the size of the picture. I hate that they are so big!

The kids were outside today - it was BEAUTIFUL out! The decided to pile up all the leaves and then I took pictures as they threw them all over the neighbors yard! There is also one of Ashlyn playing on the steps.

Everyone is feeling much better. Her mysterious fever is gone. She is still pretty cranky, but doing much better. Austin is doing great with the whole idea of going to school. He has a best friend, so that really helps. Kayla is going to the pumpkin patch tomorrow for a class field trip. She is pretty sad that I can't go with her. I would LOVE to go, but I already missed school this week. She will have fun.

This weekend we are going to decorate our pumpkins. We just got some little ones this year. Last year we painted them a few days before Ashlyn was diagnosed with cancer. I can't beleive that it is less than 10 days away. It's just crazy. One year already.

My uncle is doing alright, concidering. They decided they were going to move him to a nursing home in his home town. My grandparents and an aunt and uncle live there, so they can take turns being with him. It is only about 30 mintues from our hometown, so dad will be with him often. My dad has been with him a lot, so has everyone else, but my dad hates hospitals, so I am glad that he is there with Tim.

I better go. I already did my homework, so now I can play. Maybe I can figure out how to change the size of my pics!!!!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, October 10, 2005 5:13 PM CDT

So much for that idea. Ashlyn's scans were cancelled today. They have been rescheduled for Nov. 2nd. She has had this stupid fever since Saturday. I checked her temp again a few minutes ago and she still has one. I took her in to her doc today and they did a bunch of stuff. Her urine and blood counts were normal. Her throat was kind of red, but even if it was viral, it should have showed in her blood counts. I just don't get it. They said to call again tomorrow to let them know how it is going.

I really don't like the unexplained fevers. Makes me very nervous. And now we have to wait another 3 weeks for scans. That stinks! I was ready for them to be now. And Nov. 2nd is one year after she was discharged for her biopsy. I can't beleive that a year has gone by already. It's just nuts.

Jimmy left for Aberdeen again. I think he likes working out of town. He gets to relax every night in the hot tube.... punk! I am taking a break from studying. I have an anatomy test I have to make up tomorrow morning. I am sure I will do just fine, but you never know. I have an A in the class right now and I would like to keep it that way.

My dad stopped last night for a while. The doctors made him leave my uncle for a while. He is having a hard time. No matter how old you are, your baby brother is your baby brother. Tim is still holding on, but I think he is pretty angry. And he should be. It's not fair. All of my uncles are with him and my grandparents - I can't even imagine what they are going through. Again, it doesn't matter how old you are - your child is always your child. I haven't been able to go up to the hospital, lots of reasons. Right now I am just finishing up with walking pneumonia. I still wheeze and have a barky cough. Ashlyn has been sick and I am in school full time. The two other kids have school, and basically, I am scared to go there. I know that I should and I know that if I do go there, I don't have to say anything, I need to just be there - but I can't. I don't want to. It's too hard. That is so selfish of me to think. I need to just go. We would have to go after school one day. I am only allowed to miss class two times and I missed today already, and next week Ashlyn has her renal ultrasound and her other kidney test. Honestly, I think I am making excuses for myself. Everyone else has gone, so I need to go too....:(

Well, Ashlyn is up again and she is "hungy" for "suppa". she is so cute.

I'll post again soon!
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, October 9, 2005 5:16 PM CDT

Hello everyone. Before I do any updating on Ashlyn I am going to ask for a few prayers. On Friday, a member of the Heart and Sole Cancer Walk committee was in an accident and didn't make it. Please say a prayer for Roberta's family.

My uncle is still hanging on. He has good moments and bad ones, but that is normal. My dad and all his brothers are with him, as well as my aunt Jackie and my grandparents. Say a prayer for Tim that he rests comfortably.

Tomorrow is the big day. I have the whole idea of doing scans again, but it's a good idea.

Ashlyn started to run a fever out of nowhere yesterday. It went away with motrin, but came back again last night. She was fine again this morning and started to run another one this afternoon. Right now she is running around in Kayla's pj's feeling just fine.

I, on the other hand, feel like crap. I have a yucky cough and it hurts when I take a deep breath. I don't feel very good at all. At least I am not running a fever. I guess that is something that I should watch out for.

We leave in the morning. I think that we have to take all three of the kids. I don't know what I will do with them if I don't. Jimmy has to go to work out of town again tomorrow so he can't go with. I hate to take all three of them, but I don't have much choice. I just hate the idea that we will be driving and it will still be dark out. I hate driving in the dark. That is what Jimmy is suppose to be for!

Kayla starts her cheer competitions in November. She is pretty nervous. I don't know why. Last I heard she was going to be doing tumbling in the routine. She really likes that part of it. I guess we'll have to see!

I better go. I don't feel good and my mom is screaming at the dog again. I hate my dog!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, October 7, 2005 2:19 PM CDT

Hello Firday! I get a 3 day weekend this time around because Ashlyn has scans on Monday. I am still nervous for them, but I feel better now that part of October is over.... not much of it, but part of it!

My uncle is still fighting hard. He is confused, but now he is sleeping again at this point. I just don't want him to suffer at all. We have had a lot of cancer in my family, and unfortunatly, Tim is going through the worst of it.

We don't have a lot planned for the weekend. My cousin's daughthers birthday is this weekend. She is having her party at the Days Inn so everyone can go swimming and play on the water slides. I am hoping that I feel much better so I can go swimming too! The kids will also go to the movie tomorrow afternoon. I am hoping to catch up on my scrapbooking as well.... lots of big plans!

I better go. I have to wrap Jadyn's present.

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, October 4, 2005 9:35 PM CDT

HI all. I don't have a whole lot to update. I guess I feel like typing. My uncle Tim is in the hospital again. He has been battling luekemia for a little over a year now. He has decided that he is ready to stop fighting. He has been so sick and he is very tired. My grandparents, dad and uncles and aunt are with him now. He is peacefully sleeping.....

It just makes me more angry. I have always hated the word cancer, but it touches too many lives. I hate it. It's not fair for all of the people that cancer touches.... not only the patient but their families.

Please say an extra prayer for Tim tonight instead of just Ashlyn.....

Love and Lords Blessing~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, October 2, 2005 10:37 AM CDT

Hello everyone. It's October. I can't beleive that it is October. I can't decide how I feel about that.....

Ashlyn has scans next week. I am nervous. The copy of the protocol that I have says scans in 3 months, but it's only been 2 months.

I think everyone is healthy. Ashlyn kind of has the heavy breathing thing going on, but over all she is well. Next week is my cousin's daughters birthday, so we have a party to go to next week.

Kayla is selling Christmas Wreaths for Cheerleading, so if anyone is intersted, just let me know! She is also selling raffle tickets for school. They are $.25 each, let me know!

Austin is getting a little better with school. His biggest issue seems to be that it takes too long. He is so wierd about that "too long" stuff. If we drive to walmart and he isn't in the mood, he complains of the drive. Going to Sioux Falls is even worse. He told me the other morning that the bus takes too long to get to school and that he didn't like school because it takes too long to get there. Augh.....don't know what I am going to do with that kid.

I better go. I have a lot of homework to work on. Thank you for stopping and and saying HELLO by signing the guestbook. Someday we want to print a copy of all the guestbook hellos. Maybe at the 1 year anniversary of her dx....OCTOBER 21!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, September 27, 2005 8:45 PM CDT

Hello everyone. Ashlyn went in for her 2 year check up (only one month late!) and she is doing GREAT! She is still in the 25% for height and weight, but that isn't a big suprise since Kayla is still the same way! But she is doing very well. She got a lot of comments on how her hair was growing in. It's a lot lighter than it was before, but at least we can get piggies in now!!!

Kayla is starting with a cough. I can hear her from the other room. Austin is slowly getting better at school - during the night time. He use to freak out at the mention of school and he'll get to bedtime without saying anything. He even picked out his own clothes for tomorrow. I am sure the morning will be a different story, but what is new???

Other than that we are all pretty good. We had a good time watching Denver WHOMP all over Kansas City last night. I managed to study for my test and watch. And both ended up pretty good!!!

I better go. I have another test tomorrow. Thank you for checking on Ashlyn. We love to see HELLO's in the guestbook!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, September 25, 2005 12:31 AM CDT

Hey everyone. Happy Football Day! Denver doesn't play until tomorrow, so we are watching a lot of other teams. I am taking a break from studying for a test. It's not a real hard one, but one that I want to keep my grades up.

The kids are all feeling much better. We all finished our antibiotic, so we are feel well. Kayla was complaining that her neck hurt last night, so we'll have to see if she starts with a cough. Hope not.

Kayla doesn't have school tomorrow. Austin is going to have a fit when he finds out. He still has school. He never wants to go, I just hope that this will get better soon. It's very hard to carry him to the bus everyday.

My brother is on the phone right now. He is at the Bears vs. Bengals game. He sounds like he is having fun.

Well, I better go. For all of you who get a pictures, we'll be sending them out soon. Ashlyn's will be back this week and Kayla's soon. Austin will have his taken in October.

Love and Lords Blessing
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, September 23, 2005 2:30 PM CDT

Hello everyone. Austin is feeling much better! He is playing and acting like normal - Ashlyn on the other hand still doesn't feel the best. She can't lay down and sleep without some cough medicine. Hopefully she'll be better soon.

We don't have a whole lot planned for the weekend. It's starting to get cooler out. I don't know what we are going to do. Jimmy should be here around dinner time or so. I am trying to do some new pictures on Ashlyn's website, but I don't know how to get them on there, so we'll have to see! I am going to try.

I better go. I'll update again soon!

Becky and everyone!

Wednesday, September 21, 2005 9:01 AM CDT

So much for that idea. Ashlyn's ultrasound and other tests were cancelled today. She had a horrible cough through out the night so I had called in right away this morning. Dr. Arnold had us come in and she said Ashlyn sounded horrible on the right side. She was wheezey and crackley all over. She was given a shot for croup and they are running a blood test on Austin. (he also has a yucky cough and heavy in the chest) If Austin is positive for mycroplasma then they will start a different antibiotic. I just hope she can sleep a little bit.

Well, I better go. I just wanted to update on the tests they didn't get to run. I'll post again soon.

NEW UPDATE: 3:56PM

Austin tested positive for the mycroplasm. The kids and I all started the new antibiotic. But it could be the cause of a lot of health issues we have going on at our house. I just hope it all goes away very soon!!!!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, September 20, 2005 11:02 AM CDT

Hey everyone. I hate not updating the site everyday. I just have to remember that no news is good news!

I am going to go and have lunch with Austin today. I am not sure what is going on with him lately. He doesn't want to get on the bus in the mornings any more. He is worried about going to school the night before. The teacher says he does pretty good at school during the day, it's just the bus ride that sends him over the edge! I don't know what is up with him. It's very frustrating to try and dress a 4 year old who doesn't want to be dressed. I just hope we get it worked out soon.

I will be going over to LB Williams today to help out in Kayla's class room again. I like doing that. Her teacher said that if I change my mind and want to get out of the medical field, I am a natural in the classroom. I had fun last time. I accidentally forgot last week.... oops.

Ashlyn has her tests tomorrow. I am hoping to be done by noon to get to my last 2 classes of the day. I don't like the idea of missing class. It's wierd how much I enjoy coming to school. I guess that is a good sign. It has helped that the last year and a half has been all about medical crap with my family. Maybe that is why it is so interesting. My kids have had almost everything under the sun... or I know someone who has, so I can relate to things. In psych we are talking about childhood disorders. I have a story for each one of those too. My classmates will probably get sick of my stories that I can come up with!!! LOL!!!

Jimmy is gone again this week. He is having a lot of trouble with his ankle lately. He doesn't want to admit it though. His knee and back have been bugging him and if he workds on Saturday's, he can hardly get up and walk right away. He was to "work into it" to get up and go. He doesn't like the fact that he has this trouble and has been kind of crouchy lately. I keep reminding him that it stinks, but you have to learn to accept the things that you can not change. I would tell my self that everyday for a while and it does kind of help....after a while. He has us, so he'll be okay!

I better go. I need to dash across the street to Austin's school. Hope everyone is having a great day. And a reminder, in a little over a month, it will be ONE YEAR since Ashlyn's DX! I can't beleive how time has gone by this last year. WOW!

Love and Lords Blessings
Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, September 17, 2005 10:23 AM CDT

Hi everyone. I finally heard from the doc yesterday afternoon. Austin's scan came back normal. He does have a sinus infection and is on meds for that now. Ashlyn was complaining of her bottom hurting again. I had to take in another urine sample and they found white blood cells in there. They are culturing it again. They are doing her renal utrasound next Wednesday. Hopefully those two tests will come back clear.

Not a whole lot else going on. I was pretty excited with all my grades being posted. I have 4 A's and 2 B's. I am pretty proud of myself! I just need to keep them that high!!!

I better go. I'll update again soon. I haven't changed her pics in the photo album. I need to figure out how to make them smaller first.

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, September 16, 2005 10:31 AM CDT

Hello everyone. I am at school now waiting for grades to be posted online (I love technology!) so I thought I would write a quick update.

Austin had his scans yesterday. I haven't heard anything yet. I am assuming that because they didn't call right away, that everything looked pretty normal. His west nile test came back neg, but someone somewhere said they may check that again. He must just be starting with migraines. Great thing for a 4 year old!

Ashlyn is good! She has her stuff next week on Wednesday. I am sure that everything is fine with her also. She has been pretty good on her antibiotic. She did complain a few days ago about an owie, but not much since then.

We don't have much going on this weekend. I think JImmy is actually NOT going to work on Saturday. His ankle is really bothering him lately. I just don't know what to do about it. He can only take so much pain meds, ya know? He might have to start looking into school. I know he likes what he is doing, but he just might run out of choices. His foot is so swollen when he gets home and he seems to be so cranky lately. AUGH!

I better go. I need to check my grades! So far, so good!!!!!

Love and Lords Blessing~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, September 14, 2005 8:40 PM CDT

Hey everyone. Ashlyn's new pics are still in the photo album. She is just so cute I can hardly stand it!!!! LOL!!!

Austin's teacher stopped yesterday. She said that he is doing awsome in school. She said he has 4 buddies he hangs out with everyday. The only issue we are having is with the bus. My niece, Hope, goes to school with Austin. Every day she is on the bus before him and gets off after him. He will not get on the bus if she isn't there and he has to sit with her. Today she got dropped off at grandpa's, so Austin had a FIT because Hope was off the bus before him. But their teacher says they don't play together at school.... wierd.

He goes in for his CT scan tomorrow morning. I am hoping that it will go well. They are gonig to put him to sleep, so he'll have to have an IV, but he gave his blood very well the other day. I just hope everything looks good. I talked to the hospital this morning and they said we would get the results in a few days!!!!!!!!!! What??????? When Ashlyn has scans, we wait for her to recover and wake up and we are at the doc's office getting the results a few short hours later! I don't want to wait a few days! I might have to do some complaining on that!!!!

The girls are good. We went to the park tonight and then to McDonalds for dinner... just the 4 of us. Not too peaceful with 10 other kids there! Oh well. At least everyone is in bed and almost everyone is asleep. I better go. I have to watch a movie for homework......so cool!

Many Blessings!
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, September 12, 2005 4:54 PM CDT

Hi everyone!!! Check out the photo album. Ashlyn had her 2 year pictures taken, about 2 weeks too late! But they are done!!! They didn't turn out too bad. She was scared of the table she was suppose to sit on, so we didn't have a whole lot to work with!

Austin was sick again last night. Fever and throwing up. I called the doc again today and they decided to run a west nile test on him just to be sure. He is still going to have the CT scan done on Thursday to rule out some other things.

There isn't a whole lot going on. Jimmy left town again for the week. The kids hate that. It seems like we didn't really see him a whole lot this weekend. He worked all day on Saturday and then the football season started yesterday. I don't know what happened to the Broncos! I guess they just can't win in Miami....:(

I better run. I'll update again soon. Don't forget to check out the photo album...... and say hello in the guestbook!!!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, September 11, 2005 3:28 PM CDT

I really need some lessons on how to resize my new camera's pictures. I just added a new one from today and it stinks because they are so BIG!

GO BRONCOS! Okay, so we didn't start out so good. We were hoping to win for the first time in Miami, but...... the season just started.

Not a whole lot more going on. Ashlyn goes in for pictures tomorrow. She is so picky about what she wears, so hopefully she'll wear her outfit I have picked out for her. I'll buy a disk, so I can post her pics on the site.

I better go. Many Blessings~

Becky and Family

Saturday, September 10, 2005 3:19 PM CDT

First the kids and then the dog...............!!!!!

Copper, our coon hound puppy, went into the vet yesterday to get his first rabies shot. About an hour later his face was all swollen and he kept throwing up (great visual, I know!) I called the vet he told me to give him children's benedryl. He started to perk up after that so we left it alone.

A few hours later he had a few bumps on him and then he hid for a while and he came out and he was covered in hives! He was going crazy barking and trying to scratch his whole body! I called the vet and he drove in (about 25 miles) to give him a shot. But it was midnight when we did that!

Copper is doing much better. I usually take pictures of everything, so I can't believe I didn't get one of his hives.

Ashlyn feels pretty good and so does Austin. We are going to go to the movie this afternoon. This will be Ashlyn's first trip to the movie threatre. Hopefully she'll be good.

She is getting her pics taken on Monday. I am so excited. They will be her two year pictures. She is even going to have piggy tails in! She loves piggy tails.

I better get ready for the show. We'll post again soon!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, September 9, 2005 3:59 PM CDT

Hello again.

We heard from Ashlyn's doc again today. The culture grew back positive for a bacteria. So, they are going to keep her on her antibiotic and they scheduled a renal ultrasound and some other test. They need to check out a few things with her kidneys and stuff. So excited, let me tell you. They are going to be doing that on the 21st.

Austin is going to have his CT scan done on the 15th. Hopefully nothing comes back serious.

There isn't a whole lot planned out for the weekend. It's like 100 degrees outside today.... and we've been emptying our swimming pool for 4 days now. Bad idea, because now it's really hot out again!

I went and helped out in Kayla's room today. It was fun. Her teacher said that I am a natural in the classroom. It was fun, but Kayla is going through this seperation anxiety lately. She wouldn't even go into cheerleading last night without me going with her. I don't know what is going on with her lately. She was fine after a few minutes, but she did the same thing this morning at school. I don't get it.

Well, I better go. I'll update again soon!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, September 8, 2005 3:37 PM CDT

Hello again. We had another trip to the doc today.... and suprisingly, it wasn't with Ashlyn.

Austin has been complaining of headaches off and on for a while now. It has gotten worse the last few weeks. He has started to feel sick with the headaches and they wake him up in the night. Dr. Heather said he is really too young to get migrains. She said that it isn't impossible, but unlikely. So, she decided that she wanted to have a CT scan done just to make sure there isn't something there. He goes in for that scan next Thursday morning. He didn't go to school today. He had one of his headache spells in the middle of the night and again this morning. HOpefully that goes away soon!

Ashlyn's culture hasn't come back yet. They said I should hear from them by one tomorrow afternoon. She hasn't said a whole lot about her owie.

Kayla had school pictures today. I am going to volunteer in her classroom on Friday mornings. Should be interesting.

I better go. We need to go to the store. I'll update as soon as I hear anything.......on either kid!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, September 7, 2005 3:41 PM CDT

Hello everyone. We had to make a quick trip into the doc office today. Ashlyn woke up again grabbing at her bottom and saying owie. (She did that late Sunday night) I took her in before my class this morning. They said that they found protien, sugar and blood in her urine. They are treating her for UTI (urinary tract infection). They also decided they were going to do a culture on the urine and see if anything grows. If it does then they want to do an ultrasound on her kidneys. I guess we'll find out in 48 hours.

Odd as it is, we had a test over the urinary system in anatomy today. I think I did pretty good. I feel good about it at least.

The kids are bored. Since Corn Palace Week is over, the kids don't have much to do. They think they want to take a nap and if they do, they won't go to sleep tonight!

Austin didn't have a good day at school today. My neice Hope also goes to his school and she was sick today. Austin wanted to go home because she wasn't there. Hopefull she feels better tomorrow.

I still haven't figured out how to re-size my pictures with my new camera. So I haven't added any for a while. I'll get it figured out!

I better run. Thank you for still checking on Ashlyn even though she has been decalred cancer free. It's nice to see posts in her guestbook.

Love and Lords Blessing
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, September 5, 2005 10:21 PM CDT

Hey everyone. We survived the long weekend. The kids spent a lot of time down town on all the rides. Ashlyn didn't ride this year, but she didn't really want to either. Austin was running yesterday and fell right on his head. The whole right side of his body is scraped up and bruised. The poor guy. He hit pretty hard. But he at least feels better. He was pretty wiped out last night. He started running a fever tonight and was complaining that his throat hurts. I took Ashlyn in last week and she had a virus. Her throat was all red and yucky. So I am assuming he has the same thing.


I think we got our computer fixed. My friend, Shelli, and her husband came over today and he worked on it for a few hours. So it seems to be working! Keep your fingers crossed! It's back to a school week again. I think I have a test every day this week. Yeah. LOL!

I better go. The kids keep getting up and it's way past their bedtimes. Ashlyn is sitting in her little reclyner watching Barney. She loves her chair.

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, September 1, 2005 11:01 AM CDT

Hello everyone. Sorry for the delay in posting to her site. We are having computer trouble at our house, so I don't get on line that much! Ashlyn had a good birthday. The actual day was uneventful since we had her party on Saturday.

Yesterday started Corn Palace Week. If I can get her on any rides down town, I'll post some on the site. We haven't been too impressed yet this year.

Kayla and Austin are fine. Austin started school on MOnday and he LOVES it! He looks forward to it everyday. Yesterday he was so tired, he slept on the bus ride home!

I better go. I'll post again soon.

Love and Lords Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, August 29, 2005 4:25 PM CDT

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR ASHLYN!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOU!!!!!

Ashlyn is 2! Wow. Check out the photo album, there are birthday pics. I apologize for how big they are!

More Later:

Becky

Sunday, August 28, 2005 9:16 AM CDT

UPDATE: 8.28.05 10 PM - New birthday pics!

Good morning everyone. I hope all is well for all of you.

WE had Ashlyn's birthday party last night. Her daddy works out of town during the week, so we had it last night so he could be there. Of course, he was in and out of the house because the Broncos were on! (which, by the way, Denver won!!) She had a good time. I'll put pics in her album, but they will be big since I don't know how to re-size with my new photo stuff. She got a puzzle she just loves and some care bear jammies. Right now she is really into Dora the Explorer, so she got a Dora doll. And we got her a little recliner! She loves it! And of course, some winter clothes! What else........ I just can't remember. I wanted to have a Care Bear party, but I couldn't find the party supplies anywhere. So she had a Dora party. She didn't really care!

Today we are suppose to be in a golf tourney today. My allergies are getting worse. I don't know if I can even keep my watery eyes open long enough to swing a club. I'll have to see if this new med works or not.

Tomorrow is Ashlyn's real birthday. She was born at 12:32 PM on August 29th. I can't beleive that she is 2 already. It's amazing how time has gone by! At least she is cancer free on her birthday!

Tomorrow is Austin's 1st day of school. He gets to ride the bus. He says he won't go unless I go with him. I am sure he'll do just fine. He is just nervous. Kayla loves going to school. So I hope that Austin is the same way. Now it will be just Ashlyn all alone. I am sure she'll be okay!

I better go. I have to do laundry before we head off to this tourney today. I'll post again soon!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, August 23, 2005 8:25 PM CDT

Hey everyone! Just thought I would do a quick update. Everyone is doing great.....

Kayla's first day of Kindergarten went very well! She was so excited and introduced me to her first new friend. She had her first year of preschool at 3, then went again at 4. We were sure we would send her to kindergarten at 5, but she was so small and immature. Her teachers had said she was ready academically, but not emotionaly. We sent her to "begindergarten" last year. Every day, half days and I will NEVER regret that decision. They are starting on introduction to ABC's and numbers, Kayla will fly through that. They also start reading in kindergarten and writing sentences. I don't remember doing that until at least 1st grade. She loves going to school everyday all day! She is a big girl because she can eat lunch at school, so she is hot stuff!

Austin is VERY lonely this week. He goes to my cousins while I am at school and he hates it. All the other kids started school this week and he doesn't start until next week. Jimmy is working out of town, so Austin lost his buddy. It was bad enough when Jimmy went back to work, now Austin is mad he is gone during the week. Now he is mad because the neighbor boy is at school, all his cousins and his sister. He says Ashlyn isn't any fun because she is a baby. And Austin has just been naughty this week! AUGH! On Thursday he will go and meet his teacher. He starts school on Monday and he is excited because he gets to ride the bus this year!

I had my first two quizes in my medical office class. I am happy to report that I got A+'s on both of them. I also had an anatomy quiz today and got another A+!!! I am hoping that things contiue to go this well. I have an anatomy test on Thursday and I hate that class! I am happy being there and I am glad that I finally went back. I hope it keeps going that great!

Ashlyn is busy being Ashlyn. She is queen of the world and running all over. She didn't really want to go to Karli's today either, but Austin was there. We'll see how next week goes when she is all alone. She'll be bored. Yesterday she kept saying "Ashyn, school" It was so cute.

I got a new program for my pictures and I have yet to figure out how to re-size them. I apologize for you having to go all over to see what I posted.

I better run. I have a little reading to do.... for that daily A+! Many Blessings~

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, August 21, 2005 9:51 PM CDT

We made it home! The kids had a great time! They were so bummed to leave.

The first day we unpacked and went swimming right away. Then the kids went for a ride with Yogi and BooBoo. They had promised them they would make them some smores and leave them by a tree. We hung out by the campfire for a while. It was nice to go into air conditioning and watch a movie at bed time.

They got up and went swimming again right away. They hopped out long enough to go for a ride with BooBoo. WE had to run into Sioux Falls for some forgotten items. Allergy meds for Ashlyn and myself. It was horrible. They seemed to be worse in the cabin for myself. It was amazing to not see Ashlyn's nose run! Her nose is always on the go. The meds wiped us out, because we slept a lot that afternoon. After dinner and more swimming, Kayla, grandma and I went to the theater and played BINGO. Kayla almost won on blackout, but didn't. Austin and Jimmy and Ashlyn went golfing for a while.

We left early this morning. I had to go back into Sioux Falls to exchange some stuff at Old Navy. We picked up some more outfits for Ashlyn's birthday. Her actual birthday is the 29th. I am very anal about having thier parties on any other day than their birthdays. This year it just won't work to do it any other day than Saturday. On the 29th it is a Monday. Jimmy is working out of town, and two nieces have cheerleading that night and it's a school night. The day before we are in a golf tournament, so that day won't work. So it looks like Saturday. I hate not having it on her birthday. It's just NOT THE SAME!

I better go. Tomorrow is the first day of school for Kayla. KINDERGARTEN!!!! She is having breakfast at school for the first time! I know she'll do great!

Check out the photo album. I am putting in pics from the weekend.

Many Blessings
Becky, Kayla, Jimmy, Austin and Ashlyn Renee

Friday, August 19, 2005 6:34 AM CDT

Good morning. I have a few mintues, so I thought I would put in a quick hello.

My first week of class has gone pretty good. I graduate high school in 1997, so it's been a while! I think everything will work out just fine!

We are leaving right after I get out of class today for Yogi's! The kids are so excited. I just hope it doesn't rain....!

Kayla met with her teacher and seemed to like her well. I am sure Kayla will have a great school year know matter who her teacher is.

Austin meets his teacher on Thursday night. He lost another tooth yesterday. I have to say it looks better with both of them gone and not just the one!

I better run. Talk to you all on SUnday!

Becky and Family

Wednesday, August 17, 2005 8:33 AM CDT

Good morning. I thought I would post quick before I left for school. The first day was pretty easy. I only had one class - today should be pretty easy as well.... too bad it won't stay that way!

