My Dad's Blog

As many of you know, my father went to Germany 6 months ago for an experimental stem cell treatment for his MSA (multiple system atrophy). He's been recording the experience and outcome every two weeks or so on his blog, and just posted a 6-month update. This update is key because often the full effects of the treatment only become evident around the 6 month mark.

His blog is at http://msajourney.blogspot.com/

Some encouraging signs, some unwanted symptom progression, and some "holding steady." I'll take it.

Love you Dad.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Happy St. Patrick's Day from our leprechaun. I take no responsibility for this outfit. It was all her father.

The Donovans

They say everyone's Irish on St. Patrick's Day, but in honor of the real Irish folks in my family tree, herewith, the Donovans:

Great Grandpa Donovan, Grandma, Great Grandma (Anna) Donovan (probably not long before she died), Aunt Carol.

Grandma and Aunt Carol. I love the shoes.

Great Grandma (Seddie) and Great Grandpa Donovan.

Aunt Sara, who may or may not have been genetically Irish but who certainly looked it. I always think of her at this time of year especially.

Claire's Latest Mosaics

I commissioned this as a birthday present for Lee. It's been in my kitchen for almost a year, and I don't want to part with it.

For Claire and Michael's brother John, a Chicago firefighter:

Just Wondering

Lily: Mommy, when's April Fool's Day?
Mommy: April 1. Why?
Lily: Just wondering.

Long pause.

Lily: Mommy, does your toothbrush look the same as Daddy's toothbrush?
Mommy: Yes. Why?
Lily: Just wondering. When's April Fool's Day again?

It's Still Winter

Not a hint of spring in the air yet, but at least the park is no longer under feet of snow.

Lily and Sara

Lily, Sara, Gina and Ethan

I am the Meanest. Mommy. Ever.

Carter Library

I went to the Carter Library for work last week. President Carter gave us a one-hour private tour of the newly-renovated museum. Roslyn Carter came along too. I love my job!