Same old, Same old

 I have updated because there really isn't much to say....

Alex is completely thriving at Dallas Baptist University. It brings me so much joy to see him really enjoying this stage of life! He has made such great friends, has connected with many of his professors and continues to enjoy student life. He is attending activities and making strong friendships, while also truly soaking in the experience of learning. I always knew he loved to learn and really dive into things, but this semester it is so apparent. He wants to ask hard questions, discuss philosophy and theology and really understand the work he is presented. He has found his footing and he is no longer calling to run things by me or asking me to help him with how to tackle assignments. When I talk to him now it is for him to tell me what he has learned or done with his friends. Every moment of this is such an unexpected gift. For so many years we lived hospital admission to admission always waiting for the next crisis, for people who haven't lived this complex life-threatening medical life I can't explain the stress and fear that underlies every moment, every activity and every decision. To see him excelling and having a "normal" life is so much more than I ever hoped or dreamed was possible. In true Alex style, he once again decided to apply for a living learning community for his housing next year. Following his application and interview he was once again accepted. So he will stay in the same area next year. 

Maddy Moo is also doing pretty well. This past few months we have seen a growth and maturity in her that is new. She is becoming more and more independent and really doing well in school, her therapies and of course her dancing and riding. Because of her disabilities school doesn't come super easy for her, but she is so determined and such a hard work that she overcomes so much. Her schedule keeps me hopping she has tutoring twice a week, auditory rehab weekly, ballet, tap and art along with riding three days a week and school and doctors appointments. We spend a lot of time on the road and it is fun for us to listen to music together or have conversations during this one on one time. We are gearing up for another horse show next week. Her and PD have such a special bond and I have loved to watch her find some assertiveness to really take charge. She continues to work on finding her voice and letting us know when something is bothering her physically or emotionally, but several times lately she has done just that. I love to see her personality come through at the barn and at dance as she feels so comfortable with the coaches, teachers, friends and volunteers who love her dearly and she trusts. She will never be as chatty and outgoing as Alex and I, but I love to see her engage and chat with the people she loves and trusts. 

The kids and I had to make a trip to Houston over Spring Break. Maddy is still having some health issues that we are trying to sort out and Alex needed to see the team that controls his research medication. Unfortunately, one of Maddy's appointments was not scheduled correctly and a few more doctors need to see the kids so we will head back over the summer for several more appointments and tests. We did complete a sleep study with Maddy, but I do not have results yet. She was a rockstar and did a great job keeping her anxiety in check while getting everything hooked up!

Thank you to everyone who has reached out to check on me or let me know they are thinking of me. I have had quite a few more appointments and more testing and we are working on coming up with answers and a treatment plan, but unfortunately it is not fast moving in the adult medical world. I will see my PCP and the ENT this week to determine if we will move forward with surgery to remove one half of my thyroid and I have some more testing scheduled as well. Thank you for continuing to pray for me as I am continuing to lose weight and struggle with nausea and pain.

Mimi is flying in this week to visit Alex, watch Maddy's horse show and spend Easter with us. We are excited to see her and can't wait to give her big hugs!

Thank you to everyone who continues to walk this journey with us. We are so grateful for friends and family who walk beside us through both joyful days and days that are a bit more of a struggle. I cannot imagine this life without so many who have blessed us with their love over the years. What an amazing gift!

Ali