Jimmy is out of town this week. He'll be home tomorrow night. We head out camping on Friday after my last class! I think my mom is as excited as the kids are! We just haven't been camping in a long time! I think the last I went was when I was pregant with Ashlyn.

Speaking of Ashlyn, she contiues to do great! She played outside all day yesterday and crashed nice and early! She did pretty good with my cousin. They were on the slip -n- slide when I got there.

There isn't much else to report. I guess no news is good news, right? I'll be sure to post pics of our camping weekend on Sunday. I am sure I'll update again before that.

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, August 15, 2005 0:07 AM CDT

Hey everyone. Not a whole lot to update on. We went to church this morning. Today was Father Jerry's last day. I was hoping I wouldn't get sad and get tearry eyed, but I did. He is so wonderful and he has done a lot for us the last year and a half... I just hate to see him go. He will be missed!

It was another nice day! Right around 70's. Not hot and not too cool. I am assuming that the heat isn't gone yet. We have Corn Palace Week in September and it's ALWAYS 100 degrees at least! We would like to get another day in the pool if we can!

My best friend, Angie called tonight. She said that her mom was having some tests done. They had used the "C" word. Please say an extra prayer for Sharyl when you go to bed tonight. They are hoping to find something out tomrrow. She has been so sweet to us. She brought us money and gifts when Ashlyn was diagnosed and she joined us at the Cancer Walk a few weeks ago. Sharyl, just like Angie, has a HUGE heart! Just say an extra prayer for her tonight!

I better go. I need to get into this habbit of going to bed early! Jimmy starts work out of town this week! At least one month in Aberdeen! I am not too excited about it! I had to do all his laudry and pack for him tonight, so I am up late again. Starting Tuesday morning - is 6:30 wake up everyday.......YUCK!! LOL!

Love and Lords Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Princess Ashlyn

Friday, August 12, 2005 11:47 PM CDT

Hello everyone. Today was just beautiful! I actually wore jeans all day and was so comfortable. The kids were outside all day and all but Kayla crashed early!

I put two new pictures in the photo album tonight. I found one of my digital camera memory cards and checked out the photos. They are old! But there were two really cute ones of Ashlyn. You'll have to check them out!

We didn't do a lot today. Austin's teacher came over and went over things for school for him. He gets to ride the bus and eat breakfast and lunch at school. I hope he really likes it. Tomorrow Kayla's friend, Connor, will be coming over for a while. I dont know what else is going on.

Monday I am going to head over to the school and get my books for my classes. School starts at 8 AM on Tuesday morning for me! I am excited and nervous all in one!

Wednesday night Kayla has open house at her school where she can go and meet her new teacher. She is so excited for school to start! I hope she excited like this every year. ON Thursday we have uniform swap for cheerleading, so I'll be working on that. And Friday is when we leave for our big camping trip. The kids are pretty excited. We are taking Copper with us (our new puppy). I don't know how I feel about that yet. I'll let you know how it goes.

Well, I better run. It's almost midnight already! I'll update again soon.

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

PS~ Congrats to my cousin Jamie. She is getting married Aug. 13th!

Wednesday, August 10, 2005 11:43 PM CDT

Hey all. Not a whole lot to update, but a few quick words.

Kayla is doing MUCH better. After breakfast today she managed to stop squeezing her nose shut. Her breath is getting better! She did 150% better than Austin did. He went 2 weeks and every day was BAD! She hasn't had any pain meds since Monday night and she is eating again. I think her voice sounds wierd though.....?

Ashlyn is getting into the potty thing. She spends hours in the bathroom just sitting on the pot....her choice, not mine. So we finally got her a singing potty and planted it in the livingroom for now. She was up dancing around and peed all over the floor. She was pretty bummed. But it is hard to get her to keep a diaper on these last few days.

Tomorrow we are headed to Woonsocket to see my grandma. She didn't get to see Kayla the last time we went, so we are going to visit before school starts. On Friday Austin's home based teacher comes to tell us about school this year. He is going in the mornings and has Ms. Elaine. Then Miah, Vinnie, Hope, Nolan and Heather are coming over to swim for a while. On Saturday, Kayla's friend Connor is coming over for a while and on Sunday we are going to have a BBQ with Jimmy's cousin. Monday isn't much and Tuesday starts school. On Wednesday Kayla has open house at her school adn Thursday cheerleading starts. Friday we leave to go camping....... whoa......!

Well, I better go. Austin kept me up until after 1:30 last night and Kayla doesn't look very tired.

Love and Lords Blessing~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, August 8, 2005 11:19 PM CDT

Hi all, again there isn't much to update.

Kayla still feels awful. Dr. in Sioux Falls said to ride it out and see what happens. She isn't taking her pain meds, we are just doing motrin and tylenol. But she is still throwing up a lot. I don't get it. She dropped a few pounds. We were suprised when she stepped on the scale today and it said 40! Last we checked she was around 46...

I need to get a copy of the MRI report from Dr. T. From what I understand, all the tumor isn't gone, according to this report. I don't get what is going on. This will be the second time she didn't tell us everything. I know they said there was an area that was questionable, but she was pretty sure that it was from the surgery and that it should be gone in October when they do the scans. I just don't get it and it is making me mad.

Jimmy had a pretty uneventful birthday. He is the big 3-0! So funny! We went out for dinner and he opened his presents. A new some kind of golf club he needed, some more golf balls, new clippers and tomorrow he'll get Madden '06. There must be a lot of 30 year olds who still play video games!

My grandparents are stopping through tomorrow on their way to my cousin's wedding in Wisconsin. We haven't seen them in a while, not even sure if it was after Christmas or not. Ashlyn was just a baldy last time they seen her.

Austin figured out how to ride his bike with out training wheels. He is so excited to keep up with Kayla! He's pretty proud of himself! He's getting so big!

Ashlyn ventured into underpants today. She was pretty mad when I had enough of the sitting on the toilet for over an hour and made her put her diaper back on. She tore it off, threw it and said "DON'T LIKE IT!!!" She'll tell me when she has to go and then one second later she says "all done". Not enough time to even get close to the bathroom. We hae time, she'll only be 2 in 3 weeks.....

Well, Kayla is calling...... I'll post again soon!

Love and Lords Blessing~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, August 7, 2005 11:29 PM CDT

Hello hello hello. There really isn't a whole lot to update on. We spent the day outside - well, Jimmy, Austin and Ashlyn did. Kayla is throwing up now, which feels awful since she just had her tonsils out. She doesn't want to eat anything or drink, so we have her take two big drinks every 15 minutes. She seems hydrated, so that is good!

August is a HUGE month in our family for birthday's. We have 7 birthdays! Jimmy will be 30 tomorrow! I can't beleive that he is 30!!!!!!!!! It's crazy! I remember when he was 21......... seems so long ago! But 30!!!!!! I still have 3 years, 6 months and 3 days until that day! I just can't get over the fact that he is 30! Wow.....he's getting old! LOL!

This week isn't too eventful. We find out who Kayla's teacher is finally and on Thursday we are going to Woonsocket to visit my grandma. She hasn't seen Kayla in a while. And Friday Austin's school lady comes and fills us in on him and his new school. He's kind of excited about it. I hope he loves it! We have been talking about him being old enough to participate in stuff this year. He doesn't have a lot of choice, but wrestling is something we'll start him off in. My brother has won many state and national titles, so he is going to teach Austin some moves. I think Austin will like he gets to be a little rough with the other boys. Cheerleading is right around the corner. Next week starts regular season again. Kayla is pretty excited. I have to admit, I like the season too, it's fun to go to competitions and stuff!

Well, I better go. One of these days I'll have to get back into the habbit of going to bed early...... not looking forward to that!!!!!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, August 6, 2005 11:39 PM CDT

Hi everyone. It's late Saturday night and I am waiting for Kayla to fall asleep.

She had her tonsils out yesterday and she did 10 times better than I thought she would. She is a 'preteen drama queen' so I thought it would be so bad, but she has been good. She doesn't want to take her pain meds, but the she doesn't want to drink. Austin had a terrible time when he had his out, we were in the hospital doing IV's for a few days, hopefully that won't happen with her.

Ashlyn is doing good. She spent sometime out side today with Grandma. There isn't much going on. We are just waiting for the 19th. We are going camping and it will be so much fun. We rented a cabin at Yogi Bear's Campgound in Sioux Falls. The kids are really looking forward to it.

We have mentioned to the kids that school will be starting early - which means earlier bed times. Kayla slept all day, so she is up late, but soon it will be back to bedtime at 8 AM. I am slow at finding daycare. I am not looking forward to sending Ashlyn. I am leaning toward a center based day care instead of home based. I don't know if it matters or not. She has never been away from me and she hates people. I am very nervous about it. I was hoping for openings at the school daycare, but they are full.

I better go. Just wanted to let everyone know how the kids are. Enjoying the weather.....

Many Blessings~
Becky and family

Wednesday, August 3, 2005 11:08 PM CDT

Okay, I didn't get to update last night. We had a little party for Ashlyn. She has ber celebration date now. We'll have to celebrate every year she is cancer free. We are still so excited. We knew she would be NED, but it was the wait to hear it offically. There was an area that was questionable, but regardless, she is NED. I thought her scans would be every three months, but we do them again in October. OCTOBER - what a scary month. It use to be my favorite. I love fall and the colors, I still do, but the smell of a crisp morning will always remind me of Ashlyn and being dx with cancer. At least I'll have warm summer nights to remind me that she is okay and she will be okay!

I added a new picture to the photo album. Traci (president of the heart and sole committee) had someone come and take it. It looks awsome! I love the luminaries - go look at it. It was taken by Korrie Wenzel.

We finally had some rain. We haven't had much since June. The kids liked the thunder - until it got really close. But it was nice to have rain. Tomorrow is suppose to be nice.

I missed the end of the year meeting for the Cancer Walk last night. We didn't get home until almost 7 and then we had her little party. I was going to voulenteer to take over the teams position. I am very new to the committee and I didn't get to do a whole lot this year, but next year....

Kayla gets her tonsils out on Friday. She is such a "PRETEEN DRAMA QUEEN!" She is already having a cow. I told her she had two days left and she is not happy. We may go over and stay with Jimmy's sister tomorrow night, but I don't know yet. She isn't expected to stay over night in the hospital, so we'll be home on Friday night - I'll be sure to update on her progress. As long as she gets babied - she'll be good to go!

I would like to say THANK YOU to every one who has been with us and prayed for us over the last 9 months. All of our family and friends! Our new friends: The cancer warrior angels - Loryn, Laura and Shannon and Christmas Angel Kim. Chris who did a beautiful job on her website. DR. HEATHER (if it weren't for her "instincts" it could have been so much worse!) Dr. Heather's office for checking on Ashlyn every day. Dr. T's office and Dr. Schmelling and his staff in Minneapolis. Lily and Tonya, our family in Colorado, Mary H. from Minneapolis, Sioux Valley Hosptial Peds floor, our church (Father Jerry ~ we will miss you guys so much!) Brandy and Kohl (what are the chances I would find someone I know in Mitchell with the same type of cancer who can relate how I feel and what we have been through - and how it feels the night before a scan or the pit you get in your stomach when the kid gets a fever and nothing else) I can't stress enough OUR FAMILY!!!! AND BEST FRIENDS!! You all know who you are! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU. Seriously, Thank you.

Okay, I better go. Kayla doesn't want to go to sleep and she needs to because I AM SO TIRED!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

*****************

Gas to drive to Sioux Falls ~ $29.50

A late breakfast for your other kids in the hospital cafeteria ~ $21.06

A color book and colors for the wait ~ $6.75

Hearing the news your daughter is cancer free ~ PRICELESS

Tuesday, August 2, 2005 6:48 PM CDT

I have two words for you all: CANCER FREE!!!!!!!!!!

I'll update more tonight, I just wanted to share that quick!

Becky and family

Monday, August 1, 2005 1:05 PM CDT

NEW PHOTOS ~ 8.1.05 ~ FROM THE CANCER WALK

Hey everyone. I just added a few new photos from the cancer walk. Ashlyn's uncle Jacob (Jimmy's little brother) ran the 5K run in honor of Ashlyn. He got 3rd place in his age group. Way to go Jacob!

We had a "family" day in the pool yesterday. It was nice! It was hot out and the water was actually cool, so it felt good. We also planned out camping trip. We are going to do something a little different this year. We booked a cabin at Yogi Bear Campgound. WE're going to go the weekend before school starts for the kids. I start on the 16th, so we are going to leave Friday afternoon. It's a short trip, but it will be a blast! We are all looking forward to it.

We didn't get out to the hills this summer. We always seem to go at one time or another. We had a lot going on with Jimmy and Ashlyn though....

Speaking of Ashlyn, she has scans tomorrow. I am so nervous. I know she'll be NED, but I can't help but worry about it. In April I did the same thing and was pretty dispointed. This is really different though. They removed her tumor.... a month ago today. I hear from other parents who have been through this, you'll never NOT be nervous during scan time. Or even when she gets sick.

Well I better run. I'll post more pics again in a few days~

Many Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, July 30, 2005 8:46 PM CDT

Sorry for the late update. Check out some pictures in the photo album. They are from last night!

It was awsome. I was so busy running all over the place that I didn't have time to get emotional. I guess that is a good thing. She hated riding the survivor lap in the jeep. She wanted to see Travis and Renee.

My brother Matt had a HUGE Daktronics board there that had pictures of all the co-chairs (there were three) and the board looked great. In a day or so, I'll put up more pics. I wish that I knew how to do whatever it is they do when some people post a bunch of pictures on one. It would be nice to put them all on there.

I know I seen some family that were "choked" up while she rode during the survivor lap. It was pretty cool. They played her song, ASHLYN RENEE and her and Kayla got up on stage and danced! It was so cute.

I didn't really do much committee stuff after we had gotten set up in the morning. Renee and I did all the balloons (500) and they had gotten all knotted together and it was a huge mess. The one BIG thing we did. It was hard to be a committee member and have a co-chair in our group. I am so excited to start my Heart and Sole scrapbook. I haven't taken my camera in yet. I am having some trouble with it lately. Some of my pictures have been blurry lately. Not sure what that is about. I love my digital!

Well, I better go. I'll post more about the walk. Oh yeah, last year they raised $42,000.00 for area cancer patients and this year as of 10:00 last night, the total was at $52,500!!!! That is awsome. The Heart and Sole stays locally, as Relay for Life is national. Which ever, they are GREAT causes!

Okay, more later.....Many Blessings
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, July 28, 2005 3:49 PM CDT

Well....tomorrow is the BIG day! I am really excited for it, but I am also sad. Now I don't have a whole lot to look forward to! I guess school will be starting soon and cheerleading will go back to regular times.... but still...

Yesterday was the anniversary of my friend, Teresa's death. She died 5 years ago already. It's amazing how time has gone by. I think of her almost everyday. I wonder what she would be up to, if she would still live in Mitchell. The kids and I went out the cemetary yesterday to put a rose on her headstone. Austin wanted to know why we were going to visit zombies. I found some humor in this! Kayla dusted off the headstone and sat some of the flowers back off. It sucks. I hate cancer!

I'll put some pictures on the web site either late Friday night or early Saturday.... if my camera doesn't give me grief. The last half of Kayla's birthday pictures are blurry. Maybe it was just me. I just want all the pics to turn out good!

Mom and I decided that we are going to do a scrapbook on just the cancer walk every year. This year will have many more pics because Ashlyn is a co-chair, but it is awsome.

I better go. WE still have lots to do for tomorrow. I just thought I would do a quick update.

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, July 26, 2005 8:11 PM CDT

Hey everyone. We had a busy day in Sioux Falls. Kayla went to the dentist around 8 this morning. Her teeth look great. She is close to losing her 8th tooth!

Speaking of losing teeth - Austin lost his first one today! It was hanging by a thread and he finally let his dad pull if out. He's so excited. They came in early (about 4 months of age) and they are falling out early!

Jimmy's doctor's appointment went..... well, I guess it went. The doc said his ankle is deteriorating (can't spell). He said it is possible by April or May of 2006 he'll need an artificial ankle. They didn't evaluate how he is doing. They said they would do that in January.

Kayla is going to have her tonsils removed on August 5th. I wanted it done before I start school the 16th. She has been moved up to the Spirit squad for cheerleading. (Way to go Kayla!) That is the 6th grade and under squad. They also want her to go to a stunting camp the week after her tonsils will be taken out. We wanted her to be feeling better for that. I was suprised last week at open gym that she was working on back handsprings!

Isn't the weather funny? On Saturday we had record ties of 105 outside. Today it's only 66! The weather bug says the temp could drop to record lows in the 50's! It would be GREAT if Friday night is beautiful weather!

We are all looking forward to Friday. I have gone for a few years, but this year will take on a whole new meaning. For Ashlyn to be named as an HOnorary Co-chair - that is so special! Especially since this is her first year with having cancer! We are so lucky that she is doing as well as she is. There are many families that aren't as lucky as we have been. On the 2nd she'll finally be declared CANCER FREE!

I better go. I haven't scrapbooked in a LONG time.... and I am so good at keeping up with that stuff! I have been slacking!

Many Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, July 25, 2005 4:42 PM CDT

Hey everyone. I thought I would do a small update. There isn't a whole lot to update on..... I suppose that is good news!

We had church at the golf club yesterday. Father Jerry is moving in August. We are so sad to see him go. He has been wonderful in the past year and a half that we have known him. It's too bad.........

Kayla started complaining on Saturday that the outside of her ear hurt. Last night it was so bad it hurt all the way down her neck. I took her into the doc again and her ear canal is swollen, which is why her whole side of her ear hurts. She couldn't even eat lunch today it hurt so much. She just finished her meds for strep throat on Saturday. I put pictures from her birthday in the photo album.

We head over to Sioux Falls for all day. Kayla goes to the dentist at 8, Jimmy has a CT scan on his leg at 11, Jimmy meets with Dr. Alvine at 1:45 and then Kayla sees a doc about having her tonsils removed. My friend Shanna is watching the kids while we go on these appointments. Jimmy wasn't too excited about taking time off work. Not much we can do about it though.

The cancer walk is Friday! I can't beleive it. I am really hoping for nicer weather. It has been hot. We finally got some rain today! I don't want rain, but cooler temps would be great. We start set up for the committee at 8 AM. Mom and everyone can start setting up our tent site around noon. It will be awsome. I have been having trouble with my pictures getting blurry lately. We want to do a scrapbook on just the cancer walk, so I hope I don't have a lot of trouble Friday.

I better go. It's time to start dinner. Many Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, July 22, 2005 0:04 AM CDT

Hello everyone! Ashlyn is doing GREAT!!!!!! She has a had a few good days of swimming! And more ahead!

Kayla is 6 today!!! I can't beleive how time has litterally FLOWN by! It still just amazes me.... ya know! She is having some friends over tonight. Gracie from cheerleading and Jadyn and Heather (cousins). Tomorrow, or should I say later today, is the big party. We are having 26 kids over for her party. Of course, most of them are cousins. But still.... 26 is TOO many kids!!!

Kayla had cheerleading tonight. They have open gym during the summer months. They had arranged their teams and Kayla was put on the older squad. They must feel that she belongs there - or they won't put her there. Now she is going to go to stunting camp - hopefully!

I better run. HAPPY BIRTHDAY KAYLA!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, July 20, 2005 4:44 PM CDT

Hey everyone. Yesterday was pretty warm out, so Ashlyn FINALLY got to go swimming. She was so excited. I put pictures of her in the pool in the album. She had fun.

Kayla turns 6 on Friday! (Where does the time go?) We keep asking her what she wants for her birthday, and she is so boring. She likes to color, draw or write. She doesn't play with Barbies or dolls or polly pockets. She said she would like school clothes (boring) or shoes. So my mom took her to Walmart yesterday. She found a motorized bumber boat. Of course, she didn't have to wait till Friday to have it. You can see Ashlyn is riding on it in the pool. It goes pretty slow - but it's cute.

She got to go swimming again today for a while. Jimmy's cousin is coming in from Colorado again for a few days. The kids will swim a lot this week.

Next Tuesday we go to Sioux Falls for Jimmy's appointments with Dr. Alvine. His leg was really bad last night. It was swollen really bad. He has a lot of bad days. There are some days he doesn't walk very well - but Dr. Alvine said that would happen. It's too bad. He is having a hard time with playing with the kids outside. He wanted to help Kayla learn how to ride her bike with no training wheels, but he can't run behind her. He was happy when she learned by herself. The kids like to go for bike rides with us, but Jimmy can't go because his knee doesn't really work well with pedals. He can't play ball with Austin, well, he can, but only Austin can chase down any balls. He just hates it....

Well, I better go. I'll update again soon. Kayla is having 2 parties on Friday. She is having all her school friends over at 5 and all of her cousins are coming over at 7.

Thanks for all the guesbook entries~

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, July 19, 2005 1:38 PM CDT

Today Ashlyn and I went down to Q107 for the Heart and Sole Pie Auction. Ashlyn said hello on the radio and they asked me a few questions. Wouldn't ya know that while we were gone - Dr. T had called. She said Ashlyn will need no futher treatment. The chemo may not have shrunk the tumor - and it had matured, but it was begnin! (Is that how you spell it?) She will have scans the first part of August and from there, she should be concidered CANCER FREE! Dr. T said that we can't say that until after the scans. I checked her protocol and it says that she will have scans every 3 months for the first year, then every 6 months for 2 years and then yearly for anywhere from 8 - 10 years.

Ashlyn will have her scans on August 2nd. I'll be sure to post RIGHT after we get home.

Thank you for all the prayers and positive thoughts! We appreciate it so much!

More soon...........

Becky< Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, July 18, 2005 9:40 PM CDT

Hey everyone. I think I expressed how the parade went on Saturday. Today was much better out! The kids played outside all afternoon.

We got a call at 5:57 tonight. The pathology report came back. He said that the tumor had matured since the biopsy in October. He said it was Dr. T's call, but he didn't think she would need anymore treatment. She would only need scans over the next few years. We should know for sure tomorrow. Then we'll need to do scans, have her be declared in N.E.D (no evidence of disease) and then we can celebrate!

We got a stupid puppy yesterday. He is very cute! He is a mut - part chocoate lab and part coon hunter. He is just cute. His name was Copper, but Austin changed it to Kahoona. Okay... whatever! He has been good. Only 1 accident in the house. He took a nap with Ashlyn yesterday - it was so cute!

I put a new picture in the album. It was the picture from the Daily Republic that they had printed. It's so cute. I wish they would have had a link to the story on their website, but they don't.

I'll update again soon!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, July 16, 2005 9:07 PM CDT

What a HOT AND MISERABLE DAY! It got up to 100 degrees today. 105 with the heat index. We were downtown early to decorate the Xtreme Float - which looked awsome! It was just too hot. We need to petition the city or rodeo committee to change it and start the parade at 10 AM instead of noon. It was just terrible out. My mom and Austin left early because Austin started to get sick from the heat. Mom also said that there were piles of candy and the kids didn't even go after it because it was so hot. When we got home we all went for a quick swim and the pool was even warm. It wasn't much of a relief.

Ashlyn story ran today in the daily republic. I looked for a link on their website, but I couldn't find one. Mari, from the paper, did a very good job with it... and the picture was so cute!

We met some new kids today, Tyson, he was the co-chair last year for the cancer walk. He is such a trooper - he is still going through so much. I would direct you to his website, but I don't think he has one. Just say an extra prayer for him. We also met, Sydney - a 4 year neuroblastoma survivor. She is also doing great! And we got to see Kohl today. He has such cute hair! It's all spikey and soft! Such a doll!

I put new pics in the photo album, so take a peek!

I am going to go. It's very hot and everyone is very tired and ready for bed.

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, July 14, 2005 11:20 PM CDT

*****Ashlyn's story will run on Saturday in the Daily Republic!****

****Rodeo parade noon in Mitchell. Kayla is on float #64 and Ashlyn is on float #113****

*****I wanted to tell you about a little girl named Hanna. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor when she was 14 months old. Sadly, she didn't make it through her battle and died at almost 4 years old on August 9th, 2004. Her family is requesting a balloon release from all over the country. At 5 PM on the 9th, the kids and I are going to release some balloons for Hanna. Her mom would love it if you could join in. You can visit her website at: www.caringbridge.org/ms/hanna .*****

Okay, on to an update. We are still doing parade things. Kayla hadn't decided if she was going to walk for sure. The coaches put her in with the bigger girls so she is fired up. She loves being included with the bigger girls! I picked up our signs and I am in the process of making some XTREME boards. We'll need them for the next season anyway! We got Ashlyn's shirt. Of course, I didn't take a pic yet. It's so cute!

Kayla went in to the doc today for her 6 year check up. She actually grew almost 4 inches this year! She is in the 20th percentile for her age now! And still in the 25th for weight. She was pretty excited to not have shots. I talked to Dr. heather today about having Kayla's tonsils removed. She has had strep (or scarlett fever) 3 or 4 times in the last 7 months, so she is able to have them removed. We go to Sioux Falls again on the 26th, so we'll meet with the doc then. I would like to have them out before school starts!

I took all the kids to open gym night for cheerleading tonight. Ashlyn went and sat with Kayla while she stretched and she even tried to copy the cheers. It was so cute. I think they can start when they are 3 - one year to go!

I better run. The girls went to sleep super early, so they will be up early!

Many Blessings~
Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Spoiled Princess Ashlyn

Wednesday, July 13, 2005 11:57 PM CDT

Hi everyone!

***Ashlyn's story will run in the Daily Republic on Saturday July 16th in the LIFE section!***

Today was the day to turn in luminaries for the Cancer Walk. Our team sold 128 luminaries - $640.00. Not too shabby! We picked up our team shirts and stuff today! Ashlyn's will be so cute! Kelly (who is in charge of teams) said it was okay to have something special printed on Ashlyn's shirt. I'll get it tomorrow and post a picture of it on the site. The front is the regular Heart and Sole Cancer Walk logo and then it says, "I'm kicking cancer's butt" on the back of it. She is going to wear it for the parade.

I had to take Kayla in to the doc today. She has strep throat, again. She is still running a low fever and still won't eat much. Tomorrow she goes in for her 6 year check up. She'll be 6 on the 22nd. She is having a birthday party that night. Her family is so big, it's hard to invite friends! With just cousins and Ashlyn and Austin, we are already at 18!

We are geared up for the parade. I am on the parent committee for cheerleading and we are busy planning the float for Xtreme. We decorate on Saturday morning. Xtreme Cheerleading (Kayla's float) will be #64). Ashlyn and I are on the heart and sole float, #113. It will be so hot too. I read on weatherbug that it is suppose to be in the mid 90's. YUCK! At least we don't have to walk. Traci said we will be riding in a jeep or something. I don't know if Jimmy will be there or not. He has to work, so we'll have to see. I think Austin might ride with us too, just depends. He wants to get some candy!

I am waiting for everyone to go to sleep. Travis is here because everyone at his house is leaving early. Austin was being a stinker tonight! He kept fighting with Travis. Ashlyn finally fell asleep watching barney. She tipped over in her chair again. Now that Kayla is feeling better, she is wide awake watching "Rudolf the Red nosed reindeer." Christmas movies in July........!

I better go! I'll update again soon! Don't forget to pick up the paper on Saturday!

Many blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Princess Ashlyn

Tuesday, July 12, 2005 9:09 AM CDT

We finally made it home yesterday! It was a horrible drive! We left around 6:30 AM and the kids slept to North Platte. They managed to stay awake for the last 4 1/2 hours. Austin about drove us crazy....... "are we there yet? when will we be there?" and he said this over and over and over and over....

Ashlyn was so happy to see Kayla and Austin. She ran past me to her dad. My mom wasn't kidding when she said she was back to having bad nights. At least she didn't get up at 5 this morning.

We are busy getting ready for the rodeo parade. Kayla is going to be in it for cheerleading. We are decorating that float Saturday morning. Jimmy has to work, so it will be just Ashlyn and I in the parade for Heart and Sole. I am so excited! It is such a big honor!

