Hey family & friends (and maybe a nosy old nemesis):

It's been a bit of a rollercoaster ride in recent weeks. I enjoyed a clear MRI in January and a warm vacation with friends. February brought a CT scan with suspicious lymph nodes & a biopsy in my left armpit (formerly known as the good side) that confirmed a new metastasis. BOOOOOOOO! But there was also a relaxing Montana hot spring road trip with sister Heidi. (I am very, very relieved to be driving again!) The result of another brain MRI last week was to repeat at a sooner interval in case the stuff that is probably aftereffects of the cyber knife is not in fact radiation leftovers. (I've also come to learn that oncologists often disagree with radiologists, but in the era of electronic medical charts, I get access to the doomsday radiologists' thoughts first. Thus amplifying the rollercoaster ride!) We also learned that proton radiation is an actual treatment but not one fit for me and, disappointingly, isn't administered by Ghostbusters. The fatigue and irritability from last year's brain events persist, but I am generally feeling pretty good otherwise.  

Current big plans include (1) a trip next week to the Dana Farber Cancer Institute to see an expert on metastatic breast cancer involving the brain (Nate will join me, and I've insisted on seeing Acadia National Park while we're "in the neighborhood"), (2) spring break with the kiddos back to a familiar resort in Cancun, and (3) probably radiation to that armpit spot unless the advice from Boston or an upcoming PET scan cause a diversion. 

Current small plans include (1) more jigsaw puzzles, (2) more Brooklyn 99 binges & (3) more afternoon naps in sunny spots with the cats.

Special shoutout to those women who are such good listeners and company on walks, pool jogs, movie matinees, yoga, etc.: you know who you are! 

Second special shoutout to everyone who has and will help with Hank & Chuck during appointments and tournaments and snowstorms and all the challenges that come our way. 

Third special shoutout to those who have made this Boston trip possible, particularly our parents & Monica who is a logistics wizard and would be the champion if there was a Supermarket Sweep type gameshow but for travel planning.  

Final special shoutout to Will & Andria: we'll be thinking about you two lovebirds while watching the eclipse from Acadia!