Ashlyn's story is suppose to run in the daily republic on Saturday. I am curious to see how it turns out! I am sure it will be good. I'll set up a link to it on Saturday so everyone can see it!

I better go. I have a hundred and one phone calls to make!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, July 9, 2005 10:12 AM CDT

Hi everyone! Can you beleive that Jimmy and I made it to our anniversary this year! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY TO US! We have actually been together for a little over 8 years, but we were FINALLY married a year ago today! I guess we knew what we were talking about when we said, "FOR BETTER OR WORSE, IN SICKNESS AND IN HEALTH"

Ashlyn continues to do well. She still doesn't really have an appetite. She is still in South Dakota with my mom. Mom says she doesn't want to eat much, but she does drink well! She is back to having her night terrors. She is up screaming at night. I forgot that when she gets back from hospital stays she is that way - and it will last a few months.

We are heading home tomorrow. Jimmy's family here in Colorado has plans for us tonight - I guess. Yesterday we took Kayla and Austin to Water World. WOW! It was really neat. The only thing that really stunk was the lines. They have TONS of stuff to do. We didn't even get to do everything in 7 hours! The kids had a great time.

Next week is the Rodeo parade. We have a parent meeting for Cheerleading to decide on a float for Xtreme for the parade. Ashlyn, JImmy and I will ride on the HEart and Sole floats.

I better go. We are getting ready for the day. I will talk to you all again soon!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, July 7, 2005 3:06 PM CDT

Big Hello from Colorado!

Ashlyn is doing pretty good hanging out with Grandma. We got to Kristie's about 11:30 or so. Austin was so happy to see Kayla and she was so happy to see us. She lost a tooth while she has been gone and her hair got longer .... I know, it's only been 3 weeks!

I think we are leaving on Saturday morning. Jimmy says he wasnts a day to relax.

I'll update again soon. Thank you for all the prayers!

Many Blessings!
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Princess Ashlyn

Wednesday, July 6, 2005 3:44 PM CDT

WE'RE HOME! We got to leave pretty early this morning. Ashlyn did very well for the ride home- she slept for most of it. She didn't go to bed until after 1 last night and was up on and off through the night and up again around 6.

Jimmy, Austin and I are headed to get Kayla. I put some pictures in the album of our week in Minneapolis. I'll update again soon!

thanks for all the prayers!

Jimmy, Becky and Family

Tuesday, July 5, 2005 1:45 PM CDT

Hello everyone. I hope you all had a great 4th of July. We were able to see the fireworks from the room. They were shot from over by the Metrodome and it was a perfect view. Funny, there seemed to be a lot of purple and gold ones.... lol! I could hold Ashlyn for a little bit, so we could see them for a while. She was tired and sore, so she wanted me to put her down.

Ashlyn lost her tubes today. The chest tube and the catheter and the epidrual came out today. She has tried to walk a little but she is still pretty wobbley. She was happy to be free and loved to look out the window of her room. She managed to finally eat a donut and a half today! She isn't drinking a lot, but just a little. Hopefully that will pick up so they don't use the IV again.

We had a visitor today. I know I have mentioned that we check websites everyday and one of our families stopped by today. Tanya and Lily Hoven stopped. Lily is almost 22 months old (just like Ashlyn) and she also is a Neuroblastoma survivor! I took a few pictures of them togetther. Lily brought her a balloon and some fruit. It was nice to visit with another mom who knows what we are going through. I'll post a picture of the two of them on her site when we get home.

I am not sure when we will leave. Maybe tomorrow. Our next thing to do is to get Kayla. Mom, I think, is going to keep Ashlyn so we don't have to make her drive that far. We are planning on a very short trip. I think there are a few people we would like to see while we are there. WE don't know yet if Austin will be coming or not. Kayla was pretty excited. The tooth fairy managed to find her in COlorado!

Well, Ibetter go. Ashlyn didn't want me to leave and she wants to play in the playroom. Talk to you all again soon.

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, July 4, 2005 10:31 AM CDT

I managed to get away. I left the update my mom wrote just below this one. Not much has changed. The one doc came in and adjusted her epidural. She said she thought it would be best if it if would stay in until tomorrow after they remove the chest tube. Ashlyn seems to be comfortable now, but she still is on pain meds and has the epidrual.

She can finally see out the window. If you look out her room window you can see the skyscrappers of downtown. The Metrodome is right out there too. She seen the buildings today and pointed at them and said "house". Someone said that they fireworks are shot from the Metrodome, so we'll have a great view -if that is how it works. We'll have to see!

I don't know for sure when we will be coming home. Maybe late tomorrow, but probably on Wednesday. Our next venture will be to get Kayla right away. I can't wait to see her. Ashlyn will all of a sudden say, "miss you ka". It's cute. She got to talk to Austin on thephone today. She was sad to hang up.

I better go. Ashlyn wasn't too happy that i had left. She is still sleeping a lot, so I may get away soon. This hospital isn't like Sioux Valley's. They have computers in the resource room and it's only open for certain hours. I update when I can.

Happy 4th of July!

Becky, Jimmy and family


I am going to try to do an update for my daughter Becky she is laying in bed with Ashlyn, she wont let her get up. The doctor was in the chest tube still is in he said maybe tomorrow it can come out. She is sitting up for a short period of time she is taking fluids real well but still not eating much. She has been eating crackers.They will do an xray in the morning I am sure she wont like that she doesnt like people around her. The Iv's are still in not sure when they come out. The good news is that it looks like she didnt develope horner syndrome. She is still sleeping quit abit whick is good when shes up she gets upset pretty fast. They said that they will beable to see the fireworks from there window tonight it is at the metrodome. It will be a sad fourth everyone is in different places. Cant wait until we can alll be together again. I know Becky would of done a better job on this I hope she can up date it tomorrow. Thank you for all your prayers. grandma

Sunday, July 3, 2005 10:57 AM CDT

So much for the idea of mom and Renee leaving any time soon. Ashlyn had a fit if she wasn't near grandma and Renee needed to be in view. When she is having one of her screaming fits, that chest tube really drains. Jimmy doesn't think we'll be out of here until Wednesday or Thursday. I guess we'll see.

As of now she is having "gas" problems. She hasn't had a BM since Thursday, so her tummy is bothering her. She wants to eat some icecream (sherbert) but she wants to feed herself. Most of the icecream is running off the spoon before she gets into her mouth. She started crying about 7 this morning and hasn't really stopped.

We had to try and venture to Target yesterday. We made it, but it took a long time. We managed to get lost, but we found our way. We found a cute little puppy for Ashlyn at the gift shop. She calls him Spunky (Renee's dog's name).

Austin is missing grandma. He said hello to Jimmy and I - not a miss you, nothing! But we were suppose to tell grandma that he misses her so much!

I better go. Grandma is upstairs with Ashlyn and she probably needs a break. I'll update again tomorrow.

Many Blessings~
Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, July 2, 2005 9:42 AM CDT

What a HORRIBLE night! Ashlyn's doctor didn't want her to sleep without wearing something called "no no's". They are these braces they put on her arms so she can't bend them. She had a tube that ran from her nose to her stomach, so they were worried that she would pull it out. So, Jimmy an I thought we would try to sit up in shifts.. yeah right. Jimmy went to sleep around midnight and by 1:30, I couldn't even keep my eyes open anymore. Jimmy got up and stayed with her until 3:00. I finaly went down and got my mom. She stayed with Ashlyn until about 8. But Jimmy and I were awake because Ashlyn was screaming from 4:30 until about 6:00. She just doesn't want to calm down.

The doctor came in and removed the tube from her nose. She is thirsty, but her throat must hurt because she doesn't drink much without crying. It is really hard to see her so mad and unhappy. It's worse knowing you can't do much about it. She is just so mad. It will get worse today when my mom and Renee leave. She is going to be pissed.

There isn't a whole lot more to update. The doctor said that he didnt think the pathology report would be back before we left, so we won't know much about the tumor. He said he doubts she will need anymore chemo or anything, it will just depend on the pathology report and if they find anymore cancer cells. I am sure there will be none.

I better go. Thanks for all your prayers!

Many Blessings,
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, July 1, 2005 7:49 PM CDT

Hello. We just have a few mintuest to update her site. Ashlyn went in for surgery around 2:45 and was done around 3:45. The doctor said it went great and he got all the tumor that he could see! He said that she would have to be monitored with scans for a while, but overall she is doing good.

She was moved into her room around 6 or so. She wasn't very happy. They finally gave her some meds to calm her down. She has the chest tube in, an epidural and a tube in her nose. She is pretty cranky. We are just happy that Dr. Schmeling removed the tumor - and she still has all her ribs. He said it just pulled out.

He said that he would be really suprised if she doesn't develope horners syndrome. But it is a small price to pay for her life.

I will try and update again soon. Thanks for all your prayers today!

Becky, Jimmy and family

Thursday, June 30, 2005 10:08 AM CDT

I thought I would update one more time from home before we head to Minneapolis tonight.

I took Ashlyn in to the doc yesterday. We go back today. Her ear was HUGE and RED! They gave her two shots of rocephin. It really helped. It is still swollen but not as bad. They said it looked like an infection. They couldn't find a place where something would have bitten her... who knows..... as long as she can have surgery!

We are finishing up on our crap we have to doaround the house. Cleaning, packing, laundry... blah blah blah!

Well, I better go. I'll update as much as I can tomorrow. Surgery is scheduled for 12:45 PM. If I can, I'll make updates during the surgery!

Wish us luck!
Becky, Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn



Some FUN FACTS about Ashlyn

Ashlyn is 671 days old
Her birthstone is Peridot or Jade
Her birth sign is Virgo
Her flower is Gladiolas or Poppy
She was born in the Chinese year of the Goat
She will start kindergarten in 2006
She will be old enough to drive in 2017 (in South Dakota)
She will graduate in 2022 from High School

Wednesday, June 29, 2005 11:57 AM CDT

Some FUN FACTS about Ashlyn

Ashlyn is 670 days old
Her birthstone is Peridot or Jade
Her birth sign is Virgo
Her flower is Gladiolas or Poppy
She was born in the Chinese year of the Goat
She will start kindergarten in 2006
She will be old enough to drive in 2017 (in South Dakota)
She will graduate in 2022 from High School


**I have to take Ashlyn to the doctor today. She must have been bitten by something on her ear and forehead. Her ear is at least 3 times the size of her other one. Not sure what is up with that!

Tuesday, June 28, 2005 11:35 PM CDT

Today was a good day. The kids and I went to Woonsocket and had lunch with my grandparents. We headed over to their new swimming pool and the kids had so much fun! Ashlyn didn't want to share the swan slide, but they had a lot of fun. We're going to go again when Kayla gets home.

We thought we had a way to get her home earlier. Matt had said something about going and getting her, but I guess not. I know she is so ready to go home. I think Jimmy and I will get her around the 9th or so.

Every one is anxious for Friday to get here. This week is going by fast.

I am going to go, I'll update again soon.

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, June 26, 2005 11:22 PM CDT

I know darn well that I updated this journal already today. I noticed the entry is still dated the 23rd. Wonder what that is about???

Ashlyn and Austin spent the day in the pool. It was HOT today. It was really muggy, I thought for sure we were in for a storm. Amazingly enough, we didn't get one.

Yesterday we took the kids to Arts in the Park. It was a beautiful morning! It actually wasn't HOT out. It was just nice. And I was suprised the park wasn't full of misquitos. They are so bad around here. The kids had pizza and ice cream and a blooming onion. Austin found some ORANGE items. He loves the color orange. Ashlyn found a pretty little bracelet. Of course, I can't find it today.

Tomorrow we go to Sioux Falls for Austin. He has a doctors appointment. It will be a quick trip. I am not sure if mom will go with or not.

Tuesday Austin, Ashlyn and I are headed to Woonsocket to have lunch with my grandma Evers. We haven't seen her in a while and she always has yummy food to eat! We'll have to head back early, Ashlyn has her H&P with Dr. Heather in the late afternoon.

Someone in the guestbook wanted to know if I have an address for where Ashlyn will be. I won't know the room number until Friday, and I can update the site with that info. We will be at:

Children's Hospital - Minneapolis
2525 Chicago Ave. South
Minneapolis, MN 55404

Kayla is home sick and ready to come home. I hate that she can't get here. Kristie can't meet us until a later date and there is NO way I can drive there by myself. I don't even know when to do it. I know she is fine at Kristie's house and that she is having fun, she just gets sad when she is really tired. It was awsome of Kristie to take her! I just miss her so much!

Well, I better go. Try and sign the guestbook if you have time. Please don't sign the guestbook unless you have something positive to say.

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, June 26, 2005 9:23 PM CDT

Hello everyone. We don't have a whole lot to update on today. It was HOT out today. Ashlyn spent the afternoon in the pool. She loves to jump off the ladder to you. And she thinks that she needs to swim by putting her face under water. She's just like the other two - a little fish! (One of the few things they get from me!)

Tomorrow we head to Sioux Falls to take Austin to the doctor. I think mom and Ashlyn are going to go with us. The doctor's appointment won't take long, but it gives them something to do!

Tuesday Austin, Ashlyn and I are going to go to my grandma's for lunch. We are going to go earlier in the morning and stay for lunch. Ashlyn has a doctor's appointment at 3:00, so we'll have to be back by then. We haven't seen grandma in a while and she always has good lunches!

We are patiently awaiting for Friday. I think we are all nervous and excited. I hope it all goes well for her and that she has a good recovery!

Kayla is still pretty home sick. I just don't know when I would be able to get her. I would like to go get her, but Jimmy can't take any more time off work and I am not driving 9 hours by myself!

I better go. Ashlyn is ready for bed after a long afternoon outside.

Many Blessings and sign the guestbook ~ It's good to hear from people!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, June 23, 2005 11:18 AM CDT

Hi everyone. There still isn't much to update. We got the pool worked out, so bring on the 90 degree weather!

Ashlyn loved walking around the pool while it was filling. She had on her dress and was soaked. She managed to get 3 bug bites before we came in last night and she was so mad to come in. She loves to be outside!

Kayla called again last night. She is feeling sad. Kristie says she is fine until bed time or when she is just sitting around. Kayla said she is having fun, but she misses us. I just need to keep in mind she will be just fine.

Austin goes to see Dr. Heather tomorrow for his 4 year check up! I can't beleive he is getting so old! He is doing pretty good though. He really misses Ka. He went and played with Jadyn yesterday. He said it was fun, but too bad she wasn't a boy! He has been hanging out with his cousin Travis lately. Usually he plays with the neighbor boy, Dillon, but they went to Kansas City for the week - so he is just lonely. He is looking forward to a week with just grandma. They plan to go golfing every morning, then swimming in the afternoon and bike riding at night. They will have fun!

The rodeo parade is just 3 weeks away. As far as I know, the cancer walk committee only has one child for the survivor float. Ashlyn will be riding on a jeep. Hopefully she will sit there the whole time. I will be sure to bring her favorite music. Of course, her song - Ashlyn Renee. And her new favorite.... So Lonely. She loves the chipmunks singing at the start of the song. She is so funny when she sings it so loud. It is realy cute.

Our campsite is coming along. We are working out the details to Matt's daktronics board. He is going to bring two of them. A big one for the committee to use and a smaller one to decorate our site. The co-chairs will get to choose the best campsite! Ashlyn probably won't have a lot to say about it!

The surgery is just over a week away. I am kind of nervous. It will be hard to have Jimmy miss all that time at work. I have been doing some checking at Minneapolis Children's and it is so far from home and so different. I am sure it will be fine.

I better get lunch done. My neice Melissa called and wants to come over and I said after lunch, so I better get a move on.

We'll update again soon!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, June 21, 2005 11:12 PM CDT

Hi everyone. There really isn't a whole lot to update.

First I am going to say that the Cancer Walk committee is looking for cancer survivors 18 years and younger to walk in the parade. So, if you are someone or know someone in our area, please let me know. So far, we only have Kohlman!

It was SO HOT yesterday! We put up our 16'X 42" pool up on Sunday. Just to have to take it down yesterday. It has a rubber air tube along the top and there is a slow leak in it. We woke up Monday morning to see the water flowing out of it because the tube was flat. Very depressing. Now we don't have one!

Kayla left for Colorado on Sunday. We were going to get her on the 17th of July, but the parade is the 16th. She'll be walking with Xtreme Cheerleading, so we have to get her sooner. We just don't know when we'll be back from Minneapolis. She said she is having fun. About bedtime she gets a little sad, but she is okay.

I'll update again soon. I won't be adding any pictures until after her surgery. My brother took my camera to Mexico with him. Lucky him!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, June 18, 2005 11:27 PM CDT

What a long and fun day! The day didn't start out on the best note, but it ended fun!

We got into Sioux Falls last night and decided we didn't want to drive another hour just to turn around and come back in the morning. We talked Renee into keeping Kayla and Austin and just meeting us at Wild Water West. We stayed at my brothers girlfriends house. They have a rowdy kitty named Gus. Ashlyn tourmented the heck out of this poor kitty. I guess he decided to get even. I woke up around 5:30 thinking Ashlyn had a dirty diaper. I changed her, she wasn't hardley even wet and I could still smell something. I turned on a light to find the cat had pooped on the bedspread we were using! After waking my mom up and Ashlyn we got the blanket off the bed. The cat then jumped up and peed on the sheets. He didn't like us much. So, my mom, Jimmy, Ashlyn and myself started our day at 5:30 this morning. I got a little nap in and Ashlyn slept for a while at the water park.

We had a fun day. It was cloudy and really windy when we first got there. But the sun came out and it hit about 85 today. I got beat up on the double tube slides. One time I went with my brother and hit my face on something and cut the heck out of my lip. Then I went with Renee and she kicked me in the head. The kids had a blast! I put some pictuers in the album.

We are really excited with what Dr. Schmelling had to say about Ashlyn. We were only in one part of Minneapolis and for only a little bit, but it was WAY TO BIG for me! I will never again think Sioux Falls is big! We will be leaving June 30th for the cities again for her surgery, which is scheduled for 12:45 on the 1st. We wanted her to be heatlhy for the cancer walk on the 29th and the rodeo parade the weekend before. Hopefully he'll be able to remove the entire tumor. We're just glad that she'll be safe. We may be in the hospital for a while, but 10 days might just be worth it. Too bad Jimmy will miss all that work........:(

Well, I am so tired. I need to get to bed. I'll update again sooN!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, June 17, 2005 9:07 PM CDT

Hi everyone. We just got back to Sioux Falls from our trip to Minneapolis.

I must say we are SO VERY HAPPY with the news we got from the new doc.

He said that it is actually good that the tumor didn't shrink. It will make it MUCH easier to remove the entire thing WITHOUT a chest wall resection. He said going to the Children's Hospital is a great idea. They are very familiar with this kind of surgery. He doesn't think that they will have to remove any of the ribs. He thinks that once he gets in there he'll just to have to pull it and shave parts off. The tumor did spread into the spot in the spine, but he thinks that will just pull out also. He said the only complication may be that she devlopes Horners Syndrome. Her right eye could droop a little, but maybe not.

Her surgery is scheduled for 2 weeks from today. July 1st. He said she'd be there anywhere from 4-10 days. Depending. Last time for her biopsy, she was in PICU for a few days and this time it might not go that way! She will be healthy for the Cancer walk - that is so cool.

I better go. We are going to Wild Water West with the kids tomorrow morning to help celebrate all things!!!

Oh yeah, tomorrow I'll put new pics in the album. Ashlyn met Champ Bailey today at Sioux Valley. Her dad was pretty excited. He plays for the Denver Broncos!

Many Blessings and thanks for the prayers!
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, June 17, 2005 1:13 AM CDT

I am not sure what is going on with Ashlyn's website. Hopefully Chris can do some magic and fix it. It would be JUST OUR LUCK to have problems with this now.......... :(

We head off in about 6 hours. I had to pack and clean and I am now just getting ready for bed. I am nervous and anxious all in one.

I will post as soon as I can. Thanks for all the encouraging words in the guestbook!

Many Blessings~
Jimmy, becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, June 15, 2005 0:02 AM CDT

HAPPY 4th BIRTHDAY TO ASHLYN'S BIG BROTHER AUSTIN!

(((UPDATE 9 AM))))
***WE HEAD TO MINNEAPOLIS ON FRIDAY. NOT SURE FOR WHAT OR HOW LONG! BUT AT LEAST WE GET TO GO!***

Before I get into what I am REALLY ANGRY about, I will let you know some more happy things going on. Austin is having his party tonight at the park. He is so excited! He loves his birthday. We have to do the feet board..... which I will put a picture in the album later and he has to pick out his balloons. He is so excited that is going to be 4. He just wants to play soccer now because he is a big boy - but we'll cross that bridge when we get to it!

I didn't hear from any doctor today. I finally called around 2 to find out if they knew when we would be going to Minneapolis. In the mean time, while I was waiting for the doc to call, I got an interesting letter in the mail. It is actually a copy of a letter from Dr. T to the new doc in Minneapolis. I am going to do a direct quote from it. I am not putting the first paragraph in there, so it starts from when Ashlyn was done with treatment and going for her first MRI: (MAJOR AREAS OF CONCERN ARE IN UPPERCASE LETTERS)

On her post treatment evaluation on April 13, 2005, an MRI of the chest with and without contrast was done. THE TUMOR CONTINUED TO BE PRESENT AS A LARGE SOFT TISSUE MASS IN THE RIGHT PARA SPINA REGION OF THE POSTERIOR MEDIASTINUM. UNFORTUNATELY, THERE WAS NO SIGNIFICANT DECREASE IN THE MASS. NEVERTHELESS, THERE WAS A SUSPICION FOR THE EXTENSION OF THE MASS IN THE INTERVERTEBRAL FORAMINA.

Okay.......what the hell is that all about? We were told ON THAT DAY the tumor significantly shrunk. It was 4 cm and covered 2 ribs. Now they tell me that it isn't that small, it never was and it has always covered 4 ribs. I am really confused and no one wants to fork out any answers. I talked to the nurse again, but we didn't get any real information. And I also called the new hospital and left 2 messages to have them call me back to schedule and appointment as soon as possible.....with no return call. I am getting really sick of this crap. Starting at 8 AM I am on the phone and hopefully going to get some answers.

I am going to go to bed. Hopefully I can sleep tonight. I wouldn't count on it, but I can try! My friend Shanna's little girl Kya is here for a few days. I think today went really good. Her and Kayla played up in her room for a few hours and they played outside all day. Tomorrow early evening we will head to the park and spend a few hours. It will be fun. We have all of his birthday stuff bought and now he wants a FIRE BIKE. He seen it at walmart. It's funny because he just got a new bike a few months ago. Maybe next year.

I want to say that I hope everyone is having a better year than we are. But, I think Ashlyn got her sign from GOD yesterday. She was watching a tv commercial (can't tell you for what) and there were a bunch of dark clouds, but a ray of sunlight was coming through the clouds. Ashlyn looked on the tv and said, "GOD, hey mommy, GOD" . Seriously. It was cool. Maybe that was her sign that things are going to get better..... I can hope, right?

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and ASHLYN

Sunday, June 12, 2005 11:41 PM CDT

Hi everyone. We had a pretty easy-going weekend. We just visited and cooked out. It was nice.

It's suppose to be nice for Austin's birthday! That is what we are hoping anyway!

We took the kids to the park today. Check her photo album, there are some new pics in there!

It has been kind of stressful. WE talked to Dr. T again on Friday. We had to "double" check on the area of the tumor. We were told it was only 2 ribs in April and then we were re-told that it is 4. We are confused and irritated. Hopefully we know really soon when we will be going to Minneapolis. I can't wait to see my friend Angie!

**FYI - The Cancer Walk Committee is still looking for cancer survivors under the age of 18 to walk in the parade. Let me know if you know someone in the Mitchell area!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, June 11, 2005 1:14 AM CDT

****The Cancer Walk committee is looking for cancer survivors ages 18 and UNDER to be apart of the Rodeo Parade this year. Let me know if you are in the Mitchell area and have some one!****

Hi. Today we went to Sioux Falls. Austin had a dentist appointment this morning. The dentist said his teeth look great..... he even has 2 loose ones! Which is so wierd... he won't be 4 until Wednesday. Kayla just started to lose all her teeth. The dentist said he is maturing fast....... heck, look at him! He is about 2 inches shorter than Kayla and weighs one pound less! He's gonna be a monster.

Jimmy got fitted for another brace. He wears it to work and the shoes are just yucky. They look bad and you don't really want to wear them in front of anyone. His shoes that he has on there are starting to fall apart. I guess it's like $80.00 to move the brace to a new shoe. Something we'll be doing soon.

We visited with Jimmy's lawyer today. Not a whole lot to report. Hopefully we'll have some good news soon!

I am so confused with Ashlyn's doctors. If you go back and read the update from April 13th - it says that the remaining tumor covers 2 ribs. Today we were told that it covers 4 ribs and it always has.... NO, we were told only 2 ribs in April. I just don't know what is going on. Don't get me wrong, I really like Dr. T, but I can't wait to get to Minneapolis and start again with all my questions. I just don't know if they don't know or what. I am tired of it. We have gone 5 months with no treatment and all of a sudden we have to move and get things done - is something going on that we don't know about?

I wish I could sleep. I am so tired, but my mind keeps going in circles. I want to know more about a chest wall resection. What it involves. How far apart are a toddlers ribs? I just have lots of questions and I have searched the internet with no anwers....yet.

I am going to try and sleep. Ashlyn will get up early since Jimmy has to work. I hope I can update in a day or so with a happier demenor.

Many Blessings~
becky, jimmy, kayla, austin and PRINCESS ASHLYN

Thursday, June 9, 2005 4:13 PM CDT

Hi everyone.

We don't really have much to update. Dr. T's office called today and said that they have added a pediatric neurosurgeon to the list of doctors during surgery. Not sure what surgery or even when this will happen. The new doc that will be taking over is having a tumor confrence with his team on Monday. They will go over all of Ashlyn's things. Now we should know when we go to Minneapolis next week - midweek.

The Daily Republic (local newspaper) called today. They came over and took a little picture of Ashlyn for the paper. They are doing a little article letting the public know that it is about time for the walk and here are the co-chair's for this year. They will do a special feature on the three co-chairs in July. They are coming on Monday to get all the info to write that story.

Kristie and them should be here soon. We have parent meetings for cheerleading tonight and Kayla has open gym night for cheerleading too.

It started to rain again. I am so sick of the rain. The ground is so wet that the rain doesn't even soak in. It's suppose to be rainy all week. Which really sucks. Austin's birthday party is suppose to be at the park. The last 6 years we have had every single birthday party outside and not one has been rained out! Just the luck we have had for the last year.

We'll update again soon.
Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, June 8, 2005 11:14 PM CDT

Hi everyone. It was a beautiful day out today. Not too hot and not cold. It was PERFECT!

We don't have any new information really. Dr. T had called yesterday. They really want us to go to Minneapolis Childrens. Dr. Bailey has personal ties there and they refer 95% of their patients there when they need to. We are comfortable with that. We don't know for sure when we go. They are having another phone confrence on Friday - so some time next week we should know when we will go. I think they are sending all her information and they will go over it and then bring us in. But, I guess I don't know for sure.

We have had so many people sign the guestbook the last few days with such wonderful words. It helps to know that so many people care so much about Ashlyn. It's awsome!

A few weeks ago, we were invited to participate in ALEX'S LEMONADE STAND. A brief history: Alexandra Scott was diagnosed with neuroblastoma (same cancer as Ashlyn has)when she was just 1 year old. When she was 4, she decided that she was going to have a lemonade stand in her front yard and donate all her money to her hospital - to raise money to help find a cure for childhood cancer. That was 5 years ago. News spread of this and her lemonade stands - which are all over the country - and they have raised over 2 million dollars. We are unable to go to the one we were invited to, funny enough, it is in Minneapolis. So, I thought it would be cool to have one here. I recieved my information packet today and have been reading through it. I don't know how much support Mitchell would have, but it is something to concider. I think it's cool. Alex Scott died August 1, 2004, but her lemonade stands are still going on. Actually, the annual weekend is this weekend. But you can have them whenever you want to. Something for the weekend of Ashlyn's birthday???

Tomorrow we start 10 days of visiting. Jimmy's cousin is coming from Colorado. We have a bunch of appointments in Sioux Falls on Friday, so I think we are all going and gonna make a day of it. My friend, Shanna, her daughter is coming to stay with us next Tuesday thru Friday. On Saturday, we are hoping to go to Wild Water West. Austin will be 4 next Wednesday. I can't beleive how time flies.... and to think.....he WAS our sick one......

We had a yuck storm come through last night. We lost power from 11:30 - 1:30. The thunder was so loud, it actually shook the entire house! The kids couldn't play out back today, so I was out front with them most of the day. I just hate that we live near such a busy area. At least the kids are good about not going near the street. Tomorrow is still busy. Kayla has another week of swimming lessons and we have a parent meeting for cheerleading and the girls have open gym too. Oh well, it keeps my mind free of worries.

I feel so worried lately.... since Monday, I guess. I didn't worry this much when they had decided to do chemo and they said she would be just fine. And here we are having to make more decisions. They just stink..... I wanted some better choices!

I better go before I start blubbering..... I guess I started already;)

We'll update soon...........

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and ASHLYN

Monday, June 6, 2005 10:58 PM CDT

I am pretty frustrated. So, this update will probably be really long and there may be some complaining.........

We heard from the doctor today. We have 4 options:

1. Do a biopsy on the tumor **FYI - doctors think this will be a waste of time, so it is ruled out!

2. Go in and remove as much of the tumor as possible. There is NO way to remove it all without doing the chestwall resection. He also said if he would get in there and it looks "angry" or "yucky", he would close her up and send us elsewhere.

3. Go with the chestwall resection. She would lose either 2 or 4 ribs (not exactly sure) and she would have a whole in her chest cavity the size of a grapefruit. But the risks are VERY VERY VERY high. There could be all sorts of damage. The doctor thinks she is too young for a surgery of this magnitude.

4. Get another opinion. Dr. T said this may be something we do first before making a desicion.

We aren't thrilled about anything really. We sit and think about things, okay, we go with #2 - they remove say 95% of the tumor with 5% still there. How long will they do scans? What if after 5 years of no change, they stop scans because it isn't necessary....in another 5 years could it grow? Will she be concidered in remission? How will I ever get more health insurance on her if she still has the tumor?

Okay, say we go with 3 - who knows what all the risks are - but what happens if offer 2 spreads or something?


And then the 4th opinion... we are all for just in case. So we are chosing Rodchester. Okay, not that it is something you want to hear us complain about, but we are literally broke right now. Jimmy just went back to work less than a month ago and now he'll need time off. We are just barley getting all of our bills paid on time, so how are we suppose to save extra money for so many trips to Minnesota. Jimmy doesn't have any vacation benefits and I am not working. It isn't going to stop us, we will still get her there, it's just frustrating that we have had so much CRAP to deal with in the last year. I am just tired of it. And then who knows when they will be able to get us in. I really want her healthy and happy for the cancer walk. We are putting so much into it, I just hate for her to miss it all.......:(

Well, that is all for now. I am going to try and sleep. Jimmy was pretty bummed out with our choices today, he went to bed hours ago. At least it was a BEAUTIFUL day and the kids played outside all day long. It's even suppose to be hotter tomorrow.....another day outside.

We are having company again on Thursday for about 10 days. Jimmy's cousin from Colorado is coming for a visit. Austin's birthday is next Wedensday. He'll be 4. We are having a regular party at the park on the 15th and then we are going to Wild Water West on the 18th (hopefully)!

Many Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky and kids

Sunday, June 5, 2005 9:01 PM CDT

We had such a good day! This morning we left for the 7th Annual Pediatric Cancer Survivors Picinic at Gigglebees in Sioux Falls. In the photo album are some pictures from our day! Ashlyn had fun playing the games and playing in the ball pit.

Then we went to Sioux Valley for the Children's Miracle Network Broadcast. Ashlyn was on tv from about 4-5. She also recieved a medal for being a MIRACLE CHILD. It was a great day, her and Kayla had so much fun playing with the other kids - it was a good day! I know I keep saying that!

I talked to Dr. T and she said we will hear from them tomorrow. I am so ready to get this over wtih.

I better go. I'll post as soon as we hear anything. Be sure to check out the new photos!

Many Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, June 3, 2005 9:32 AM CDT

I didn't check my update from yesterday, but we will hear from the doc on Monday. I talked to Dr. T yesterday and she said that Dr. Bailey was going to see her right away on Monday. From there, they would call us. I just wish they would make up their minds!

The kids and I didn't get to Sioux Falls for the dentist this morning. It was raining and didn't stop until almost nine this morning. I wasn't comfortable taking all three of them by myself on the interstate. I am just so upset! My neice or my daughter stepped on our dvd player for the car. We drive to Sioux Falls all the time, especially for Ashlyn. And that 75 mile drive goes A LOT smoother when Ashlyn can watch Barney. Well, they broke it. She hates sitting there and it helped so much.....now we don't have one. It really bums me out.......;(

Well, there isn't much to update. We won't put the pool up this weekend either. It's suppose to rain. It costs more money to keep the chemicals and stuff balanced with you don't use it and it rains than when you do use it. I am sick of the rain!

I better go. I'll update again soon. Thanks for checking in on Ashlyn.

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, June 2, 2005 10:51 AM CDT

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY MOM!!!!!!

Well....... kind of heard ABOUT the doctor. I guess he won't be in until NEXT Tuesday. I am not too happy about it. I thought we were told he was going to be back THIS Tuesday and now it's just more waiting. And who knows if he is going to talk to Dr. T right away and call us and get us in. I am just SICK AND TIRED of waiting.

**Warning: the rest of my "update" will probably be complaining!**

Sorry if I seem kind of..."bucky" today. My day didn't start out the best. Austin went into one of his "moods" again right away. He got up around 9 and wanted to go play with Dillon right away. But, Dillon wasn't ready to play yet. So he wanted to play with Vincent. I told him he had o wait and it went crazy from there. He doesn't like to wait and he isn't good at waiting. It was so much easier with Jimmy around. I didn't have to handle everything by myself. I think I am just feeling really stressed out. I am sick of feeling this way too.

We are having company again the 13th for a week. Jimmy's cousin from Colorado is coming. I am also watching my friends daughter for a few days. Kya will keep Kayla busy. And as long as Dillon is home, Austin will be just fine. It will make things with all the other kids - MAYBE easier. I don't know....;(

Kayla is in swimming lessons the next few weeks. SHe is doing great because she is so good in the water. But she can't really touch, so that is a problem. She loves swimming. We haven't even thought of putting our pool up yet. It's been rainy and yucky around here. I am sick of that weather too.

We finally got our washer and dryer from Shanna's friend in Sioux Falls. Jimmy's step-brother was here from Colorado and had a truck, so we went over and got it on Sunday. It's nice to not have to go to the laundry mat! I can do what I want when I want.

I am tired of cleaning the house. With the weather being yucky, the kids can't play outside, so they are in here not helping clean up their mess!

Some news on the Cancer Walk. We named our team yesterday. The theme this year is FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS. The team name has to reflect on the theme.....so we will be the LIGHTning Bugs! We are all going to have these necklaces that flicker - kind of like a lightning bug. I thought it was kind of cute.

I am going to Sioux Falls tomorrow ALONE with ALL THREE kids. Austin has a dentist appointment. Ashlyn is kind of having one. They are going to peek at her as much as she will let them. They don't know how she will be given her history with people in white coats. We don't have anything else to do while we are there, so it will be a quick trip.

Sunday Renee, Ashlyn, my mom and I head to Sioux Falls again for the CMN telethon. It will be fun. Something else to do a scrapbook page about! Her Cancer book is getting pretty full. Good thing they hold a lot of pages. I am getting behind in my regular photo alubms though. I usually put the pics I don't use in there and I haven't done that since right after Christmas........and I take a LOT of pictures.

I suppose, this turned into a long update and it's not really updating much. I have a call into Dr. T's office to ask about when we will have our appointment......probably irritate them. I wish I had a job....then I would have something to do now and then.........;)

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, June 1, 2005 10:05 AM CDT

I guess the update didn't really affect us that much. I could access her site all night last night. I guess the new sites are suppose to be really cool.

We got a call from a Sioux Valley's CMN. My sister-in-law, Renee, had asked me if I would like to answer phones during their telethon on Sunday. I had said yes. We have benefitted from what CMN has to offer. It was the least that I could do. A few days later, we got an invitation in the mail for Ashlyn to go to this as well. I wasn't sure what it is about but they had called last night. They wanted me to bring Ashlyn. They said they would do a short interview with us on Keloland between 2-3 on Sunday! Kind of cool!

We are booking right along on luminary sales. Right now we are at 108 luminary sales ($540.00). We raised our goal to $600.00 now. We'll see if we can pass that one too!

Matt is going to be bringing his Daktronics sign to the cancer walk this year. He had originally wanted to use it at our site, but it is very large. He offered it to the committee to use so they can put whatever they want on it! I think Matt will be brining a much smaller one for our site. It will be a lot of fun. I am also on the committee, so I'll be a little bit of everywhere!

I better go. It looks like it actually might be nice out today! No rain.......knock on wood.

Haven't heard fromt he doctor yet......we'll post as soon as we do!

Many blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, May 31, 2005 6:53 PM CDT

Reminder:

The website will be off line from 8 tonight until midnight!

We didn't hear from the doc today. I probably won't be able to stand it and I will call there tomorrow.

Many Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, May 28, 2005 11:43 PM CDT

Hello everyone. The first thing I am going to mention is that on May 31st from 8 PM to midnight, you will not be able to access Ashlyn's website. Caringbridge is getting a makeover and doing significant upgrades! We'll be back online Wednesday morning......maybe we'll have heard fromt he docs by then?? ;)

The kids played outside all day today. Ashlyn's eczema seems to be getting worse. Her stomach looks horrible. She kept complaining "owie" during her bath tonight. I don't know if she was over tired and ready for bed, or what. We'll see what happens with her new creams.

We are in the process of selling luminaries for the Heart and Sole Cancer Walk. If anyone would like to buy one in Honor or in Memory of someone with Cancer, please contact me. They cost $5.00. I wish I had some good pictures that I could post on the site from the walk. Starting this year we are going to do a cancer walk scrapbook. The luminaries are so cool all light up in the dark. Its awsome. So far we have sold $375.00 worth of luminaries. We are hoping to get to $500.00 - at least. So, let me know if you are interested! It is very awsome.

I should go to bed. I have had a horrible sore throat for the last few days and it is getting worse.

Many Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, May 24, 2005 10:27 PM CDT

Hello everyone. There isn't much going on. It has been beautiful outside the last few days. Kayla had another soccer game today. I didn't get to watch much of the game, I was busy chasing Ashlyn around. Kayla got her team photo and her soccer medal. Austin felt bad that he didn't get one, so Kayla let him borrow hers. Such a nice sister!

We haven't heard anything from the docs. We don't know when we'll be called in for her appointment.

I took Ashlyn to the doc today. Her exczema (can't spell) is crazy on her face. Every time she gets a bath it is just worse. We are trying a new cream. Hopefully it will work. She is complaining about the spot on the back of her neck. But overall, she is doing great.

I better go. Ashlyn finally fell asleep and its time to take her upstairs. Hope everyone has a great day.....and everyone is healthy!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, May 20, 2005 6:31 PM CDT

Well, we're back. There is NOTHING to add. The tumor stayed just the same. No bigger, no smaller. Dr. Bailey is going to take the scans and get other opinions. We'll have a meeting in a week or two to decide what happens next.

We had a pretty good time on our mini-vacation. Ashlyn had fun swimming and we went to the zoo today. I updated her photo album, so you can check her out.

I am going to go. I am so tired from the 87 degree weather and walking through the zoo. I'll post again soon!

Many Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn


PS Thank you for all the extra prayers!

Wednesday, May 18, 2005 10:25 PM CDT

This will be our last update until we get home on Friday. Again, we don't have much to update.

Tomorrow is the last day of school! Kayla is so excited. They have their field day. She is so excited to play games all day! We will be heading to Sioux Falls around 2 or so, when my mom is off work. We have to pick some stuff up at Target, so we are going early. Jimmy will join us when he gets off work. Kayla and Austin are ready for the priate ship and waterslides. I am too! :)

Friday morning we have to be at the hospital by 7:00 or so. We haven't decided who is staying with the kids until they wake up. Diana, my brothers girlfriend, gets the job to entertain them for a few hours. She has like 7 nieces, so she should be good to go! After we get the results, we're going to take the kids to the zoo. Ashlyn has never been and I know she will love it. It is suppose to be about 80 degrees with NO rain!

I am kind of nervous about the scans. I have that feeling again that the tumor has shrunk......but last time I was up for a BIG let down, when it wasn't gone. We still won't know what they are going to do until the first part of June. I don't even know what I want them to do. Just get rid of it!

Her hair is coming in so much now! I can't believe how much! About 2 months ago is when you could really notice it. I even got a barette to stay in for a few minutes! I am patiently waiting for pig tail days!

I better go. I am going to add new pictures tonight too! Look for them in a few minutes!

Many Blessings.........and thanks for the prayers!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, May 17, 2005 2:31 PM CDT

Noting new to report......again. We are waiting for Friday to get here.....not that we will know anything! Kayla has a soccer game tonight. My nephew has his 5th grade graduation. We hate to miss it, but Kayla's game is at the same time. She will be missing Thursday's game, so she can't miss tonights. The wind is HORRIBLE today!

Jimmy is gone for work tonight. He'll be back tomorrow sometime. I don't miss those days. Austin still isn't use to having dad gone, so some days are harder than others.

I think we are headed to Sioux Falls on Thursday. We got a great deal on a room at the Ramkota. It has a priate ship and waterslides. The kids will be so excited to go swimming. Friday my brother's girlfriend, Diana, is going to watch Kayla and Austin while we take Ashlyn to the hospital. Kayla is excited and Austin is because Kayla is. They will have fun. After lunch and doctor's appointments, we are going to take the kids to the zoo. It is suppose to be a beautiful day.

We had a cancer walk meeting today. I have to write up a summary of Ashlyn's story. They said 3 shorter paragraphs about her story - diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. That will be easier to write after we determine what will be done about the tumor. Still, 3 paragraphs - that isn't much - but I will make it work. My biggest problem is adding stuff that doesn't need to be added.

I better go. Miss Sandy will be here in a few minutes.

Many blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, May 14, 2005 8:07 PM CDT

***New photos 5.14.05***

Not much new to report. We had a busy few days with soccer camp and an early cheer camp. Kayla got up this morning and had cheer camp. We tried on her shoes from last season and they were too small. Ashlyn adopted them. They are at least 4 or 5 sizes to big, but she has had them on all day long. She is wearing feet jammies now with a size 10 1/2 shoe on over them. She looks so funny, but they can not come off her feet! I'll take a picture later and post it, it's cute.

Her scans are on Friday. We haven't decided what we are doing with the kids yet. I want to take them with, but they will be NO help AT ALL during the doc appointment to get the scan results. So, we don't know yet.

I better go. I am so tired! (that is a whole different LONG story....LOL!)

I'll post again soon!

Many Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, May 11, 2005 11:18 PM CDT

Rain, rain go away, come again some other day.....literally! If you peek at the radar, it is green north, west (except far west is white from snow), east and very very south of us! They are expecting the rain to finally quit tomorrow night around 6:00 tomorrow NIGHT! Yuck. The kids love to play outside and I love them to play outside! LOL!

Ashlyn is doing pretty good. She still gets her wheeze when she is running around. I don't get it. I think I'll call and talk with the doctor tomorrow. All her respitory tests came back negative. I think it just worries me because when she was first dx she would wheeze when she would run around. I know it's nothing, but for the rest of her life, I'll worry about every little thing with her.

Kayla has another game tomorrow. Jimmy worked for a few hours today, nothing major. Looks like Thursday is out for work again. Which really stinks, a lot. Austin goes for his field trip on Friday, he is pretty excited. They also want to go and see Kicking and Screaming. (new Will Ferrel movie about kids soccer) and of course, my mom and I want to see Monster-in-law! So funny!

I better go. I'll post again soon. I haven't changed the photo album yet. I'll wait for a few days and try to get some new ones taken.

Many blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, May 10, 2005 10:49 PM CDT

Hello everyone. I hope everyone is staying WARM these days! It has been so chilly here the last few days. My grandma called and they are in a winter storm warning out in the hills for tonight. That is just crazy! It's suppose to be nice out, what is the deal?

Ashlyn is doing pretty good. She still has a little wheeze that comes around when she is running around. We went to Dre's birthday party and it was pretty cool out. Kayla had a soccer game at 7:15 and by the time it was over it was really cool outside. Noses were running like crazy! Kayla's team didn't win the game tonight, but she was the only one on her team to get a goal! She was so excited!

This week is pretty busy. Jimmy hasn't been able to work because of the weather - not really something we are too happy about. Kayla has another game on Thursday night. Austin is going on a field trip to the pet store and zesto for school on Friday, Kayla has soccer camp on Friday and Cheer camp on Saturday. At least we have things to do.

Since Jimmy was at work all week, I got pretty bored being home with the kids. It's funny how wierd it is having him NOT at home. He was home for so long and it was wierd getting use to that - now we get to go back to normal.... to some extetent.

WE don't know anything else on Ashlyn yet. Her scans are next Friday. They won't really tell us much. We will know if it shrunk at all or not at all or whatever. I am don't really like the idea of a tumor just sitting in there, but I don't know that I like the idea of her going through that surgery. It's confusing. I just wish we knew something!

Well, I better go. Hope everyone has a goodnight.

Happy Birthday Grandma Fuerst! HOpe you have a good one!

Many Blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, May 8, 2005 10:28 AM CDT

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL THE MOMMY'S OUT THERE!

Today Ashlyn is going to have a bunch of her cousin's over while grandma and mommy go golfing! We went yesterday and it was a lot of fun. We finished just in time - a storm blew in about 5 minutes after we finished! Ashlyn spent the day at her cousin's house.

Our family pictures went good. It was pretty hard to get all the kids to smile at the same time. We had to finally just choose because Ashlyn was getting impatient. They are posted in the photo album. They look cute! I love all of us in different colors!

Kayla brought me pink roses today. Austin has something for me, but he isn't here to give it to me yet!

I better go. Jimmy fixed me breakfast and it is about done! Hope everyone has a great day!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, May 7, 2005 1:00 PM CDT

Hello everyone. Ashlyn is feeling a little better. I am suprised that there wasn't a whole lot on her x-ray because she is still wheezing! Her cough has gotten a lot better.

We had family picutres today. I am going to try and put them in the photo album if it will let me! I was pretty happy with them. It's hard to get three kids to smile at the same time.

The kids get to go to to their cousin's house today while mom and dad go golfing! I am so excited!

I better go. Check the photo album for the pictures, I don't know if they will work!

Many blessings~
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, May 4, 2005 8:39 AM CDT

Hello! I thought I would update - not that there is much to update!

Kayla soccer game was great! Her team one 4-3! She had 2 goals and a GREAT assist! She was so excited - I don't know if she was as excited as her dad! She had a great time and they did so good! Not bad for a bunch of 5 year olds! I am glad that my mom bought Austin some shin guards. It made him feel better - he was so upset yesterday that he doesn't get to play soccer yet. He kept telling me that he was bigger now and he should get to play. It was kind of sad, but he played with another little brother at the game.

Ashlyn's cold has gotten a little worse. She isn't running any fevers but she has a little wheeze. Yesterday at the game she was walking across the field and started to wheeze and wanted to be held. She eats normal and overall seems to be fine, but she has a yucky cough - along with Austin. He is feeling okay except the cough, which only appears for him at night! Ashlyn had a hard time taking a nap yesterday because of that darn cough. Hopefully it will all pass soon!

It's suppose to be a little nicer today. I think I heard by Friday in the upper 70's - which is wierd since we had snow flakes on Sunday! Maybe we'll get to go golfing this weekend!

Jimmy was really tired again when he came home last night! His limp is a little worse at the end of the work day, but he says he's okay. He went to bed really early again last night. I am not use to being home alone during the day with 3 kids. Austin had a bad day yesterday. I think he was testing his boundaries with having just me around. He was just naughty yesterday. I can't even leave the livingroom to make lunch without walking out of the kitchen every 3 mintues. Ashlyn makes a dash for the stairs. (we have a brick fireplace at the bottom of our stairs, major owie if she would fall). And she goes back 30 times a day. Austin was fine until Kayla came home from school. He was put in about 10 time outs yesterday. And of course, I have to help him stay in the time out since he won't just do it himself - only for his dad. I'll get use to it again and it will be nice when the weather is finally nice out. Until then, I'll adjust!

Well, that is all that is going on around here. I put a new picture in the photo album. It's of kayla at her soccer game.

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, May 3, 2005 9:57 AM CDT

Yesterday was Jimmy's first day back at work. He said it went pretty good. His leg got really sore and he had some pain along the side, but it was okay. It has been a long time for him! He went upstairs about 7 last night to shower and I didn't see him until he got up this morning. As long as he doesn't over-do it!

Kayla has her first soccer game today! She is so excited. She is also selling raffle tickets for cheerleading! The money will go to the cheerleader to use for whatever they need for next season. We are hoping to sell enough to help pay her tuition for next season. Talk about GREAT prizes! And they are giving out a really cool prize to the cheerleader that sells the most tickets! If you are intersted in buying one, please let me know! Like I said, the raffle prizes are really good ones!

Hopefully it will finally get nice out. As I had said in the journal before, we had snow flakes this week. By Friday, we should be back in upper 70's! I am ready for the warm weather again!

Austin is adjusting well to dad being gone. He hasn't said a whole lot - which suprises me. They are really close and Jimmy has been home for so long! At least he isn't going WILD on me! He has been good today, so far, on playing with Ashlyn. He'll be good until Kayla comes home!

Well, that is all that is going on around here! I'll update again soon!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, May 1, 2005 1:00 PM CDT

**New pics from this weekend!**

Hello everyone. Before I get into an update on Ashlyn, I am asking a favor from other caringbridge families. Our computer crashed a few days ago (just to add irritation to my on-going headache) and I lost ALL names that I visit everyday. I had them all saved to our FAVORITES and they are all gone, and I don't remember where everyone is from. Here is a list of first names of the kids I check: Emily, Lily, Aidan, Lucas, Sean, Trey, Joey, Emily, Isabelle, Isabella, Michelle, Kohl, Brodie, Jason, Jack, Weston, Jared, and Lily. Please add your website address to our guestbook......and if your names isn't on the list, add it to our guestbook so we can sign and visit you!

GUESS WHAT???????????? IT IS SNOWING HERE TODAY. IT'S JUST LIGHT LITTLE FLAKES......BUT STILL.....IT IS SNOWING ON MAY 1ST........WHAT IS THAT ALL ABOUT!

Okay, for an update. Ashlyn got to go swimming yesterday! She had so much fun! We went out to the Days Inn here in town and took her swimming. She loved it! They had put in a little slide and a big waterslide, so all of us had fun! She managed to get a cold, but at least there are no wheezes. Just a runny nose!

Kayla finally talked me into letting her cut her hair cut. I have always tried to keep her hair longer, but it did look like it REALLY needed a cut, so I let her have her way. We are in the proccess of trying to grow out her bangs before cheerleading next year, so hopefully they will grow fast!

It has been really cold here lately. Today it is only 41! We had some 80 degree days earlier in April, but now it's this yucky weather. I also went golfing for the very first time this last week. And it was so fun! I really had a good time! Jimmy has a membership this year....too bad I don't! LOL!

Hopefully we have the computer fixed now and we won't have any more problems! I'll post pictures of Ashlyn swimming and Kayla's new hair cut in a few hours......I'll let you know!

Many Blessings and Thanks!
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, April 28, 2005 7:21 PM CDT

Well, we had to head to Sioux Falls AGAIN today. We had to take Ashlyn to see Dr. Bailey so he could check the site where he removed her line. When we checked in, they told us that Dr. T had scheduled an appointment for today. We were suprised!

We were REALLY suprised to hear that they want to change their minds AGAIN. Dr. Bailey told us that the tumor is going to have to come out. He said that he was taking all her scans and records to this huge seminar and was going to get the opinion from the best doctors. He said that from what he has seen from her scans and her biopsy that she would have to have a chest wall resection. But, he said that maybe it wouldn't have to go that far. If we have to remove it and they have to do the chest wall resection, Sioux Valley wouldn't do the surgery, he would send us to a Children's Hospital. BUT we don't know yet. Dr. T re-scheduled her next MRI for May 20th. (that is a few days before Dr. Bailey goes to the semiar) If the tumor has shrunk, Dr. T said she is going to urge us to just wait and see. BUT, we won't know anything until the end of May or the first part of June. All we know is Dr. Bailey said it should come out.

So......here we are... WAIT AND SEE..........WAIT AND SEE....!!!

Well, I think that I will leave you with that! I just wish this would be settled and overwith!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, April 27, 2005 1:09 PM CDT

There really isn't much going on around here these days. Ashlyn is doing pretty good. SHe awaits for warm days again so she can play outside! It's been rainy and chilly around here the last few days.

Kayla is feeling better. She will go back to school tomorrow. She has a few very small "strawberry" patches on her face and her lips look horrible. She hasn't run a fever since Monday morning and she is finally moving around. She had to go with us to Sioux Falls yesterday. She felt better at least. She is kind of talking funny since she can't really move her lips. But she isn't contagious anymore!

Jimmy was released to go back to work on Monday! YEAH! I am almost as excited as he is! After 13 months and 2 days, we look forward to a full paycheck!

I better run. Ashlyn just woke up from her nap and she is ready to eat. Talk to you all again sooN!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, April 25, 2005 2:44 PM CDT

Hello. Just thought I would update. Ashlyn is fine. She played outside all day yesterday! She was so tired last night. She rode with Austin on the jeep and then drove herself on the motorcycle. She was so mad when she had to come in. It isn't as nice today and I thought I even heard some snow for tomorrow! Yuck!

I took Kayla and Austin to Nickelodeon Live yesterday. It was fun! The kids had a great time. It was kind of fun. They had two shows at the Corn Palace. During the second one, my nephew Travis, was chosen as a team captain. He ended up getting a pie in the face. I think he really wanted to be slimed, but he had fun. It was really funny to watch! Austin was pretty bummed that he didn't get to go up on stage with Travis.

Kayla started running a low fever and complaining of a sore throat on Friday night. She had some blisters in her mouth on Saturday, so we just left it since strep doesn't typically look like that. But today she had some red patches in her mouth, so I took her in. She has scarlet fever! I have heard of it, but I have never known anyone to have it. She has a rash all over her body and the skin on her fingers is peeling and her tounge looks like a strawberry! She feels a little better, but not the best yet. Hopefully she'll be able to go back to school on Wednesday!

Tomorrow Jimmy goes to the doctor. We are looking for the okay to work! He hates to be home and we really need the money! So, we are sure he'll go back on Wednesday!

Ashlyn goes to see Dr. Bailey on Thursday to check her site. It looks really good. She has taken a few baths and already her skin is drying out. Her eczema (can't spell) is coming back already. She has a big patch ion her cheek. Her skin is so sensitive!

Well, I better go. Kayla wants another popcycle. Hopefully Ashlyn will go down for a nap!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn


*****Say an extra prayer for Tim and Larry. Tim is my uncle. He is battling AML and I hear he is doing so much better these last few days, but an extra prayer won't hurt! And Larry is a friend of my brothers. He learned of a relapse last week and really needs the extra prayers!

Thursday, April 21, 2005 3:10 PM CDT

Hi everyone. There isn't really much going on around here. It had been nice the last few days, but today has been a rainy day. So, the kids haven't been able to play outside, so they are feeling pretty caged in just sitting in the house.

Kayla had her first soccer practice on Tuesday night. She has another one today - if they don't cancel it because of the rain. She starts her games the 3rd of May. She also lost ANOTHER tooth. She lost one on Sunday and then yesterday. I took her to see Aunt 'Ne'Ne and she was just looking and "accidentally" pulled it out! She has now lost 6 of them! I can't beleive how old she is!

Austin is doing good. He had a good time when my cousin visited last week. Nick is my first cousin and he is 3. Him and Austin had a lot of fun! Nick called the other day to see if he could come over, they don't understand that Nick lives about 5 hours from us.

Ashlyn is doing good. She had her line out on Monday and she had a real bath! She was so excited. Her skin is irritated from the tape and stuf, but before long, she'll be fine again!

I thought I would update. I'll post new pictures soon.

Please say an extra prayer for Jack's family. Jack is a 5 year old boy who lost his battle with neuroblastoma today.


Many Blessings~

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, April 18, 2005 3:56 PM CDT

Today marks a BIG day! Ashlyn had her line removed! They bumped her up and got her in much sooner than we thought! She looked for the line, but didn't have a lot of concern about it. She still has the tegederm covering it. Which, I am not excited about. It irritates her skin something fierce!

The disppointment hasn't wore off yet. I am still pretty bitter about it not being gone. But there are a lot of encouraging emails and posts that I have recieved - which helps a great deal. But still, it just seems that since she put in her time on chemo and stuff, that she should have been rewarded by being declared in remission or N.E.D! Something. I hate the sit and wait crap!

Well, I better go. We had to get home right away today. Jimmy seems to think that he needed to go golfing today. So irritating......it must be my mood. Ashlyn is feeling well. She didn't eat much for lunch, but she is drinking just fine.

I'll post again soon! Kayla has gymnstics in a few minutes. Tomorrow starts the soccer season!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, April 13, 2005 11:54 PM CDT

Added update 04.14.05:

The doc called this afternoon. She said that she talked with three docs that deal primarily with neuroblastoma. 2 of the three said that it would be best to do the scans every two months for a while. The other said to remove the tumor but Dr. T said that the surgery is too risky. They would have to remove part of her chest cavity, remove a few ribs, she could have trouble with her spine and lungs. So, in June we will do more scans to see how it is going. They are pretty sure that it won't contiue to grow. So that gives some happier news. too bad I still feel like I do!


Hello again. I know that I updated already, but I don't know if I left things out or what. It's been a LONG day.

********New photos in the album**************

Ashlyn's scans didn't come back as we had hoped. I just set myself up for disapointment by thinking this would be done and over with today. I should have done what I did in the begining - think the worst, so then other news isn't so bad. But I didn't, I kept thinking that April 13th would be her "anniversary" date.

Ashlyn's tumor has shrunk significantly. It was the size of a large orange, and is now only 4 cm long. It covered 4 or 5 ribs and now only covers 2. It is still in a really bad location. We will know tomorrow late afternoon what is next. We do know there are three options:

1. remove the remaining tumor. This is a MAJOR surgery and would be very difficult. They would have to remove part of her chest cavity and would be dangerous. I don't think they will use this unless absolutely necesary!
2. just wait and see if it shrinks off by itself. She would be monitored with scans every 2 months. *This is not ideal to me. I don't like the idea of letting a tumor just sit in my baby!
and 3. biopsy what is left and determine if it is dead or if she would need more chemo..... Dr. T liked this best.

We'll know tomorrow, so I'll be sure to post it. She has to have her line removed on Monday. We are to be there at 8:30 and then surgery is scheduled for 10:30. Another long day for her to not eat or drink anything.

Today was a long day. We were there about 8:30 AM and her MRI was scheduled for 10:30 and we finally got her in at 11:30. It took much longer than expected and she was so crabby when she woke up! She also had to have an echogram done on her heart today. She had one done the day after dx, so they needed to make sure the chemo didn't do something to it. That took a while since she wouldn't calm down from the MRI. We got out of the hospital after 2 and her appointment was at 2. Dr. T hadn't read the results yet and took a while and finally came in with the news. In the meantime, her line got another big bubble in it and we are told to do nothing with it, watch it close and hope it doesn't pop. Great! Just what I wanted added. Austin had to go with us all day and he did great until 3:00 and then he was ready to go. Ashlyn had enough too, finally we left for home after 5:00.

Some other news we recieved this week was that Ashlyn has been chosen as an Honoray Co-chair for the Heart and Sole Cancer Walk/run. We are really excited about this. It is a HUGE honor for her. Her story will be told at the Cancer walk and she will ride in the Rodeo parade the week before. The cancer walk has always been important to my mom and I. There are so many in my family alone that have unfairly been touched by cancer. This year takes on a whole new meaning for me. Even Jimmy wants to get more involved in it. I am pretty excited. It's a lot of work, but so worth it.

Well, I am tired and when you have been crying, even a little, your eyes get more tired. Thank you all for checking in on Ashlyn and thanks for the prayers. We appreciate it so much.....and the encouraging words in the guestbook make it much better!

Many Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, April 13, 2005 6:37 PM CDT

Hi everyone. I am sure everyone is patiently waiting for results. We don't have ALL the information yet, but we have some.

Ashlyn's tumor isn't gone. It has shrunk significantly, but it is still there. We are waiting to hear from Dr. T tomorrow on what happens next. There are a few options on what happens next. She could go through a MAJOR surgery to remove the remaining tumor. Or they could just monitor her with CT scans every 2 months and wait. Or they will biopsy again. So far we don't know if she'll go through chemo again or what. I am just so upset! I shouldn't have set my aim so high! Oh well.

Today didn't go that smoothly. We got there at 8:30 AM and her MRI wasn't until 11:30. It took longer than expected and she was so mad when she got up. They also did an echo gram today to check her heart. We don't have the results from that yet. When they went to flush her line, it got another HUGE bubble in it. We were told to do nothing with it. And they can't get her in until Monday at 10:30 to remove the line! Another long day of her not eating and drinking and being cranky! We are just to be careful with the line.

Well, I will post again as soon as we know what happens next. Thanks for all your additional prayers the last few days......keep 'em coming!

Blessings
Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, April 12, 2005 3:23 PM CDT

Hi everyone. I just have a quick note to pass along. It's kind of exciting for Ashlyn!

We were told today that Ashlyn was chosen as a Honorary Co-chair person for the Heart and Sole Cancer Walk this summer! We will get up in front of everyone and give her story and she will be in the Rodeo Parade the week before the Walk. We are pretty excited about it!

Tomorrow is the BIG day! I am nervous! It's going to be fine though, I just know it.

I thought I would share that information. I'll be sure to post right away tomorrow when we get home. I'll be adding photos to the site also!

Many Blessings!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, April 11, 2005 5:57 PM CDT

HOLY COW! Only 2 days to go! And I am so nervous! I remember people telling me that I would feel this way, but wow. I am just nervous. I am very confident that this tumor is gone. I am very sure the only surgery she'll have left is to remove her line. We don't know when that will be yet. We had to take Austin over to see the pulmonogist today and I talked to Dr. T. She said that Dr. Bailey's nurse would be calling with an appointment time. Then it will be removed. We were hoping for Wednesday, but another few days won't hurt any. We can still draw blood and flush it - even though it is full of blood clots.

I'll post again, probably tomorrow sometime. Other wise, the second we get home on Wednesday!

Thursday, April 7, 2005 6:48 PM CDT

*******NEW PICTURES IN PHOTO ALBUM********


Hi all. It's another beautiful day! Ashlyn played outside on the trampoline today and then took a nap. We also went golfing today. She didn't like riding in the cart at first, but she had fun. She walked a lot of the course! It was cute. I posted some pictures of her at the course today. Austin is SO good! He hits the ball far and he even knows which club is which and when to use it. I can't even do that!

There isn't much going on for this weekend. Next week starts another crazy week of running all over the place! Yeah.....at least we have her MRI. And we'll know for sure what is going on. I am feeling pretty sure that it is all gone! Keep your fingers crossed.

I better run. It's time for our late supper and then baths and then a walk before bed! They will all go to sleep so early! Yeah!

Many Blessings~

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, April 5, 2005 1:05 PM CDT

We had to take a suprise trip to Sioux Falls today. Last night after Ashlyn got out of the bath, Jimmy went to change her line. There was a HUGE bubble in the cord. I called DR. T and she said she wanted to see her today. We got there around 10:00. Her little cord is full of blood clots. It still will flush and draw blood, so the Dr. who put it in said that we would try to get another week out of it. She has her MRI scheduled for next Wednesday. They said that it would have to be removed right away after that. They had told me not to flush the line with the huge bubble in it, but I was on the phone with Dr. T and Jimmy flushed it. They said they didn't know what it was, so watch her for illness. So far so good.

Today isn't NEARLY as nice as it was yesterday. It was about 83 yesterday. We started to put out the trampoline again. We didn't get the net up yet, so the kids are pretty bummed out. I might try and get the rest of it up today. We'll have to see.

Dr. Bailey (the doctor who wants to see her line) will be back on Friday, so we might be making another trip this week. I'll be sure to post and let you know what is going on!

Blessings~

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, April 3, 2005 11:40 PM CDT

First and foremost, please say a prayer for Joey and his family. Joey lost his battle with Neuorblastoma on March 31st. His family is in our thoughts and prayers! Joey is one of the many sites we check daily!

WHAT A WEEKEND! I can't update too much on Ashlyn. I didn't get to see her a lot on Thursday.....or Friday....or Saturday! I seen her all day today and she got to spend the whole day outside! She was SO dirty from playing outside! She loves it. She even wanted to skip her bath just so she could be outside!

Today marks 10 days to her scans! I am nervous and excited all in one! I feel pretty sure that she will have only one more surgery and that will be to remove her line!

Tomorrow is suppose to be in the 80s! Ashlyn will be so happy to be outside. Too bad we'll be back in the 50s on Tuesday......oh well, summer is just around the corner!

I'll post again soon and THANK YOU for checking in on Ashlyn everyday. We love to see new messages in the guestbook. Even a HELLO is good!

Blessings~
Becky, JImmy, Kayla, Austin and ASHLYN

Wednesday, March 30, 2005 10:55 PM CST

Hello. I forgot to update after Jimmy's doctors appointment. He is back in his PTB brace for one month. The doctor said that there is nothing else that he can do. It is just up to what ever his ankle can handle. The doctor also said that there is damage that can't be repaired. He goes back in one month and we will go from there to determine what happens next.

Ashlyn contiues to do well! She got to play outside last night for a while. She had so much fun on her little slide and in her car! She wanted to go out again today, but it wasn't as nice today. Tomorrow night my mom and Jimmy are taking the kids to the circus. (I will be having fun at a bachelorette party!)Ashlyn has never been and she loves animals so much! She'll have a great time!

I probably won't update again until Sunday or Monday. It's a busy weekend, but you all understand!

Many Blessings~

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, March 28, 2005 11:25 PM CST

*****NEW PHOTOS IN ALBUM********

Hi everyone. Just a quick note. Ashlyn is doing very well. She had a good Easter. We had a HUGE dinner with family and had a good time. Our company is leaving in the morning. The kids had a good time with their cousins. There were a few fights, but we wouldn't expect it any other way!

I am going to put in some Easter photos in the album. Her dress was so cute! She was just adorable! She really liked finding eggs. It was cute!

It's almost March 29th. It's an Angel birthday for a friend of mine. My best friend, Teresa, died of Non-hodgkins Lymphoma in July of 2000. The 29th is her birthday - she would be 26! It's amazing that time has gone on with out her. I still think of her everyday and miss her! I think that she is Ashlyn's angel. Dr. T said that someone was watching out for Ashlyn, because we found her cancer so early. I think that it was Teresa! It may be silly, but it makes me feel better thinking that Teresa is watching out for her! Happy Birthday Teresa!

Well, I better go. We have had a busy 10 days and now I have two days to rest. Starting on Thursday it's the hustle and bustle of Angie's wedding! YEAH FOR ANGIE! It will be an exciting weekend!

We hope you all had a great Easter!

Blessings~

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, March 27, 2005 0:12 AM CST

********NEW PHOTOS IN ALBUM!*************

I don't have a lot to update. Ashlyn had a busy day. She dyed Easter Eggs and made a HUGE mess! But, that's all the fun. I added new pictures in the album of her hair coming in! It's cute.

She has the CUTEST Easter dress and I'll post a picture of that tomorrow.

I better get to bed. The Easter bunny hides eggs early! LOL!

HAPPY EASTER TO ALL!


Blessings~

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, March 24, 2005 11:29 PM CST

HI everyone! What a week! As I had said before, we have family from Colorado visiting. It's been busy. The kids seem to have good moments and bad ones, most kids do. They do well for the most part.

Ashlyn is the center of attention - and she loves it! She is doing great! I know, i still need to take a picture of her hair coming in, I just have been crazy busy! Next week will be just as busy! But, it makes time go faster to have Ashlyn's scans done! YEAH!

Well, I thought I would write a quick hello. I am so tired, the days have been long!

I'll post again soon!

Blessings~

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, March 20, 2005 11:19 PM CST

HI all. Not much going on around here. Our company from Colorado got here last night. So far so good, I just wish we had something to do! You can only go to wal-mart so many times! LOL!

Ashlyn is doing good. She is starting in with the night problems again. She is going to bed just fine, but waking up all night and crying again on and off. I don't know what started that again. I know I talk everyday about her hair coming in, I am just so excited! I will take a picture of her and put it on here so everyone can see how much it is coming in! I can't wait for pigtails!

We took the kids swimming tonight. It was kind of relaxing. Ahslyn stayed with Jimmy's parents. She can'g get into the water and there was no way she would have just watched! It was best to keep her away!

I better get to bed. I am so tired. I'll post again soon....heck, maybe I'll have some news! Yeah, right!

Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, March 18, 2005 11:05 PM CST

Hi everyone. There really isn't much going on, but it's always nice to read something new!

Ashlyn is doing pretty good! She is learning new things everyday! And like I ALWAYS say, I love how her hair is growing in! I am so excited!

The links to other children will be removed off Ashlyn's site by Monday. Caringbridge has changed their policy that they can not be listed on there any longer. Apparently they are having some privacy issues. Too bad, it's nice to get extra prayers when you need it!

The next couple of weeks are going to be busy! Jimmy's cousin is coming from Colorado for 10 days. She has three kids and she is bringing three extra. The kids will have fun spending time together, and of course, our favorite thing to do is go to Sioux Falls! Kristie will be leaving the 28th and Jimmy goes to the doctor on the 29th. One of my best friends, Angie, is getting married on the 2nd. She is coming from Colorado back to South Dakota on the 31st. We planned her bachelorette party for that night, rehearsal the next night and then of course, the wedding. The following week Kayla has her new gymnastics class and Born To Learn. (she'll go to her school and meet the kindergarten teachers and hang out). Then Ashlyn's MRI!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The 14th we will be driving across state for Jimmy's brothers graduateion. We will be driving back the 15th for my cousin's wedding reception/dance. The week after that, Kayla starts soccer! WHAT A MONTH!

***NOTE TO MY MOM: I hope you call me before you read the rest of this!***** My brother called and was on his way from Brookings to Sioux Falls. He kept saying the roads were icy and slick. He finally let me go and said he was 5 minutes from his exit. About 30 minutes later he called while I ran to the gas station. I called him back and he had been in an accident. The truck in front of him was pulling a trailer that was swaying all over the road and hit him. It threw him into the ditch. He has a bruised face from the air bag, but he said that his shoulder was bothering him pretty bad. I told him to go the ER, as the police did, but we'll see if he did or not. He's coming home tomorrow, so I'll know. We had a snow storm blow through over night through this afternoon. So I know the roads were slick. (maybe our 4th snow fall this year!)

Well, I better go. I have to clean in the morning! Oh fun! Talk to you all soon!

Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Tuesday, March 15, 2005 10:05 PM CST

Hi, just thought I would give a quick note. There isn't much going on around here. Ashlyn is doing great! I love to see how much her hair grows in everyday! She has little fuzz everywhere now! She has been naughty lately! Climbing on the fireplace and picking on her brother and sister - I guess what goes around comes around, right? Gotta put a stop to that!

Kayla is done with cheerleading for a few months but she is still in gymnastics. This week was Test your skills week. She got moved up to the KG2 class now. She is so excited! And I am excited for her. We have been working on things at home. She wants to learn her back walk over, so we have been practicing on that and some other things at home. She was so excited today!

Well, I better run. We rented a movie so we're gonna watch it. Oh, we took the kids to see ROBOTS yesterday - it was so cute! The kids really liked it!

Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, March 13, 2005 11:51 PM CST

I thought I would write. It's almost midnight and I am not tired and pretty bored!

We didn't do much of anything this weekend. Not a big suprise. The kids decorated for Easter. Next weekend we have family coming from Colorado. They'll be here for 10 days. We haven't seen them since October, so it'll be a fun week! Hopefully it will be nice out so the kids can play outside. I'll be sure to NOT hold my breath!

Jimmy is doing good. He finally got to start putting some weight on his leg. He is suppose to be at 50but he said that it hard to determine how much weight he is putting on it. He goes back to the doctor on the 29th, I think he is hoping for no more crutches. The foot looks pretty good. Much different than the first few surgeries. 5th one the charm? He is just ready to go back to work.....and I can admit, I am ready for him to go back too. He has been home with me for almost a year. (March 30th will be 1 year off work!) He has been a lot of help though. I'll miss having him home all the time, but I'll like his regular income better! LOL!

Well, I better go. I'll post again soon. Just as soon as something interesting happens. I know I have said it before, but I check about 15 sites a day, and it's nice to see an update.

One I check regularly, is Ray-Anne. Unfourtunatly (can't spell) she lost her battle on March 8th. Say an extra prayer for her tonight!

Blessings~
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, March 12, 2005 0:15 AM CST

Hello everyone! Everyone managed to get healthy again. Ashlyn is doing great. She has started a cough today, pretty mild but consistant, we'll be okay as long as she doesn't start to wheeze. Her eczema (can't spell:) is coming in again. She has a patch on her cheek. At least it doesn't bother her.

The kids decided today was the day to decorate for Easter. If anyone knows us, our house is crazy decorated for most holidays. I noticed today that we don't really have much Easter stuff, so we went bargain shopping and found some cute new decorations for the house. Kayla found this big bunny that has a light in him. Ashlyn loves him. She wants to hold him all the time. But the second she moves two steps, he unplugs and the light goes out. Next thing we know, she is hollering for the LIGHT!

There isn't really much planned for this weekend. It's Spring Break so Kayla had the last two days off. It's not nice out again this weekend, so no playing outside. They are anxious for us to put up the trampoline again. It was really a waste to take it down. I was worried about the net and all the snow, but we didn't get more than 6" this year. I suppose we'll get snow. One of my best friends gets married on the 2nd of April, I suppose we'll be prancing around in bridesmaid dresses and snow boots! Maybe I should be quiet!! LOL!

I suppose I should go to bed. I was up late tonight watching Ladder 49. Great movie.....get the tissues! Talk to you all soon!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Thursday, March 10, 2005 2:39 PM CST

I am so sick of SICKNESS! Will it ever end? Kayla came home from school on Tuesday complaining of a stomach ache. She was walking to the kitchen and WAM, she threw up all over. It didn't end there, she was sick all night Tuesday with no fever and stomach pains. The doctor said that she had symptoms of rotovirus. Luckily she didn't get the "poopy" end of it. Next thing you know I finally was sick. I spent all day yesterday in bed sleeping or getting sick. I am happy to report that all is well around here again.......for now!

Ashlyn is doing pretty good. She has managed to stay healthy. I am thinking that the chemo is out of her system.. her hair is growing like crazy! I am so excited! I can't wait to see if her curls come back.

One of our caringbridge friends earned her wings this week. I can't help but to think how lucky we are! I check the sites of about 15 children everyday and its sad to read when they are having a bad time, we have been fortunate!

I'll post again soon!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Monday, March 7, 2005 11:29 PM CST

There really isn't much to update on. Ashlyn has been cranky today. I think her ear started to drain tonight. I am going to check again in the morning and if it still is, better get her into the doc.

Today wasn't even close to as nice today. I don't know what they high was but I am going to guess in the 40's. Big change from yesterday. It's odd that we havnen't gotten a blizzard yet this year either.

I thought I would write a quick hello. I check about 15 websites everyday and it's nice to see an update now and then. Overall, Ashlyn is doing well! She's getting so big and talking so much! My favorite is how she says OPEN, she says "opey". It's cute!

I'll post again soon. Hope everyone is doing great!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Saturday, March 5, 2005 11:56 PM CST

Hello all! Just a quick note before bedtime! First of all, you have to stop in the photo album! The pictures are so cute!

GO! BIG! RED! The Xtreme Cheerleaders headed to Huron today for state! We had a lot of fun decorating the car! Some people gave us funny looks, but at least they know we have team spirit! They all did a GREAT job! Kayla's group got 4th and we look forward to another great season next year!

Ashlyn and Austin spent the day with Grandma and Grandpa Kerr. Austin went golfing and walked nine holes! They played with 5 of their cousins! After we got home, Uncle Matt (my brother) rented a room at the Days Inn. The kids went swimming and watersliding for a few hours. Needless to say, they were exhausted and crashed early!

Tomorrow is suppose to be a beautiful day! I heard around 67 degrees! WOW! Hopefully Ashlyn will be able to go for a walk! We are headed to church. We missed two Sunday's ago because of Influenza and last week because of the dart tourney! Maybe we'll get to walk!

I better get to bed. Hope everyone had a good day! Happy Birthday to Ashlyn's friend Brodie! Stop and tell him Happy Birthday: www.caringbridge.org/wv/brodiemcumar !

Thursday, March 3, 2005 10:45 PM CST

If you haven't read Ashlyn's guestbook entry from Jason, you have to read it! It's so cute!

Ashlyn is doing great. You can really tell she isn't on chemo anymore! She is laughing and playing.....she's doing great! I love that her hair is starting to come back in! It seems there is a little bit more each day!

Kayla has state cheerleading! Lets GO Xtreme! We are hoping that they have worked hard enough (and will remember where to put the poms!) to place! They all have worked so hard this year and they do a great job! The coaches handed out the girls' medals last week! Kayla was so proud!

Jimmy is feeling pretty good. He didn't go to the last cheer competition, so he is really looking forward to it. We asked Austin if he wanted to go, but he is going to stay at Grandma Kerr's house. He is pretty excited. The weather was beautiful today, so he was outside all day long. He is hoping for nice weather again on Saturday!

Just a reminder, if anyone is interested in the STOP CHILDHOOD CANCER magnets, they are available at www.cancerwarriors.org. If you are interested in the NEUROBLASTOMA magnet, just email me!

Thanks for checking in on us! We love to read new guestbook entries! Keep 'em coming!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

PS ~ Tomorrow I will post new pictures of Ashlyn!

Tuesday, March 1, 2005 11:53 PM CST

Hey everyone! We don't have much of an update, but I thought I should write something. I know there are people that check on Ashlyn everyday who look for something.

Ashlyn is doing very well. She is feeling good and her head has little tiny hairs on it! I am so excited to see them! There are even little hairs where there was nothing at all! Of course, it's too early to tell what color she'll come back as or even if it will be straight or curly. She use to have little curls around her ears. And it was a light brown. Right now the little hairs are a very blonde color. I am ready to fix her hair! We were just getting to the pig tail stage when it started to fall out! Pretty soon, right?

Other than that, there isn't much going on. I finally am getting my turn at not feeling the best. I have managed to get a little cold. Enough of one that I slept most of today and I am ready for bed now.

There are some new car magnets out. They are a gold ribbon (gold is the childhood cancer color) and they say STOP CHILDHOOD CANCER. WE have them on our vehicles. There are also NEUROBLASTOMA magnets that just came out. They are gold and purple. I have ordered some and they should be here in a few weeks. I think they are neat, childhood cancer needs some awareness! If you would like to know where to get them, just email me!

I'll post again soon!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, February 27, 2005 11:20 PM CST

Hi everyone. The weekend is just about over....which means February is just about over. I can't beleive how fast time flies!

Austin had the unexplained fever all Friday. I FINALLY got his fever to break late Friday night and we haven't seen it since. I find myself worrying now about silly things. When you are a parent of a child with cancer, you read over and over the symptoms, so now I find myslef inventing "symptoms" on Austin. I always think "Oh, he has dark circles under his eyes, he had an unexplained fever, he complains of pain in his legs" things like that. I know it's silly, but I can't get the idea out of my head lately. Just like I know that I will watch over Ashlyn too closely....just wondering....what if?

I must have more time on my hands lately. We aren't headed to Sioux Falls alot now, I have time to think. My biggest thought is what if they wouldn't have found that little corner of her tumor? What if Dr. Heather hadn't met me in the ER that day? Would we still not know? Would it have spread more? I do a lot of reading on the 'net now. Probably too much. Like I said, I invent things about Austin.

I am sorry to vent this kind of stuff on Ashlyn's web page. It really isn't the place for it. I just don't know where else to do it for now. Ashlyn is feeling pretty good. She will be 18 months old on, well, I guess the 1st, since there is no 29 in February. She is talking so much! She loves to keep up with the rest of the kids!

Kayla has state cheerleading this weekend. Everything is a go! She is pretty excited. Jimmy is too, he hasn't been to a competition yet!

I better go. Thank you for checking on Ashlyn. We love to see even a HELLO in her guestbook. I still have Jimmy's x-rays in the photo album. The first one is from the first doctor who concidered Jimmy's foot healed......yeah right!

I'll post again soon!
Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Friday, February 25, 2005 11:36 PM CST

Hello, hello, hello! Jimmy's appointment went well. He was disappointed that he still isn't able to walk. He did get his cast off and is now in the boot. 2 weeks of that, then he gets to start some weight bearing on it. A few more weeks to go.

Austin started running another fever last night. It was better this morning, so him and Kayla went to the hotel with my mom and went swimming. Ashlyn went with Jimmy and I to the doctor and then to lunch. Ashlyn and I dropped Jimmy off at the hotel and did some shopping. We got some cute spring and summer outfits for the kids.

Ashlyn has a charm Itailian charm bracelet. I found one today that says CANCER SUCKS. I had to get it. A few weeks ago I added 3 new ones to her bracelet. 1)Papa's girl 2) Ashlyn and 3) Lil Sis... they are cute. I did get a care bear one for myself, but not her's yet.

I added Jimmy's x-ray photos to the photo album. I couldn't take a picture side by side, so they are one on top of another. I think you still can get the idea. His first one is dislocated and there are gaps and bad areas. It looks much better now.

Austin's fever started again as we got on the road back to Mitchell about 4:30 or so. By 5:30 it was 102. I had given him some motrin and nothing happened. He was acting funny. He would look at me and ask where his mom was and that he wanted to go home. I had to carry him to the bathroom and hold him up when he had to go. The fever finally broke when I gave him some Advil. We'll see how he does through the night. I am SICK of sick kids!

I'll post again soon. Thanks for checking on Ashlyn! We love to hear from people who sign the guestbook...even if you only say HI!

Jimmy, Becky, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Wednesday, February 23, 2005 2:27 PM CST

Hi everyone. There really isn't much to add today. Ashlyn is still pretty cranky and she is still sleeping often. She never did run any high fevers or get sick.

Kayla isn't back to herself just yet. She is back at school, but she gets so tired so fast! She had cheerleading practice on Monday night. She just didn't feel well enough to jump around. I took her in when practice was about over because they had their award presentation. It was great! All the girls recieved a medal. She did get up and do a backwalk over or two, but she was so tired when we got home. She went to bed last night early and was asleep by 9PM. She woke up this morning nice and easy and took a nap right after school. I suppose a few more days and she'll be okay.

Austin is just fine. Running around and naughty as ever!

Jimmy has another doctor's appointment on Friday. He is hoping to get his cast off. Kayla and Austin are coming with, but they are going to the Ramkota with grandma. My mom is working the state dart tourney and has Friday afternoon off, they are going to go swimming. Ashlyn is going to go with us to the doctor. I am taking my camera. I want to take a picture of the two x-ray's side by side. I'll post them in Ashlyn's photo album when we get back. I know there are a few people anxious to see that.

It started to snow a while ago. We haven't had much of a winter this year. We had some snow in January, but not really anything before that. Of course, all the snow WAS melted, and it's still coming down. I don't remember the last blizzard we had here. Back when I was in high school, we always had at least one big one....but it's been awhile. Oh well, I am looking forward to summer again anyway.

Well, I'll post again soon. Thank you for checking in on us. We like to see who visits, so please say HI in the guestbook!

Becky, Jimmy, Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn

Sunday, February 20, 2005 9:40 PM CST

Hi! The flu still isn't out of our house yet. Kayla is much better than she was, but she still looks horrible! She got a cold on top of it all and just isn't herself just yet.

Ashlyn had been doing very well. She started running a fever again and then she seems to be sleeping SO MUCH! Anyone that knows her knows that she just doesn't sleep. She never has! Usually if we are lucky, she'll sleep for an hour during the day. Yesterday she took a 3 hour nap and then another hour nap about 8. Of course, she was up all night, but slept in to make up for it. Today she took a nap from almost noon to 4 PM. Around 5:30 she was sleeping again. I decided to call the doc and they wanted her to go in and just get checked out.

Of course, the ER was literally PACKED with people. We waited in the waiting room for about 15 minutes, then a couple came in with a sick baby, I requested to be moved because of Ashlyn. They put us in an office. There were people everywhere running around, we finally were seen after an hour and a half of waiting. Which, I understand because there were serious emergencies, but it is still frustrating. The only thing we found out was that she tested positive for Influenza A.

So, we're back to the amantadine and sitting around. I suppose the kids will just pass it back and forth.

I better run. Ashlyn is alseep again and Austin is ready for bed and Kayla is sleeping. I'll post again soon!

Friday, February 18, 2005 5:55 PM CST

It just can't get worse with the flu, can it? Ashlyn is doing very well! Just like Austin, she only had one bad day and seems to be doing very well. Kayla is on day 4 with it and isn't improving. The doctor finally had us come in today. Austin and Ashlyn tested positive for Influenza A, while Kayla tested positive for Influenza B. Don't know what the difference is, but Kayla is doing horribly! She has a little over 2 hours to drink, or else we're on our way to the hospital for IV fluids. She looks horrible, but at least she won't get sick anymore. Her troat is really red, so she says she isn't thirsty. I am so excited. To add to the fun, I have had a headache for a while now and it doesn't want to go away either. The one time I get sick would have to be now!

Well, I thought I would update really quick. Kayla is watching her DVD from her cheer competition. We have a future cheerleader in our midst. Ashlyn was watching and got mad when it was shut off. Last night we were practicing our "GO BIG RED", it was so cute.

I'll post again soon! Hopefully I don't get sick!

Thursday, February 17, 2005 11:01 PM CST

I put some new photos in her album. They are copies of her scrapbook pages! (maybe that is more for me!)

Ashlyn is doing okay. She will get a fever and then it will go away or else stay real low. She doesn't really want to eat or drink much, but she is at least moving around....Kayla on the other hand..... She still barely moves out of bed, just to go to the bathroom every few hours. She still loses everything she drinks and she is still running the higher fevers and sleeping all day. I thought for sure by today she would be more mobile, but she just isn't! I don't get it. We'll see how she is tomorrow and go from there.

No one else is sick yet. Jimmy is complaining of headaches, but that is about it. Austin isn't very sympathetic to his sisters not feeling well, he's jumping all over and yelling....brotherly love, right?

Well, I thought I would update again quick. I'll let everyone know how everyone is feeling!

Thursday, February 17, 2005 12:05 AM CST

The darn flu bug just keeps getting worse. Ashlyn was a little oven all night long. About 8 this morning, her fever hit 102! I called Dr. T and she was taken in and tested for Influenza. We got a big fat positive!

She hasn't gotten to the getting sick stage yet, but she doesn't really want to eat or drink anything right now. I suppose it will get worse. Kayla didn't get sick until a few hours after the headache and fever. Let me tell you, I am so excited.

I thought I would update quick. Hope everyone else is managing to stay healthy. I'll post again soon!

Wednesday, February 16, 2005 4:41 PM CST

Hi there. Kayla isn't recovering as quick as Austin did. She still brings up any thing she eats - even her medicine. Her fever broke for a little while today - long enough for her to walk around a little bit, but it came right back. She still doesn't feel good at all.

Jimmy woke up with a headahce today. So far it hasn't gotten beyond that. He has enjoyed laying around all day with Kayla. He'll probably be next!

Ashlyn had a low fever early this morning. It went away after an hour or so and hasn't returned. She has a yucky cough again, the boogery eyes and yucky nose. She was pretty cranky this afternoon and she is on her second nap of the day.

As for Austin and myself, we are feeling pretty good. I went to wal-mart and made copies of some pictures for my sister in law to do some scrapbooking. I love to scrapbook! I would do it all day long! Too bad it isn't something you can make any money on. I'll take some more pictures of Ashlyn's scrapbook and put them in her photo album. I have actually had a few people email me and comment on them. At least I have some things to do to keep my mind free - for a while. My sister in law, Renee, wasn't in to this stuff at all. She went with my mom and I to a scrapbooking retreat last October in Denver. She won't admit it, but she likes it. She has even went and bought some new items to do more pages. I think that because her kids liked their books so much, she enjoys it. I have started two books for each of the kids. Kayla has her regular book and a cheerleading book. Renee's daughter is in cheerleading too, so Renee started a book for her. Austin has a regluar and a "dad and me" book. Ashlyn has her regular and her cancer book. I LOVE TO SCRAPBOOK. I am going to stop writing now, just so I can do some pages in my wedding book!

I'll post again tomorrow! Maybe even add some pages!

Tuesday, February 15, 2005 7:34 PM CST

Hi again. Well, I lied when I said no one else got sick from Austin! Kayla woke up this morning complaining of a headache and had a fever of 101! Yeah. She has been in bed all day and the fever comes and goes. Austin isn't very sympathetic to the headache. He runs into her room and has to yell at her. Poor Angel. She just wants someone to lay with her and no one can because of the other two! I had parent teacher confrences tonight, so I bought her a new book at the book fair! "It's hard to be 5". She likes it because she is 5!

Ashlyn is still doing pretty good. She had a good day of watching Bomby over and over and over and over again. She played with her Care Bear castle and rode on her Care Bear scooter. She really misses bugging Kayla, we're trying very hard to keep her away. It kind of works...for the most part.

I'll post again tomorrow. Hopefully no one else gets sick!

Hope everyone had a good Valentines Day!

Monday, February 14, 2005 10:33 PM CST

Hi again. As some of you may have notice, I added a ticker for the count down until Ashlyn's MRI. As I had said before, I was so sad to hear that we had to wait until April to do the scan. Dr. T's office called today and it was scheduled for April 13th.

Ashlyn has a new smile quilt. There are two links on her site, check it out, it is so cute.

Because we can't get her song on the website, I have decided that "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" will be her song. She recognizes it when she hears it.

Kayla had cheerleading tonight. Ashlyn didn't get to go. They did a great job. We sat on the Artesian-Letcher side (whos team colors are white, blue and orange) wearing red! They just happen to be playing against Woonsocket, who are red. And my grandma came who is from Woonsocket, so we thought we might get into some trouble cheering for the wrong team! But, it was all in fun.

Kayla has state competition in a few weeks. I was being a snail and forgot to reserve our rooms in Huron. I called to night and was very sad to find they have no rooms left at Crossroads. It would have been perfect for us. The competition is right across the street, so we would have been able to bring Ashlyn and just go back to the room when she needed rest. Next year I will book our rooms, WAY in advance!

Ashlyn was in bed when we got home at 9:30 tonight, of course she woke up and now doesn't want to go back to bed. I stayed up too late last night watching a movie, so I am ready to sleep now - wouldn't ya know Ashlyn isn't!

I'll post again in a few days! Hope everyone had a great Valentines Day!

Sunday, February 13, 2005 10:53 PM CST

Hello there. Austin finally got over the flu. Kayla didn't feel the best on Saturday, but it didn't amount to anything. At least none of the rest of us got sick!

There really isn't much going on. Ashlyn had a good day. I think it is so cute her new obsession with Barney. She loves him. She is starting to pick up on some of the dance moves. She does a few songs, but it's so cute! It's hard to believe that she is almost 18 months old. She looks so little with no hair.

I updated her photo album. I took some pictures of her with her scrapbook. She loves to look at the pictures in it. Kayla scrapbooks with me, and I am sure Ashlyn will too.

We got our charms in the mail the other day. Kayla got a BIG SIS one and one with her name. Ashlyn got a PAPA's GIRL, LIL SIS, and one with her name. My GRUMPY bear came along with the CANCER SUCKS charm. We also got our car magnets. They are gold and say STOP CHILDHOOD CANCER. I like them alot!

Well, I better go. I'll post again in a few days!

Friday, February 11, 2005 8:02 PM CST

I am so bummed! When we left Sioux Valley last month, they said they would do an MRI in a month. Okay, so that is like now, right? Well, they re-checked her protocol and the MRI won't happen until April! I wanted to get a good look at this monster! I know that it isn't visible on an x-ray, but that doesn't mean that it is gone. So now I am so sad! They decided to not remove her line. They said we may need it for IV fluids if she gets sick. Especially since Austin has Influenza. They also didn't want to take it out and then see they need it for more chemo (which I am sure won't happen!) And then they won't need an IV for her MRI. So, we have the "line" a little longer, but we're all pretty use to it. Even Ashlyn.

Too make things better, I did get to go shopping at Old Navy today. I was so excited that the store was finally open. I even bought me a cute new purse for my birthday! Happy 26! (not really!) Then Jimmy took Ashlyn and I to lunch at TGIFriday's. One of my fave's! So, that helped out. And then more good news, it only cost 35.00 to fix our van! That NEVER happens!

Austin is still feeling pretty yucky. Amazingly, no one is sick yet! I thought for sure my mom would be, but not yet! Kayla went to a movie with her aunt 'ne'ne, so she is gone. Ashlyn is watching BARNEY. Her NEW favorite thing! She loves this one video! She reminds me so much of Kayla at that age.

Well, I better go. I'll post again soon........

PS ~ Ashlyn has a new SMILE quilt. There will be a link added on the site, but for now it's at the bottom under OTHER LINKS - Ashlyn's SMILE quilt. It's so cute, you should check it out!

PSS~ I added pictures of Ashlyn with her Cancer Scrapbook! They aren't the best, she wanted to look, not hold!

Thursday, February 10, 2005 6:54 PM CST

Wouldn't it just figure? Austin tested postitive for Influenza A today. He is so sick! We are all now on meds for it, but it probably won't keep us healthy. It's just the kind of luck that we have. I already have a headahce and my mom is complaining of a sore throat and Jimmy just says he doesn't feel real good.

And of course, we go to Sioux Falls tomorrow for Ashlyn's doctor's appointment. Maybe we'll get to find out when she will have her MRI. Keep your fingers crossed!

Tomorrow is my birthday. Jimmy and I were hoping to get away for a while. We wanted to head to Fort Randall to play the slots........... but that won't happen with the kids sick. Ashlyn is crabby, but nothing positive yet.

Well, I better go. Austin finally wants some soup - not that he will keep it down! I'll post after her doctor's appointment tomorrow afternoon.

Sunday, February 6, 2005 9:19 PM CST

I guess I should update! I see people are checking for one! LOL!

HOW ABOUT THE NEW SITE???????? I LOVE IT! It is so cute. We are just working on music now!

Ashlyn is FINALLY feeling so much better! It was a long week or two, but we're coming out of it now. She is having normal diapers and doing good.

She spent Friday night with her dad and her brother and her cousin Travis. I went to Sioux Falls with Kayla, my mom, Renee and Melissa. Kayla and Melissa had a cheer competition on Saturday morning.

The girls had a good time Friday night at the hotel. The girls got in about 3 hours of swimming. We also hung out with the coaches and some other girls from the squad. It was fun. Saturday was also a lot of fun. The girls were easy to get up and ate a good breakfast. We got to Brandon about 9:00 and still found great seats. Of course, we had to guard them with our lives when someone had a bathroom break, but they were great seats.

Xtreme Pride did a great job! (Kayla's squad) They were missing four girls, but managed to do great. Xtreme Spirit (Melissa's squad) did a great job! They place 3rd! GO! FIGHT! WIN! Everyone is so excited!

Today was pretty boring. Daddy ventured off to a Super Bowl party while the kids and I did nothing. It was a pretty quiet day. Kayla has her talent show at school tomorrow night. She is pretty excited.

Jimmy is feeling pretty good. I don't think his foot is bothering him as bad as it did last time - VERY GOOD SIGN! He still has some pain, but he's hanging in there!

Dr. T called on Friday and we go and see her again on Friday the 11th. Happy Birthday to me - maybe they'll suprise us and do an MRI then..... I doubt it, but I can wish. I think they are going to schedule one. I'll settle for that!

I'll post again in a few days! Hope everyone is well!

Wednesday, February 2, 2005 10:08 PM CST

Hi. I thought I should post. Ashlyn still isn't feeling the best. I just don't understand what is going on. She is still having the really yucky diapers. But they tested her "poo" twice. Her c-diff and the rotovirus came back neg both times. And it just isn't changing. The diapers are getting even more runny and icky. (sorry if that is too much info!) The wierd thing we dealt with today is her body temperature. One minute her lips are purple and her fingers and toes, and they are like little ice cubes. Then she'll warm up again. And she was SO crabby tonight! I am told that all her counts came back in the normal range. So???????

Jimmy is feeling pretty good. I am going to attempt to get away Friday night. Kayla has a cheer competition in Sioux Falls on Saturday morning. Instead of driving the hour early in the morning, mom, Renee, Melissa, Kayla and I are going to have a girls night at the Ramada Inn. (The cool hotel with the waterslide) SHHHHH! Don't tell Austin! I feel bad that he isn't coming, but he would be awful at an all day cheer comp! And I am so excited for this comp too! Kayla hasn't been able to compete yet, so it will be fun to watch. Melissa's group place 4th in their last one and they have added some stuff and are doing great! So it will be a lot of fun. I am excited. Hopefully Ashlyn will feel good enough to be left with her dad for 24 hours!

Austin has been on a crazy sleep schedule lately! I put him to bed around 8:30 last night and he went to bed around 6:00 AM! TURKEY! He was up and running all night. He tried to sleep all day, but Jimmy only let him sleep until about 10:30 this morning. He was in bed and alseep before 9 tonight! Now if Kayla would go to sleep right away. She got a new princess lamp for her bedroom and she thinks it is there to help her read!

I am doing okay. It's one of those days where I just feel really angry or something. I don't know how to explain it. I am just sick of worrying all the time what Ashlyn's counts are or if she can go with me to the store, or if someone gave one of the other kids a virus of some sort. I guess maybe I am just feeling stressed out or something. I have this weekend to look forward to! Right? And Jimmy's cousin called from Colorado with the dates for the next scrapbooking retreat. I am so excited and I really hope to go! We'll have to see.

Okay, there was an update on everyone! HOpe everyone reading is doing good. I'll let you know what comes of Ashlyn. We talk to Dr. T tomorrow (oncologist). Good night!

Monday, January 31, 2005 9:42 PM CST

Hi. What a long day. I went to Sioux Falls today - not with either one of my patients! (Jimmy or Ashlyn!)

Before I left, Ashlyn had a extremely stinky diaper. I won't go into details, but it was bad. So I told mom to watch her and let me know. I guess she went two more times and then started to refuse to eat and drink.

I made arrangements with Dr. Heather and took her in. It was decided to draw blood (Great job, Lisa!) We also decided that I would be so lucky to scrap a dirty diaper! And then over to the hospital for fluids, again!

The fluids part went pretty good. She slept most of the time. I tried to get her to drink more, but she didn't want to. When we got home, she acted intersted in food and took a few bites, but she managed to get rid of it. I had the great experience of scraping a dirty diaper. By far, the grossest thing I have done as a parent! I don't even know if we got enough. I am trying to get her to eat some more so she'll go more.

We check with Dr. Heather again tomorrow. It (the diaper) looked and smelled a LOT like rotovirus. (Kayla had it as a baby) I guess we'll see.

Now Ashlyn is up for a while. I will be lucky if she is in bed by midnight! Oh well, I got a little nap tonight too!

I'll post again tomorrow after the doctor's appointment!

Friday, January 28, 2005 6:32 PM CST

NEW PICS AS OF 1.29.05

Counts:

HgB - 11.4
Platelets - 126,000
WBC - 2.1
ANC - 483,000


We had such a good day today! All of Ashlyn's counts came up. They said to still keep her away from sick people. She is feeling a lot better.

Jimmy went to the doctor today, too. They took an x-ray of his foot. Then they showed us the x-ray before (the after surgery that the doctor in Mitchell did) and right beside it was the x-ray from the recent surgery. JUST AMAZING! We didn't know any better when we would look at the x-ray from before. We knew there was one significant gap, but the entire foot wasn't straight. When you look at the pictures, it doesn't even look like the same foot. It was so bad!

Now it looks so good! It's still a shock! But it looks so good! It's straight and there are no gaps! So, it's good news. Jimmy is excited to walk on his foot, but he can't yet. In a while. We go back in a while.

I better run. Kayla is having a friend sleep over, and they don't want to play with Austin! I'll post soon!

Tuesday, January 25, 2005 11:12 AM CST

Counts for Today:

HgB - 11.4 (yeah! went up!)
Platelets - 41,000 (yucky! went down!)
WBC - 2 (yeah! went up!)
ANC - 60 (yuck! went down!)

I can't post much right now. We are headed to Sioux Falls this afternoon. I'll post again later!@

Monday, January 24, 2005 0:13 AM CST

Counts as of 1.21.05

HgB -7.3
Platelets - 55,000
WBC - 1.6
ANC - 64

Hi. I thought I should update. Not much is really going on now. Ashlyn is still pretty cranky but the new blood really perked her up a little! She goes in for another draw on Monday, so we'll post her numbers tomorrow. I know that posting them helps you get an idea what is normal. I had just told Crystal (a MA at Dr. Heather's and an old friend) that we were lucky and Ashlyn hadn't had to have a blood transfussion - I guess I jinxed myself! It's not the first time I had done that!

Her fevers are gone, but she still has the cough. She had gotten sick at the hospital on Saturday and then again tonight. She is acting okay though. Her "funny taste" must be gone. She is taking her medicines very well again.

We were suprised to get a different kind of package in the mail yesterday. Songs of Love sent Ashlyn a CD! A song all about her! It's so cute. I am working on getting it on her web site for background music. It's so cute! I know I already said that, but it is!

We got her new pictures back. We had to take her in and have them done with her bald look! We put her in her cheer uniform - they are so cute! I don't have a scanner, so I can't post them. They are really good though! I love them!

Jimmy is feeling better. I think he managed to get through most of the day without too many pain meds. He is cranky because he can't move fast and he has to have me do a lot for him. I think it drives him crazy!

Our week is starting out busy - as usual!
Monday - Ashlyn has draws, Kayla has cheerleading in Mt. Vernon
Tuesday - Sioux Falls
Wednsday - More draws, maybe Sioux Falls - Kayla has cheerleading at the Corn Palace
Thursday - WoW! Nothing planned!!!!!!!!
Friday - Sioux Falls

So excited! At least I keep busy! I better go. Like I had said, we'll post her counts tomorrow again.

Hope everyone is happy and healthy! Wish me luck on getting the song on the site. If I can't figure it out, I'll just post the words - it is really cute!

Friday, January 21, 2005 11:48 PM CST

Third time the charm? I have wrote out this journal entry three times now - Ashlyn managed to close the other two before I was even finished........she is FINALLY asleep - so we should be okay now!

Anway, I am exhuasted! It has been a long few days and I am hoping for tomorrow to slow down a bit! Okay, from the start......Ashlyn hadn't really been herself the last few days. CBC's and Diff's determined that her counts were low, but not too low. We went over to see Dr. T on Wednesday and she said Ashlyn had a ear infection. Just to watch her closely and call if anything changes. That night Ashlyn wouldn't drink as much as she usually does. She also started to run a low fever. The fever got to about 101 around 2 AM on Thursday morning. She woke up Thursday morning with a dry diaper.

I talked to Dr. T and she sent us to the Cancer Center here in Mitchell. Ashlyn was given 2 1/2 hours of IV fluids for dehydration and an IV antibiotic. We were there for about 3 hours Thursday morning. We then went to Dr. Heather's office for a check up. She decided to have a chest x-ray done. I was so excited. I hadn't seen an x-ray since Ashlyn's in October - which, by the way, showed part of her tumor. I am happy to say that the tumor is not visible now. It doesn't mean that it is or isn't there, but I know that I seen it before and I didn't see it yesterday. (Cool) Anyway, the had done more blood tests and decided that Ashlyn needed another 2 1/2 hours of IV fluids and that on Friday morning she would need a blood transfussion. We started our day at the Cancer Center at 10 Am and finished at the hosptial around 6:45. It was a long day of doing all this alone. Usually when we did things like that, Jimmy would come along. But, he isn't much help since he can't really move much.

Of course, just our luck, a Winter Weather Advisory was issued for late Thursday night through Friday afternoon. Freezing rain and high winds. So, mom, Ashlyn and I headed to Sioux Falls around 7:30 Thursday night. We checked in and hoped for an early bedtime, but of course, Ashlyn wouldn't go to sleep. She finally fell asleep around 1 AM, but she was up off and on all night long. To top that off, the alarm didn't go off and we woke up around 7:45 - we had a whole 45 minutes to get us all ready to go.

Before they started her blood transfussion, they took more blood to test it. They did some IV fluids because she was still dehydrated, gave her blood over a 3 hour time frame and then more IV antibiotics. We started our day at the clinic at 8:30 and finished around 3:00 - then just to drive home slowly because the roads were yucky!

So, tonight she is a little more energized. They said to expect that. She finally went to sleep about 11:45 PM. I wanted to update her site before we went to bed! Yeah, can't wait!

I thought it might be appreciated to get into a little more detail about CBC's and Diff's. I am going to post her counts and what is normal.

Ashlyn's Counts
WBC - 1.6 (white blood count) 4.8-12.0 is normal
ANC - 64 (absolute neutrophil count) greater than 1000
is adequate
HgB - 7.3 (hemoglobin) 12-16 is normal
Platelet - 55,000 Normal - 150,000 - 300,000
Adequate - 100,000

Okay, maybe that can give you some idea what we are talking about. I copied this off my "cancer book"!

By the way - we updated the photo album with pictures from today. My mom is so happy that she can finally prove she was hanging out at the hospital instead of babysitting!

Talk to all again soon.....by the way, Jimmy is hanging in there, he is sick of the house!

Wednesday, January 19, 2005 10:22 PM CST

Hi everyone. We headed to Sioux Valley today - by the way, we got the gift card! Anyway, her cough is still yucky and she is still really cranky! She started to run a low fever tonight. So far it hasn't gotten higher than 99, keep your fingers crossed.

Jimmy is feeling pretty good today. He goes to Sioux Falls next week, we'll know more then.

Ashlyn has another blood draw on Friday, Dr. T says her counts will drop some more. Her counts were low on Monday, but nothing real low.

Anyway, Austin is going through every drawer looking for cards for him. He wants cards in colored envelopes. He gets his mind set on something and he doesn't forget. I had a few left over thank-you notes that were yellow and blue - those are working for now. Maybe he'll go to sleep now!

Talk to you all soon!

Tuesday, January 18, 2005 11:40 PM CST

I only have a minute.....Ashlyn's coughing spell could start over again at any time. She is REALLY crabby today and she has a yucky cough. There are no fevers though! Her counts were lower, but nothing too low. Kayla and Austin both feel okay, so I am not sure where this is coming from. I just hope it doesn't go into something else.

Jimmy is doing okay. He says on top of his meds, that way he is comfortable. He hated being off work and doing nothing before, now he is grumpy because he can't move too quick. It'll be okay.

Well, I better run. I'll post again soon........

Remember, we added new pictures to the "video" - you just have to watch it a little longer.......!

Monday, January 17, 2005 3:20 PM CST

I really should try and do this everyday. It's just that most days there isn't anything going on. Ashlyn is feeling okay. She is kind of gaggy again today, but kept down what we could get her to eat. She isn't a big fan of food yet, banana's and yogart are the only things that she wants to eat. She had a blood draw today, but we haven't heard back yet how they are.

As you may notice, we put a new "video" on of Ashlyn. The first 10 pictures are the same as the old one, but we did add more pictures if you continue to watch it. I just wish I knew how to put on different songs. The web site that provides the "video" doesn't have a lot to choose from.

Jimmy is doing okay. He hates that he is really "stuck" at home. He is suppose to lay down with his foot elevated above his heart. He tried to sit lower one afternoon and ended up paying for it because he was in a lot of pain! But, he is okay if he stays off his feet.

It really makes things a lot harder for me. I have to do all the chasing, feeding and baths alone now. He can't pick up Ashlyn and hold her when she is crying. But, I can appreciate that I am SLOWLY learning to have patience! (Very slowly TRYING to learn!) Maybe this will be that last for Jimmy!

We head to Sioux Falls again on Wednesday. I'll be making that trip alone. I hate driving two hours alone - it's not fun! But, maybe Ashlyn will sleep both ways and not get too upset!

I am so proud of myself! I am completley caught up on Ashlyn's cancer scrapbook. I have yet to finish my wedding album, but it's a work in progress. I better run. Jimmy is crabbin' about something. As Kayla would say, "He's being a crabby patty or a crusty crab!" (too much SpongeBob?)

Hope everyone is well!

Friday, January 14, 2005 2:15 PM CST

Hi everyone. Just a real quick note. I have two kids to take care of today!

Ashlyn is home and pretty cranky. Jimmy had surgery yesterday, so Ashlyn stayed with my mom. I guess she got sick a few times, but is a little better today.

Jimmy's surgery went okay. He is still kind of numb in the one leg, but that is expected to ware off soon. He is cranky too and not feeling the best.

I updated the photo album. I put a picture in of the tile I made for Ashlyn. It's cute! I'll post again soon!

Wednesday, January 12, 2005 11:17 PM CST

Hi. There isn't much more going on now. Ashlyn is asleep and Jimmy is eating and drinking as much as he can before midnight. He'll then be cut-off! He is still pretty nervous about tomorrow, but it'll be okay. The doctor mentioned that it would be painful, so he is kind of worried.

Ashlyn did really good on eating today. She had a pancake and a hotdog and some cheetos and various other snacks throughout the day. Today went a lot faster than yesterday did.

Renee and Travis will be here in the morning. (Jimmy's sister and nephew) They will be taking Ashlyn home. I get to stay another night in a hospital room with Jimmy. I guess it's only fair. He stayed over night with me ONCE when Kayla was born, almost 6 years ago! I know Ashlyn will be so happy to see both of them

Kayla called on Monday afterschool. She said that she signed up to audition for the school talent show....as a ballerina...? Okay? She is in gymnastics and cheerleading - where did ballet come into play? Anyway, after dancing around the livingroom for Grandma, she decided to to cheerleading. She will be joining her friend Gracie and Andrea doing what they do best - CHEERLEADING! I am so proud of her. I would have NEVER done anything like that EVER! The talent show is in February, so hopefully Ashlyn won't be in the hospital at that time! It will be so fun to watch!

This week we had Jimmy's step-sister Jessica come in to babysit Austin. For some reason, he didn't like that idea. On Tuesday, he didn't come out of his room until after Kayla got home. My mom said he was so worried about it all night. Mom also said that Austin was up at 5:30 this morning, getting dressed with his coat and shoes and he told her that he wasn't staying with Jessica, that he was going to work with her for the day. When Alexis picked up Kayla from school, she just had Austin go with her, that worked for him and he is happy again!

Well, that is all that is going on. I don't know if the other hospital has computers we can use, so I may not be able to post again until Friday. It's suppose to get anywhere from 20-35 BELOW zero here tomorrow. So everyone dress warm and if you travel, be careful of the blowing snow. (NOT AN OUNCE OF SNOW BEFORE CHRISTMAS. I"LL NEVER UNDERSTAND THAT - BUT IT WILL STAY AROUND UNTIL MAY!)

Goodnight!

Becky and Jimmy

Tuesday, January 11, 2005 11:09 PM CST

HI everyone. Ashlyn FINALLY went to sleep! She was so tired around eight, but if she goes to sleep that early, she is up at midnight. So I kept her up and she just now went to bed.

She is feeling okay today. Not very hungry. She has drank about 13 oz all day today and she only has eated two bananas. It is a step up from last time, she didn't eat until the third night. SHe is kind of tired too. She took two naps today. But overall, in good spirits.

They gave us a "project" today. When kids are constant patients at Sioux Valley (like we are), they have the child paint a ceiling tile for the peds floor. Since Ashlyn isn't old enough, I started one for her. It's Cheer Bear (care bear) holding a big ice cream cone. It's going pretty good. I'll be sure to post a pic when it's done. I want to write "Spreading Cheer in 2005" on it, but the brushes I have don't really let me write that clearly. So, we'll have to see. I am excited about it. Ashlyn points at it and says bear.

Well, I'll post again tomorrow. I don't know what time yet, but I will sometime. Hope everyone is doing good.

Jimmy's surgery is on Thursday. He is pretty nervous. But it'll be okay!

Monday, January 10, 2005 2:42 PM CST

Hi everyone. We are checked back into Sioux Valley. They haven't started the chemo yet. She has to have a hearing test done first. We are still waiting. She is taking a nap now, but feeling okay!

They said they wouldn't do the next MRI or CT scan for about 3 - 4 weeks. (yuck! another wait!)

Well, I better run! I'll post again soon!

Becky

Friday, January 7, 2005 11:24 PM CST

Hello all. Ashlyn's count came back okay today. They are sort of low, but good enough to go in for chemo again on Monday.

She is really crabby today. She has been cranky! Her eyes are still yucky and her nose is yucky. She has a little cough, but nothing that keeps her up. She had a bad night the other night. She woke up around midnight and was awake until about 3:40 AM. Long night! (I shouldn't stay up until 11:30 scrapbooking - I am happy to report Ashlyn's book is all caught up to date!)

Jimmy had a culture done on his leg. The doctor's office called today and nothing had grown, so it's a go-ahead with the surgery on Thursday. He is really nervous about it. It's the last hope for a fix on his ankle. Keep your fingers crossed!

Well, I am off to sleep. Hope everyone is having a good week. I'll post again sooN!

Wednesday, January 5, 2005 4:42 PM CST

We FINALLY hadour first snow fall! Yesterday morning when we got up, the forcast said we were in a Winter Storm Warning - wierd, there is no snow! Shortly there after, it started to snow. By morning, we have about 6"!

Jimmy had a doctor's appointment in Sioux Falls that we couldn't miss. He needed to have a bone aspiration done. We rounded up a babysitter and Jimmy and I had some time alone with no kids! His bone apspiration looked clear, but they are going to culutre it just in case.

Ashlyn isn't feeling the best today. She has goopy eyes again and runny nose and is just all around cranky. We head back to Sioux Valley again on Monday.

Well, I better go. Ashlyn is pulling on my leg! I'll post again soon!

Saturday, January 1, 2005 4:24 PM CST

Happy New Year!

We had an uneventful new year. Jimmy was asleep by 11, along with the kids. Oh well!

Ashlyn is doing okay. Her counts were pretty low, but they are coming back up again. She is still kind of crabby, but it's getting better. Her nights aren't much better yet. She is still waking up a lot. I long for a good nights sleep!

We head to Sioux Falls twice this week. Ashlyn has an appointment with Dr. T and Jimmy goes to see Dr. Alvine. ashlyn's appointment shouldn't be a big deal and Jimmy is having a bone aspiration done. They are looking for more infection in his foot. Too bad this year isn't starting out any better than the last year. Maybe next year.

Anyway, sorry I don't have anything else to update on. She is doing okay. Two weeks until we go back to Sioux Valley. I'll post again soon. Thank you for checking on Ashlyn. We love to read the guestbook! So keep signing!

Monday, December 27, 2004 11:20 PM CST

Tuesday night: I added a new picture in the album. Ashlyn will ALL of her Care Bears!

Hi there. I hope everyone had a good Christmas. We finally wrapped up the last one tonight!

Ashlyn is feeling okay. She is still really tired. Her counts are pretty low too. We'll have a re-check on Wednesday and then go from there. We never heard back from the doc over the weekend, so her tests results must have come back negative. But she still isn't feeling the best. At least there are no fevers.

A quick note on Jimmy. He went into Sioux Valley with Ashlyn on Monday last week for a bone scan. We got a call Thursday afternoon stating that the bone scan looked like there was STILL a trace of infection. They are going to do an aspiration on the 5th to check. Ashlyn goes in for chemo on the 10th (as long as her counts are good) and then Jimmy will check in for another surgery on the 13th. They are going to try and fix what they can, only a 50hance it will even work.

The new year isn't starting out any better than this one is ending. It's just one thing after another! I am tired of it! I just can't get over how much "yuck" we have had this year! But, everything will turn out for the best, right?

Anyway, my grandparents are here from Deadwood. So we have a few days of family stuff going on. I'll post again on Wednesday and let everyone know what her counts are and what is going on. She is starting to eat again. She slowed down a bit, but is slowly coming around. She was pretty sick for a few days.

Good night! I'll post soon, I am putting in some hosptial pics and some Christmas pics in the album, take a peek!

Saturday, December 25, 2004 10:29 PM CST

Merry Christmas.

What a BUSY day. I don't think it will ever end. Ashlyn didn't get to join us in Woonsocket tonight. This round of chemo has been a lot harder on her. She isn't feeling very well yet. Her blood culture must have come back negative because they didn't call today. That's a good sign.

Jimmy got the results from his bone scan. It looks like there may still be some infection in his bone. They are doing a bone aspiration on the 5th. We'll know more then.

Well, I am so tired, I am going to get to bed. Well, if Ashlyn ever does. She doesn't ever seem very tired. And when she does go to bed, she wakes up ALL NIGHT LONG! My Christmas wish was for a full nights sleep, but some day, right?

Hope everyone had a great Christmas.

Thursday, December 23, 2004 10:31 AM CST

I thought I would squeeze in a quick update. We are waiting for the nurses to draw more blood.

Her blood culture grew postitive for gram positive. They are drawing blood again. They said there are a couple of possiblities. The nurse drawing the blood could have contaminated it. Or there could be an infection in her blood, her line or heart. They are going to wait and see what happens with the next culture. They said they would call in 2 days and let us know what it comes out. If it is positive again, they said we'll have to come back. Yeah.

She FINALLY ate last night. She had part of a banana. She even had some french toast this morning. That is good.

Well, I'll keep everyone posted. HOpe everyone reading has a Merry Christmas!

Wednesday, December 22, 2004 1:01 PM CST

HI all. I am watching Kayla play with the kitchen set here, so I thought I would write a quick update on Ashlyn.

She isn't eating any better. She is drinking okay, but she has only had 2 bites of jello today. She won't even drink her formula this time around. (FYI for those who don't know, Ashlyn has a milk allergy, so she is still on formula) She is taking a nap with daddy right now. Kayla is patiently waiting for her unlce Matt to pick her up and take her home. She is pretty bored in the room. Too bad too, Ashlyn loves having her here.

They took a bunch of blood on Monday night when she was running a fever. They had it cultured and it came back that it grew positive for grand something or another. I can't remember. They don't know if it is just the blood was infected from the line or if it is in her system. She hasn't run a fever for a while, but we can't go home yet. They were thinking about letting us go today, but since that came back and she isn't eating, we're still here.

Other than that, there isn't much going on. Christmas is a few days away already. I can say our family is ready for 2004 to end. What a year!

I'll post again soon!

Monday, December 20, 2004 9:36 PM CST

Hi. I have a few minutes, so I thought that I would write a quick note.

I wasn't prepared for the long day and evening we had yesterday. I was up until 1:00 AM finishing the packing and cleaning. I didn't even get to finish wrapping what small amount of gifts we had to wrap. Austin woke up around 1:30, just minutes after I finally fell asleep.

We left for Sioux Falls around 6:20 AM. We didn't count on bad roads to delay the drive. About 20 miles out of Sioux Falls we had some freezing rain. It literally froze to the windshield when it hit. Pretty icy too. Jimmy had the IV part of his bone scan started and we were done by 9:00. SO, we headed to Target to grab two more gifts and then headed back to the hospital.

When we first checked in Ashlyn was kind of grouchy. She had a fever of about 99, but it wasn't too big of a deal. She has to be hydrated before they will start the chemo, so she had 2 hours of fluids and then they started. But she just didn't act like she felt good. She was pretty cranky still and didn't want to do much. She started to run a little higher fever and still cranky. Even when you look at her eyes, you can see she doesn't feel good. Her fever now is at 101.3, they took a bunch of blood and she fell asleep again. So, we'll see.

Kayla comes tomorrow. She is excited to hear Ashlyn say her name. Ashlyn would say Austin all the time, but never Kayla. It sounds more like LaLa, but we get it. Hopefully the weather cooperates. It looks like we may get a few sprinkles, but nothing else. It's odd that it's December, and our grass is still kind of green! I'll post again tomorrow sometime.

Sunday, December 19, 2004 3:16 PM CST

Just a quick note. Ashlyn's benefit was today. With breakfast, a donation jar and the auction, the Moose raised over $4,000.00 today. A BIG thank you to everyone who helped out!

I'll post again tonight. We leave for Sioux Valley tomorrow. Ashlyn has chemo and Jimmy has a bone scan.

I added pictures from the benefit tonight. Go ahead and check them.

Wednesday, December 15, 2004 9:44 PM CST

Hi there. Just a quick note before bed time. The kids had a Christmas program at church tonight. It went pretty good. I can't really say the same for the talent show. But, that's okay. Ashlyn went and had fun running around. She wore a new dress and she looked so pretty!

We had a family picture taken real quick tonight. I had my eight year old niece snap a quick shot of us in front of the tree. It isn't too bad for the un-planned-ness of the picture. I posted it in the photo album so you can peek at it.

Well, Ashlyn is crying now, she wants to watch her web site. I'll post again soon.

And Sean and Carrie, if you are reading this: Have a great time in Mexico. We are so sorry we can't be there! Congrats! Love each other everyday and always!

Talk to you all again soon!

Jimmy and Becky

Sunday, December 12, 2004 11:21 PM CST

Good evening! I just thought I would write a quick update. There isn't much going on right now. Ashlyn is doing pretty good. She is still tired, but her counts are up. Which is good. She didn't need the transfussion on Friday, but her ANC is still lower.

We head to Sioux Falls again tomorrow. Yeah. Austin comes with this time to meet with Dr. Lundien. We'll have to schedule a sleep study again. (FYI for those who don't know, Austin was diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea in September) Hopefully they won't do that until February. January filled up with things fast.

The next two weeks until Christmas will be very busy. We go to Sioux Falls on the 13th, Christmas program at church on the 15th, school Christmas program on the 16th, Kayla's cheerleading performance the 17th, Ashlyn's benefit on the 19th, back to Sioux Falls on the 20th - 23rd, Kayla's dental work on the 22nd, of course Christmas! WOW! Not including cheerleading practices, teacher visits and driving back and forth to Sioux Falls!

Well, I better go. I added a new picture in the photo album. I added one of Kayla in her cheer outfit! She looks so cute! I love it! She is Ashlyn's biggest fan!

Hope everyone has a great day tomorrow! Thanks for checking on Ashlyn. We appreciate it and check the guestbook often!

Wednesday, December 8, 2004 11:16 PM CST

Hi. Ashlyn is doing pretty good. She ventured with us to Sioux Falls today. She did pretty good! Took a few naps, but still went to bed on time.

I know this web site is about Ashlyn, but we had some news on Jimmy today that I know some people who check this would be interested in.

We met with Dr. Alvine today, the ankle specialist. He did an x-ray on Jimmy's foot with his brace on. He said the brace isn't doing anything. It is taking some weight off the ankle, but the bones are still crushing as he is walking. He had said that he knows we have a lot going on right now with Ashlyn, but he needs to have his surgery done as soon as possible. They have "take apart his leg and re-build it". They will also be taking bone fragments out of his leg to put in his ankle to try and fill the gaps that aren't suppose to be there. Dr. Alvine said it will be a painful surgery and recovery time is about 10-12 weeks. They are going to fuse part of it together, so he will not have the side to side movement anymore. We were lucky that his case manager, Faith, scheduled the surgery in October for January 13th. (before we knew anything about Ashlyn.) Ashlyn should be discharged from Sioux Valley on the 13th, so I'll just stay with Jimmy while my mom and Renee have the kids. It'll be rough, but what hasn't this year?

Kayla had her first cheer performance tonight at the Corn Palace. She did a great job! All the girls looked so cute! It was a good time.

Well, it's late, so I should get to bed. Talk to you all soon and I hope you don't mind I posted about Jimmy. I should just set up his own caringbridge site!

Tuesday, December 7, 2004 9:38 AM CST

Ashlyn had a doctors appointment yesterday. Her white count was pretty low. We have to give her the GCSF shots an extra three days to try and bring that up. She is still pretty tired, but doing well.

The area where she has the line placed into her chest is really irriated. Dr. T said they have seen a lot of kids with the same problem. It was so irritated that when they took the tape off, it bled a little bit. She has been scratching at it now for a few days, but they chaned her dressing material and that should make a big difference.

I had mentioned to the doctor that Ashlyn isn't sleeping very well at night. She'll be asleep for a few hours and then wake up screaming. She said it sounds like she is having night terrors. I guess it makes sense, too bad I don't get a whole lot of sleep at night. Last night was a little better.

We are headed to Sioux Falls again tomorrow. Austin and Jimmy have appointments. Great, can't wait!

I am gonna run now. Ashlyn is pulling at my leg wanting me to hold her. I'll post again soon. And thanks for checking back for updates.

Becky, Jimmy, and family

Friday, December 3, 2004 10:11 PM CST

Hi. It's bedtime around here again. Ashlyn had a pretty good day. She woke up really early, took an early nap and had a cat nap in the afternoon. She had a bad night last night though. She tossed, turned and cried all night long. It was obvious she did a lot of tossing in the night, both sides of her head were pretty bare. She looked kinda funny with patches everywhere, so we took the rest off tonight. She did really good and she walks around and rubs her head. Her daddy and brother decided to not have her do it alone, they shaved their heads tonight too! Ashlyn was kind of afraid of daddy when he was finished, but she got over it.

Her site area is really irritated. She had a sponge bath tonight and it was so red. She kept messing with it. Dr. T advised to leave it uncovered over night and tomorrow morning it should be better.

We are trying to take a picture of her in her Christmas dress for the posters they are making for the moose. She didn't smile and didn't smile and we kept trying and trying, we did finally get one. But we missed her regular window of bedtime. Now she is wide awake wanting to read another book.

I am going to put two new pictures in her photo album. One of her and Austin with their haircuts and another of just her by the tree. We are looking for a good photo to put on the posters. Let me know what you think.

The 19th of December is the benefit at the Moose. From 9-12 is breakfast, noon is the start of the auction (they are looking for anyone to donate crafts or baked goods), from 2-4 Santa will be there and at 4:00 starts karaoke. (can't spell!)

Talk to you again soon!

Wednesday, December 1, 2004 11:20 PM CST

Good evening. Today we noticed that some of the chemo is affecting Ashlyn now. She was tired a lot today. She took a nap in the late morning before lunch for about 30 minutes (which is the normal amount of time, if we are lucky, that she sleeps) then this afternoon she took a two hour nap! And she is really cranky today too. She did okay on eating. Not quite as hungry as usual, but she ate well. She is doing good on drinking too. We don't go to Sioux Falls until Monday. Then we go back on Wednesday for Jimmy and Austin to go to the doctor and then back on Friday for Ashlyn. The following week isn't much better for travel and things going on, but it's okay. At least the weather is still pretty nice! Just chilly!

I added new pictures to the View Photos link. My favorite one is the one in the middle. Ashlyn loves to hear Somewhere Over the Rainbow and she loves to watch her photos flash by. She wants us to sit at the computer all day long, so I got tired of sitting there and just left it on. She didn't want to stand there, so she went into the kitchen and found Kayla's step stool. She struggled, but she carried it into the diningroom, sat it down, sat on it and watched her video. It's so cute. You can kind of see where her hair is missing. If you watch her 'video', you'll see the back of head on the photo of her biopsy scar, check out the curls! What a difference a month makes! Also on her video is a picture of her Care Bear collection. In the picture there are 15, she actually has 17, but we didn't find two of them until we were done downloading the pics on the computer. She has duplicates of some, but our goal is to get one of each different one. She just loves them so much!

Well, I am tired. Thanks again for checking in on her. Your continued prayers are appreciated! And they are working, because she is doing great!

Tuesday, November 30, 2004 10:09 PM CST

Hi everyone. Ashlyn had her second round of chemo yesterday. They gave her three different kinds of chemo. She did pretty good. Her appetite has slowed a little and she isn't drinking as much. She will eat and drink though. She is a lot more tired this time than last. We are lucky if she takes a nap in one day, she had three today and she was asleep by 9:30 tonight. She had a toss and turny kind of night last night, so we'll see how it goes. We know now we need to stay on top of the zophran to keep her from getting sick. I'll set the alarm and do it through the night. Too bad she is getting worse at taking medications.

Her hair is getting even worse. You can tell what side she sleeps on at night. The top is about the same but the sides are really starting to get patchy. We may have to cut more off.

We did a "roll call" of her Care Bears today. 17 and counting! She always takes her singing Care Bear with her everywhere. She dropped it last night and now it doesn't work. She is so sad. I went to Walmart and Target and I couldn't find one that sings. Maybe SANTA will find her one!

Okay, gotta get to bed. I'll post again soon in a few days to let everyone know how she is. Thank you for checking regularly!

Saturday, November 27, 2004 11:16 PM CST

And we have PINK EYE, AGAIN! She started with the icky eyes and then it got red. This morning she woke up with BOTH eyes matted shut. I don't know where this stuff comes from.

Thanksgiving was unusal this year. Usually we travel to see my grandparents on my dad's side. It was really wierd to be home all day long, but we cooked dinner and had some family over. Ashlyn was really cranky and she has grown a strong disliking for her car seat. We missed them all, but we'll see them soon! We had enough food to feed a small country. But it all makes GREAT leftovers!

We head back to Sioux Valley on Monday for the next round of chemo. When I talked to Dr. T today, she said that this one was just a one-dayer! We'll come home on Tuesday as long as she is eating and drinking.

Her hair is getting really thin now. She sleeps on her left side most of the time, so that side really has hair missing. The other side is thin, but she looks sweet. I'll be putting on new pictures in a few days. I have been taking some of her by our Christmas tree. (we have had that up for about a week and a half) She sits on a box right next to it and looks at it, it's cute.

Well, I better go, we have church in the morning. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving!

Wednesday, November 24, 2004 10:01 PM CST

New photos! New photos! Matt finally got home with my camera and I got some new ones on there. I see her curls and it makes me sad, but it's all okay.

We are busy getting ready for Thanksgiving. We are hosting part of my moms family and Jimmy's family tomorrow. 13 adults and 7 kids! Wow! That is a lot. We spent the day cleaning. My mom got so behind, now I have to go and help her at work tomorrow!

Ashlyn is doing good today. Her hair is really starting to come out now. Even when she just is resting her head down. We tried putting her care bear wrap on her head, but she didn't leave it on very long.

She had blood drawn today. Her counts are slowly climbing back up. We go back to Sioux Valley on Monday to start another round of chemo. We are hoping she does as well with this round as the other. We have heard many "don't get your hopes up". That is understandable though!

Well, I have to get started on "favorite". (a tapioca fruit salad my grandma makes that we have called favorite since I could talk!)

We hope everyone has a safe and Happy Thanksgiving! And good luck to all you 6 AM shoppers! See you there! (hehehe!)

Monday, November 22, 2004 11:33 PM CST

I didn't think that I would post again this soon, but I thought I would write another quick note.

I was talking to my friend Stephanie tonight. I had mentioned that a little bit of Ashlyn's hair was starting to fall out. Well, tonight Ashlyn was playing with her hair and started to pull it - and out came a glob of hair! And she kept doing it! (probably because I kept telling her to stop it!) That has always been the "clincher" for me. It will then sink in that Ashlyn has cancer because of the whole hair deal. Maybe I am making too much of it, I don't know. It just makes it real, I guess. I scheduled an appointment with Kim tomorrow. She is going to cut it shorter. I wanted to keep some of the curls for her baby book. I am still so sad.........:(

On a better note, the scrapbook of Ashlyn's journey is coming along. I need to be careful though, I am taking too many pictures. I'll get my camera back from my brother this weekend. He is home from France! I want to take a picture of the front page of that book, it is so cute! I just have too many books going at one time. At least Kayla, Austin and Ashlyn's regular books are caught up. I am still dragging on my wedding album and now I am trying to do Ashlyn's cancer book. At least it is something that I LOVE TO DO!

Ashlyn will go in on Wednesday to the Cancer Center here in Mitchell for some blood draws. Her hemoglobin was kind of low (9.9) last week, but everything else looked pretty good. Hopefully she'll be able to handle her next round of chemo just as nice. Too bad we are scheduled to go back in just before Christmas. It will make her sick over the holiday. But there is always next year, and the next and the next and the next...............ect!

Okay, I am going to get to bed. Ashlyn's haircut is in the morning and then Santa will be downtown tomorrow before the Parade of Lights. (Ashlyn doesn't get to go to the parade. It is only suppose to be in the low 30's tomorrow!)

I'll post again soon! Thanks for checking on Ashlyn! And thanks for signing her guestbook. As I said last time, Ashlyn loves to sit and look at her page. She loves herself! It's so cute, I'll post a pic of it soon! Happy Thanksgiving!

Sunday, November 21, 2004 10:01 PM CST

Hi there. Ashlyn is asleep, by almost an hour now! I got an interesting phone call today from Dr. Heather. The other night when I took Ashlyn to the ER, the did a test on her (just imagine, I can't remember what kind) and it came back yesterday that she has hand-foot-mouth disease (is that what it is called?) It would explain the sores that Austin has in his mouth, his sore throat, Ashlyn's red throat and BOTH of their crankiness! They each ran a fever for a while too. Of course, it's a virus. Not much you can do.

We actually don't have to make any scheduled trips to Sioux Falls this week. We go in on Wednesday and have her blood drawn. I keep hearing how the next round of chemo won't be as easy. I suppose no one wants to get my hopes up. I am still waiting for the hair thing to happen. So far nothing but a few strands now and then.

We got the Christmas photos back. They didn't turn out too bad. Ashlyn wasn't real excited about sitting still, but she did okay. I would have been happier with a smile, but I'll take what I can get!

Thank you for checking Ashlyn's web site. Please feel free to sign the guestbook as often as you would like! We check the site daily! And Ashlyn LOVES to sit and watch the little video with music of herself. If anyone gets near the computer she is over there ready to watch. When I FINALLY get my camera back from Matt, I'll take a picture and post it. It's cute how she rocks back and forth! And I'll be able to update the photo album this weekend!

Hope everyone has a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!

Friday, November 19, 2004 10:38 PM CST

Hi there. It's about 10:40 PM. I am waiting patiently for Ashlyn to get tired. She is usually so good at going to bed at a decent time. The last two nights haven't been easy!

She is feeling really good. She went in for a few days of antibiotics and seems to be doing fine. No fevers or anything! She is still kind of cranky. But, who can blame her.

We don't have any major plans for this next week. The Parade of Lights is Tuesday night. Santa will be at the downtown park in the afternoon. We might take Kayla and Austin down. Wal-mart asked us to participate on their float. Wal-mart does a lot with CMN (children's miracle network) and we have actually benefitted form CMN in the last month. They want us to ride on their float. Ashlyn won't be going because it will be too cold out. Kayla said she wants to watch the parade and Austin said he would ride. We'll see, I don't know yet!

We might be driving to Woonsocket for Thanksgiving dinner. It will depend on how everyone is feeling. We decided not to do anything big this year ~ then again, we usually don't for Thanksgiving.

Ashlyn goes back to Sioux Valley on the 29th for another round of chemo. I just wish she would take her oral meds better. She is getting frustrated with them and spitting them out. The one is okay, but we'll have to take others when we come home again to keep her counts up. If everything goes smoothly again, she'll do another round on December 20th.

I am going to TRY and get her to sleep again. Thanks for checking on Ashlyn!

Good Night!

Wednesday, November 17, 2004 4:48 PM CST

We are back from the doctor. Ashlyn is still running a low fever and she is still pretty cranky. Dr. T says that she has strep throat. We had a dose of IV antibiotics and will have them again Thursday and Friday. Austin started to complain of headaches and a sore throat a little while ago. I'll have to take him in tomorrow for a "swab". He isn't to happy about that.

Ashlyn's blood levels still look pretty good. She will go in on Wednesday to the Cancer Center here in Mitchell for more lab work. Then on the 29th we check into Sioux Valley for some more chemo.

I added more pictures and some music to her web site. I am having a new web site made for her. You will still be able to access it through the address you have. It will just be more personalized. Of course, in Care Bears!

Thanks for checking in on Ashlyn. I'll post again tomorrow!

Tuesday, November 16, 2004 11:51 PM CST

Well, tonight turned into another long night. We just returned from the ER with Ashlyn.

As many of you know, Kayla had been sick the last few days. We kept Kayla in the seperate bedroom with a bathroom so she didn't have to leave the room at all. Anytime any of us went in the room and came out, we washed our hands. And, by the way, Kayla is feeling 100etter now!

Anyway, Ashlyn started running a low fever (99). "THE BOOK" (big binder full of info from the oncologist) says that a fever over 100.4 should be reported. I checked it again about 30 minutes later and it was 101.2. So, I called the doc in Sioux Falls and she made arrangements with Dr. Arnold to meet us in the ER.

In the mean time, they drew lots of blood from her Broviac line and even from her arm. They swabbed her throat because it was kind of red and they swabbed her nose to check for RSV. Everything came back negative. While we waited, she managed to throw up all over me. We had gone over her 6 hours for zophran, so she got sick. We waited some more and all her labs were normal.

We do go and see Dr T tomorrow. So we'll see what happens. We aren't allowed to give her anything for her fever, so we just wait. She is sleeping now, but I have to wake her to give her the CGSF shot. (I am NOT looking forward to that!)

I'll post again tomorrow after her appointment. Thanks for checking on us! Thanks for the prayers!

Monday, November 15, 2004 4:33 PM CST

Howdy! I just got back from the hospital - suprislingly, it wasn't Ashlyn who had to go! Kayla started running a fever and getting sick on Saturday night. She was so dehydrated, that Dr. Heather wanted her to have IV fluids and antibiotics. She doesn't feel good and can't keep anything down. Poor angel. And she was such a BIG girl when they did the IV. (remember, this is the girl who had to have THREE nurses hold her down to get the flu shot!)

Ashlyn went in today for lab work. Her platelets and white blood count were both normal. Her hemoglobin was low, but not too bad! That is such good news! She has had some loose diapers today, but still feeling pretty good. She is having a hard time sleeping through the night. She woke up last night around 3 AM again screaming. Even when she got up at 8 this morning she was screaming. And she is really whiny (spell???) But, she could be a LOT worse! We head back to Sioux Valley again on Wednesday. Dr. T will check her blood again and change her dressing. It still looks pretty good. We kind of gave her a "bath" last night. Mom held her over the sink while I washed her hair. Then she sat on the edge of the kitchen sink to wash her body. She liked it, but was pretty mad when she couldn't climb in the sink!

As many of you know, I am crazy when it comes to taking pictures and doing scrapbooks. I was only going to add a page in Ashlyn's regular scrapbook on her cancer, but I decided that since I already have a stack of pictures and many cards, that I would do an entire book on it. I did the first 3 pages last night and I just LOVE her first page. When I get my camera back from Matt, I'll take a picture of it and post it. It is so cute! I am anxious to get started more!

Well, it's about dinner time and Kayla is hollering from the other room. I'll post again soon.

Be sure to sign the guestbook. I will be printing it for her scrapbook and we like to check several times a day for new posts! Thanks for the prayers!

Saturday, November 13, 2004 9:26 PM CST

Hello everyone. Well, the chemo is starting to take effect on our Ashlyn. She was doing so well!

We gave her the first GSCF shot last night. Around 3:30 AM she woke up screaming. The doctors had said that the shot could cause bone pain, so I gave her some tylenol. In the mean time, she woke up grandma, who finally rocked her back to sleep, but not until almost 4:30. Around 5:15, I got up again. I was taking Kayla to a cheer compitition in Sioux Falls and had to be there by 8 AM. As I was digging for pony tail holders, I heard Ashlyn in my mom's room. She had gotten sick all over the place. Now Austin and Grandma were awake.

I then gave her some of her nausea meds. She was still playing when I left, but not before everyone in the house was awake.

Jimmy called around 11 to tell me that the diarrhea had started. She was keeping things down, just not in! It did get better by early afternoon. But things must taste funny to her already. She will take a bite of something or a drink of something and she tries to wipe off her tounge. She makes a face when she tries anything. Poor Angel. I am still hoping, deep inside, that her hair won't fall out! But I am ready! Christina Lillig, founder of Cancer Warriors, sent Ashlyn a BEAUTIFUL head wrap yesterday - of course, it is in Care Bears! And her Cancer Warrior Angels (Loryn, Laura and Shannon)sent her, Kayla and Austin all gifts yesterday as well. Kayla and Austin were so happy to be included in the gift giving! Thank you guys!


She is feeling better right now. Jimmy is trying to get her to go to sleep. It has been a long day for all of us! But Austin is running around, so we'll see. Wish us luck on that!

~*~*~*~*~*~* Be sure to check out the link below that says ASHLYN'S QUILT OF LOVE!!!!! It is so cute! It was made by Angel Jane from Quilts of Love! It is just awsome! Be sure to visit!!! It does have music too! ~*~*~*~*~*~*

Thursday, November 11, 2004 11:42 PM CST

Hey everyone! I am sorry that my post earlier was so short and to the point. I hadn't seen the other two kids in a few days, so they needed some mom time with me!

Ashlyn is doing so well!!!!!! I am just amazed! You don't have a clue about what her little life entails right now if you just look at her run around the house! It's been pretty easy so far........and I say so far.

They sent us home with 4 different meds. 2 are antibiotics (one of them you only take on Saturday's and Sunday's) the Zophran (for nausea) and another one (I can't remember the name) for sores that could appear in her mouth.) She also has to have a G-CSF shot once a day for a week. This will help the blood cells become "healthy" again so she can have another round of chemo. So far the schedule says we'll go back 11.29, 12.20 and 1.10. But those can change at anytime - it all depends on her blood work.

Changing diapers is a longer process for the next day or so. We have to wear medical gloves when we change her. The doctor said that her urine will contain part of the chemo and if we touch it and it is absorbed into our skin, the drug will kill all healthy blood cells. (I don't know if changing a diaper would actually give off that much, but what ever they say, we do!) So, Austin didn't like the gloves and got mad when I put them on........maybe he remembers his doctor days!

We learned how to changer her dressing where her Broviac (don't know how to spell it!) line goes into her chest. I am hoping we don't actually have to change it. The hardest part is actually getting the old tape off. I am so afraid that I am going to pull it out! If I have to I will, but Dr. T said it could be changed in her office on Wednesday.

Anyway, it's after midnight now. I have to wake Ashlyn up at 2 AM for her naseau meds. They are working, so lets stay with it, right? I'll post again soon.

Thank you for checking on Ashlyn!

Thursday, November 11, 2004 12:55 AM CST

I am writing just a quick entry for right now. We got to come home today! She is still feeling really good and she ate something when we came home! The doctors said to expect her to start not feeling better around Saturday. That is when her blood counts will start to drop.

I just wanted to let everyone know that we are home for now. I'll post again tonight!

Tuesday, November 9, 2004 10:16 PM CST

Hi everyone. I am just waiting for the laudry to finish. I added a poem that a friend of mine wrote for Ashlyn. I was going to add it earlier, but I hadn't yet. (See Shanna!)

Anyway, today was the first day of educating us on the health of our daughter. We learned about blood counts, what they mean and what could happen. The nurse had said that blood transfusion or a platlet transfusion were possible with the type of chemo she has. We know now that any "little" thing could be a BIG thing with Ashlyn. A fever of 99 degrees over a few hours time could be extremely serious. It's a lot to take in. But DON'T worry! I am so organized it's irritating. The docs gave me a three ring binder with all the info in it. I bought dividers and seperated and color coded EVERYTHING! (I know some of you aren't suprised!) I have to be organized or I don't function correctly! So, we will be fine.

They also made me change the dressing on her central line today. I said the entire time that I didn't want to do it, but they are making me anyway. It took three people to hold her down while I peeled tape away and scrubbed her baby skin. I hated EVERY second of it. (Remind me to THINK VERY HARD ABOUT BECOMING A NURSE!!!!) We did get it done, but it wasn't easy. Needless to say, she took a nice nap after that!

They changed her chemo start time to 6:00 PM tonight. She did fairly well the entire day. The only noticable change in her is her appitite. She isn't eating as much as she normally does. She is usually a VERY healthy eater. She munched and stuff, but not as much. She is still drinking just fine. And so far she hasn't gotten sick. They said it could take a week for that to kick in. (Way to burst my bubble!) But she is playing and just as fiesty as ever!

Tomorrow we learn how to give her the G-CSF shot. On average the shot will be given for 7 to 10 days. We haven't done that yet, so I am not sure what it is for. I'll let you know. They are also going to start her last chemo treatment at 4 tomorrow. So we MIGHT get to come home tomorrow night. It depends on how she feels and how she is doing. We'll be doing a LOT of driving back and forth to Sioux Falls. Too bad we live an hour away. She has to come once a week to see her oncologist. Most of the blood draws could be done at Dr. Heather's office, so that should help.

It's too bad that it is WINTER time now. Driving back and forth isn't going to be fun. I am thankful that JImmy is here with me now. I can't imagine having to do all this alone all the time. My mom has the kids most of the time. I am not sure what we would do without her. I know that it isn't easy for her, but we appreciate it so much! (Remember that mom! Even if we don't say it!)

I'll be sure to post again tomorrow and let everyone know what the plan is. And a reminder for when we do get home, no one with a yucky nose or even a cold is allowed to visit. They said we can take her out, just try to avoid the really busy times and crowds. If she even starts a fever of 100.4 degrees, they will admit her and begin treating her for an infection. An automatic 2 day hospital stay! (our NEW home!)

I better get to the laundry. I am sure it is done. I just love this hospital! Oh yeah, I was going to mention....today Ashlyn recieved VERY BEAUTIFUL flowers and a balloon from RENEE, CHRIS and MAYA. (from 09.03 playgoup) They are just beautiful pink and purple flowers. The nurse also brought her a beautiful quilt that was made for her through the Linus Club. (you know, Linus, the kid from Peanuts who carries the blankey). It's just awsome that there are so many people out there praying for us and we don't even know them. And Thanks everyone for your thoughts and kind words! And thanks to everyone who manages to say a little prayer for her! We appreciate it.

Okay, now I am going. I'll write again tomorrow. Good Night!

Monday, November 8, 2004 11:20 PM CST

It's still MOnday. If you haven't read through the earlier journal, please do so, it will make this entry a lot easier to understand.

At 6:27 PM, Ashlyn had her first dose of chemo. We asked the nurse how long it would take for her to not feel good, and she said it could be right away - or take a while. But, Ashlyn is feeling pretty good - so far. She ate some macaroni and cheese, some crackers and a cookie. She wasn't too thrilled about what they had to drink around here. She likes her grape water! I'll have to go to the store tomorrow. But she played tonight and smiled! So far so good!

Ashlyn actually answered a question today. I had asked her if she wanted a bottle. She looked at me and shook her head NO. I asked her if she was ready for nigh nigh and she said no and shook her head again! I was so thrilled! She is getting so big! I can't beleive it!

Tomorrow we learn more. Michelle will teach us how to change the dressing on her line. I am not looking forward to that! And we'll learn more about meds and stuff. If you have any questions, please ask. If I don't know the answer, I will find it!

I'll post again tomorrow night. We meet with Dr. T again and we'll have another dose of chemo.

Thanks again for the encouraging words!

Monday, November 8, 2004 3:42 PM CST

We finally have some more information. Ashlyn had an appointment with Dr. T this morning. She is in stage 2A. (the tumor has grown larger, but still remains on only one side of the body). Dr. Bailey put in her central line this afternoon and as soon as she is out of recovery, she'll have her first round of chemo.

Dr. T said that she will need 1 cycle of chemo, which means she'll have 4 rounds of chemo. They are starting with two drugs. VP-16 (etoposide) runs about 2 hours a day for three days. The side effects are mild nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, hair loss and low blood counts. Carboplatin runs about 1 hour for 1 day. Side effects are low blood counts and nausea/vomiting. There are scary less common side effects, but lets not talk about them. We will be in the hospital a few days a month, so hopefully she'll feel good!

Michelle, the RN in charge of "educating" us will finish going over things tomorrow. I'll be sure to post again tomorrow when we learn more.

Thanks again for the prayers and thoughts! We appreciate them so much!

Saturday, November 6, 2004 7:28 PM CST

HI All!

It's been a long week for us around here! Today I took Kayla to a Dance and Cheerleading Comptition in Brookings. My niece, Melissa participated. Kayla's group didn't go to this one. But we had a good time and Melissa's team did a GREAT job! Ashlyn didn't go. She hung out with her dad and brother all day.

Tomorrow we are taking Ashlyn to church. I am really excited because there are so many great people there and they are all praying for her. She hasn't been there in a while and she probably won't go for a while, so tomorrow is special!

Monday takes us back to Sioux Falls. It will mean that reality has to set in again. Ashlyn meets with her oncologist at 11 AM and then around 1 PM, they are putting in her central line. I am not certain if they are doing chemo Monday or I thought I heard Wednesday.

Because we don't know which type of chemo she'll have, we went and had their Christmas pictures done on Friday. It didn't go very smooth, but we did get one picture that didn't turn out too bad. I just love her curls so much I wanted a picture of them! (which doesn't matter because you can't really see them!)I know it's silly because hair grows back, but that is what makes this so real for me.

But anyway, Ashlyn looks like a dirt bug from hanging out with daddy all day, so it's bath time for her.

I'll post again on Monday after her appointment! Thanks again for your prayers and thoughts!

Lots of Love ~ Ashlyn

Saturday, November 6, 2004 7:28 PM CST

HI All!

It's been a long week for us around here! Today I took Kayla to a Dance and Cheerleading Comptition in Brookings. My niece, Melissa participated. Kayla's group didn't go to this one. But we had a good time and Melissa's team did a GREAT job! Ashlyn didn't go. She hung out with her dad and brother all day.

Tomorrow we are taking Ashlyn to church. I am really excited because there are so many great people there and they are all praying for her. She hasn't been there in a while and she probably won't go for a while, so tomorrow is special!

Monday takes us back to Sioux Falls. It will mean that reality has to set in again. Ashlyn meets with her oncologist at 11 AM and then around 1 PM, they are putting in her central line. I am not certain if they are doing chemo Monday or I thought I heard Wednesday.

Because we don't know which type of chemo she'll have, we went and had their Christmas pictures done on Friday. It didn't go very smooth, but we did get one picture that didn't turn out too bad. I just love her curls so much I wanted a picture of them! (which doesn't matter because you can't really see them!)I know it's silly because hair grows back, but that is what makes this so real for me.

But anyway, Ashlyn looks like a dirt bug from hanging out with daddy all day, so it's bath time for her.

I'll post again on Monday after her appointment! Thanks again for your prayers and thoughts!

Lots of Love ~ Ashlyn

Wednesday, November 3, 2004 11:59 PM CST

Hi everyone! Ashlyn is alseep now, so I thought I would write a quick "note".

She is so HAPPY to be home. The second she was in the door, she ran to Kayla, then grandma and then Austin. I think she did too much playing yesterday. She was really cranky last night. It was too much.

Her night didn't go the greatest. She can't decide if she wants to be held or not. She isn't comfortable and you have to be careful how you pick her up. Today she was cranky again, but we stayed on top of the motrin and tylenol. She isn't much of a sleeper, but she took 3 naps today! Yeah for me!

Tomorrow we meet with Dr. Bailey. When we left Sioux Valley on Tuesday, he said her "owie" was kind of red and wanted to check it Thursday. I will be getting my flu shot then too. They are required for everyone living in the home.

On Monday we go back and meet with Dr. T (oncologist). We'll plan getting her central line put in for chemo. But we aren't sure of all the details.

Thank you for checking on Ashlyn! Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated. We love to check the guestbook a few times a day and check for new messages. And Thanks to Allie's Angels and Cancer Warriors. They have made this awful experience a little easier.

New photos were added yesterday!

Tuesday, November 2, 2004 11:14 AM CST

WE'RE COMING HOME!

Dr. T stopped in today. She said that some of the results came back but they were waiting for something that they didn't think would be back until Friday, so we get to go home again.

On Monday we'll come back. They are going to put in a catheter for chemo, she'll have her first round of chemo and then come home. In four weeks she'll do her second round and then in another four weeks, they do a MRI to see if it shrunk enough. Depending on how much Dr. Bailey can get out, she may not neem more chemo.

Since we are coming home, we love to have visitors. We only ask that NO ONE is sick in anyway. No runny nose, cough, or sore throat. This will be most important when she starts chemo. Dr. T is supplying Jimmy, Mom and I with flu shots because we are around her all the time. Kayla and Austin already had theirs. So feel free to visit, just make sure you are healthy!

We are now just waiting for Dr. Bailey to come in and check her surgery scar and her whole. Then we're on our way.

I will still update daily with news about how she is feeling! Keep checking and Keep praying!

NEW PICTURES ARE IN THE PHOTO ALBUM!

Monday, November 1, 2004 5:35 PM CST

WE FINALLY MOVED! They finally found us a room on the regular peds floor!We are officially out of PICU! The peds floor is actually full! Must be that time of year.

Ashlyn came off her chest tube, IV and epidural around 11 today. She has been going all over since. For a few hours, she walked funny because of the epidural but she is ready to go now. She has the IV in her foot still because twice a day they need to do antibiotics, but she did so much running, they don't know if she trashed it or not.

Dr. T (oncologist) came in today and said the results could be back on Tuesday or Wednesday. As soon as they are in, we'll post them. It just depends on what happens with those!

Well, her dinner tray is here. I'll post again after we hear from the doctors! Thanks for checking on her!

Saturday, October 30, 2004 7:00 PM CDT

I decided to remove my last journal entry. The doctors don't keep the same story, so I'm just going to keep you updated on how she is doing, rather than what they say.

Everyday the have a different idea on it and what is going to happen. So, to make it easier on people NOT getting confused, she is better.

She was sitting up in her bed with the nurse looking at her scrapbook when Jimmy and I got back from dinner. (She loves to look at herself in her scrapbook!) She did get tired and fell asleep again. They weren't going to give her more morphine unless they needed to because it made her so tired. She isn't breathing as loud since they did a neb treatment and she is coughing more. So hopefully this pnemonia (can't spell) will pass her by.

Well, I am going to go back to her room. Since she won't be old enough to remember this ordeal (thank goodness) I am keeping her a journal just for her to have when she is older. I also am keeping any cards or letters that she gets. Her brother and sister and cousins drew some pictures, so they decorate her wall. There will be a HUGE section in her scrapbook on this.

Okay, I am going to stop now. Talk to you again soon. Thanks again for checking in on her!

Saturday, October 30, 2004 12:23 AM CDT

I know that I wrote earlier, but the doctor came in a little bit more information.

The pathologist here at Sioux Valley said that it is a mature tumor. (still neuroblastoma) But if the pathologist from the Mayo Clinic agrees and if it is mature enough, they'll go in and remove the tumor and possibly be able to skip the chemo.

We don't know if her lung partically collapsed in the night or not. She is having trouble taking deep breaths, so they are worried about pnemonia (can't spell!) She is taking very short little breaths and not the deep ones you should take after surgery.

But for sure she won't need a PICC line for chemo (if really needed) until Wednesday. The chest tube is huge and it makes her uncomfortable. I hate it.

My mom and Renee brought Travis and Austin today. We kind of thought that Travis would be okay with seeing Ashlyn. The nurses said it was okay for him to go and see. We tried to prepare him for the tubes and stuff but it wasn't enough. He walked into the room and cried. The nurses came in right away to talk to him and he got better. The respitory nurses came in and needed to "beat" on her chest. Travis went in and held her hand while they did it! He is such a good cousin. Austin didn't really care. He knew where all the toys are, so he has been busy.

The pediatic floor is having a Halloween Party today. They invited Travis and Austin to play the games and do the crafts. That will be fun for them. Renee brought Travis (well, Jimmy)the video game, so while my mom is sitting with Ashlyn, I am typing and Jimmy is playing the game.

I'll post again soon! Thanks eveyone for checking in!

Saturday, October 30, 2004 9:49 AM CDT

Well, she did pretty good through the night. The nurses in PICU didn't think it was a good idea for us to sleep in the room with her, so we were down the hall. I can admit that it wasn't easy for me. But, I did sleep pretty good.

Jimmy said Dr. Bailey (the surgeon) came in this morning. The chest tube will come out on Monday. He said unless Dr. T (the oncologist) wanted to start chemo before Wednesday, then the PICC line would be put in on Wednesday. Dr. Bailey got called out on a family emergency. He said it wouldn't matter about the chest tube anyway.

Jimmy is holding her right now. It is hard for her to take deep breaths. She makes short noisey ones. I am scared to hold her. The nurse last night said that moving can cause so much pain. But Ashlyn is glad her daddy is holding her.

Last night before we went to bed, she had another dose of morphine and they turned up her epidural. She was actually smiling and playing with her new musical lamb (thank you Crystal and Jesse!). She really likes it. It plays "Jesus Loves Me". It is so cute!

But, I am going to go and check on her. Thank you to all of you who check regularly on Ashlyn. We all appreciate it. We have a bumpy road a head of us, but in the long run it will be worth it. I just have to remind myself that she has to go through this to save her life!

Friday, October 29, 2004 1:54 PM CDT

It's me again today. They have her in the PICU now. She is coming in and out of it. But she looks so sad in the bed all alone. It just about breaks my heart.

The doctor said that the pathologist said that it is looking like neuroblastoma. NO definate answer yet. Dr. T says it's neuroblastoma, but we'll know for sure around Monday.

They had to put a chest tube in during sugery. Dr. Bailey (doing the surgery) said they couldn't get enough going through part of the rib cage, so he had to go through the chest. If it is for sure neuroblastoma, they will put a PICC line in for chemo treatments. They will do that MOnday or Tuesday and take out the chest tube then. She'll spend the next 48 hours (atleast) in PICU. They said she should sleep most of the day and night, so JImmy and I will stay in her regular room. I don't know how that will go, but we'll have to see.

We had a load of people up here today. My mom and brother were here, along with Jimmy's two brothers, two sisters, a nephew, and his parents. We're taking turns in the room with her. She is kind of whimpering and crying. But she is a trooper and is hanging in there.

If the doctors say anything else, I'll re-post again tonight. If not, I'll post when I hear something.

Thanks for the continuing prayers and thoughts!

Becky, Jimmy, Ashlyn and family

Friday, October 29, 2004 10:51 AM CDT

For all of you checking in, Ashlyn had a sugery today, despite the pink eye she developed. They are waiting for the pathologist to say that they have enough sample tissue. They only did a biopsy today. In a few days they determine if they want to do chemo for sure (thought they said yes yesterday) or if they just want to try and remove it. They are just concerend with blood loss.

She will be going to the PICU today. They put an epidural in to help control pain. I'll post again tonight and let you know what is going on.

Thank you again for your contiuned thoughts and prayers.

Thursday, October 28, 2004 10:58 PM CDT

The doctor didn't tell us a whole lot more today. Ashlyn is at stage 2A nueroblastoma. The doctor said that they would remove what they could of the tumor tomorrow morning.....MAYBE.

We cut off people this week, except for an oil change she had to join me on. I limited her contact to just Aunt 'Ne'Ne. But we got here tonight and she had a runny nose. About 10:00 we noticed that she had some "eye boogers" and her eye was watery and red. Then it started to swell a little. Dr. T (the oncologist) didn't know if Dr. Bailey (the surgeon) would do the surgery with this going on. He will be in first thing in the morning, so keep your fingers crossed.

Other news the doctor had said was that she would go through some chemotherapy. Probably 2 to 4 months worth. While that is going on, she will not be allowed around anyone with even a cold...(Iguess we ship the kids off???:) Her immune system will be down, but that should take care of it. They will know more when they run tests on the tumor.

We have decided to donate her tumor to research. HOpefully it will help some other children.

Thank you for the continuous prayers and positive thoughts. I have a new poem I need to add to the site, but I left it in the room and I won't be able to leave again once I am in there. So I will post it tomorrow. My friend, Shanna, wrote it just for Ashlyn - and it is awsome!

We'll keep you posted! Wish us luck!

Love ~ Jimmy, Becky, Ashlyn and family

Wednesday, October 27, 2004 4:46 PM CDT

It's 4:47 PM and we FINALLY heard from the doctor!

We will check in with Ashlyn to Sioux Valley tomorrow afternoon, about 3 PM. She was formally diagnosed with neuroblastoma. She will have surgery 9:30 AM on Friday. They are going to remove part of the tumor. The rest of the rumor will have to be taken care of by chemotherapy.

The doctor didn't want to give a whole lot of information over the phone. She had said I needed to "absorb" what she had already given me. We were hoping to for no chemo, but as long as it makes our baby healhty, that is all that matters.......right?

So, that is what is going on around here. Tomorrow night after Ashlyn goes to bed, I'll write again about what exactly is going on.

Keep up the wonderful prayers and happy thoughts!

Tuesday, October 26, 2004 11:53 PM CDT

HI there. It's almost Wednesday. I think that it will be that day that this nightmare settles in. I have been confusing myself. She has been home with us for a few days, so none of it has to be real yet.

I was sitting there on Thursday night. I didn't feel good. I just watched her run around the room. I kept thinking that I couldn't wait to get to sleep......because when I woke up, this nightmare would be over. I just wanted to pick her up and take her home. But that isn't a good idea. She can't get better by being at home. But they let us have a few days at home - and wow, none of it is real. The cards and balloons we get are just to get them, I don't know if it doesn't occur to me that they are because Ashlyn is sick - whether she looks it or not.

Tomorrow is the scary day, well, it's suppose to be anyway. We find out what exactly it is that we are dealing with. I am confident that it is the type that we prefer - though we'd rather have neither! I HATE the thought of taking her back to the hospital. She hates it there. She cries whenever someone comes near her. I want to cry, but I can't. She'll know when I am upset.

Wish us more luck for tomorrow. I don't know what it will bring or how I will feel. I'll be sure to post tomorrow night and let everyone know what is going on.

Thank you for your encouraging words, your cards, your balloons, but mostly for your prayers! Keep up the good work!

Monday, October 25, 2004 12:25 AM CDT

Thank you for visitng our page. And thanks to everyone who signed the guestbook with such encouraging words!

Ashlyn is doing pretty good. She loves being home. SInce we've been here, she follows Kayla everywhere! It's kind of cute how she chases her with her arms wide open. She is so happy to finally be here, it's so hard to think that in a few days we'll be headed back to the hospital....

Ashlyn has a "tennitive" surgery scheduled for Friday, the 29th. We don't know which yet. The test should be back in a few days. Regardless, she'll have some kind of surgery. It is possible for the day to change also, depending on is wrong and what we are going to do.

I have noticed that a lot of people have signed with "Allie's MSN Angels." I guess I am not familiar with that. So if someone could let me know, I would appreciate it.

I added photos to the VIEW PHOTOS link. They only let me put on three of them, so there are a few there to peek at.

Thanks for checking in. Feel free to sign the guestbook as many times as you would like. We check it often. And thank you for your prayers!

Friday, October 22, 2004 11:01 PM CDT

HI everyone! The Child Life Gals here at Sioux Valley gave me this idea and I love it! It is an easy way to keep everyone who cares informed! And it's easier than making 119 calls a day!

Today started a round of more tests. She had an ultrasound done on her heart this morning. They say it was to check that her heart is healthy and would be able to handle chemo.

Next she went in for a bone marrow aspiration. This test was to check for any cancer cells in her bone marrow.

Next she had a bone scan done. This checked her entire body for cancer cells.

We are happy to report that it came back that there are no other cancer cells in her body! The tumor itself covers 2/3 of the right side of her lung. It is located in the back side of her lung and is kind of entwined with her rib cage.

We are currently at a waiting point until Wednesday or Thursday next week. They sent a test to Rochester today, but it takes that long to process it.

The bone marrow aspiration told us that her cancer she has is in the NEUROBLASTOMA family. There are two types of which it could be. Type "A": they would go in right away and remove the entire tumor. They said this will take care of it and the chances of it coming back are less than 1%! TYPE "C": They would go in and take a small piece out and study it. They would need to determine what kind of chemo and meds would shrink it. After a few weeks of chemo, they go in and remove it. She would go for a few more weeks of chemo, a few years of testing, but still, less than 1% chance of it coming back. The overall survival rate is 85-95%.

Since the test won't be back until Wednesday or Thrusday, we will be going home tomorrow afternoon. They didn't see the sense in keeping us for no reason. They will call when it comes in and we'll be right back here to get started.

In the mean time, we aren't allowed to have any guests. They are very concerned with her getting a cold or anything. It will prolong the surgery of any kind and make her very sick. We don't think Kayla will be going to school this week, but that isn't final just yet.

Overall, Ashlyn looks great. She runs and plays and laughs just like she has any other day! Only, now she gets pretty wheezy when she runs so much!

The doctors told us that someone was watching over us. Her cancer was found with out a single symptom. They say that it is extrememly rare to find anything with an x-ray. So we have Dr. Heather to thank for sending us when she did!

Another place for concern lies with Kayla and Austin. Kayla is a smart kid and I was worried to what she might have heard in the last 24 hours. We had a Child Life Specialist come and talk to her today. Kayla is familiar with the word CANCER, because Lucky, our dog, died of cancer last October. Wendy, CLS, talked and played medical play with the kids today. She was suprised by how much Kayla did understand. But, Kayla handled all news very well and asks questions when she has them. Austin on the other hand, just played with Kayla and that was about it. He is still at the age that he is in his own little world!

Thank you for checking in on us. Tomorrow when we get home, I am going to download some pictures. There are so many things to tell you guys. If you have questions, please ask! I'll do my best to answer them.

This web page will hopefully be updated every few days. Sometimes it may be just everyday, so check in when you can!

Click here to go back to the main page.

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