update

Reuben's oncologist called last night with his pathology results and we have decisions to make. The tumor/healthy cells margins were there (Hallelujah!), but very slim (1 mm) near his major nerves, and that is apparently too close for comfort, so amputation and growth-stopping local radiation are not yet off the table. Consultations and such for the next week. It's complicated, and the Thursday afternoon solid tumor conference at CHOP was "extraordinarily conflicted" about what to do. So my good folks there will ask everyone they know, which will luckily include the other best-in-the-field sorts and hopefully the path will be clear. That is always my prayer: "Heavenly Father, please make our decisions clear. Please help me feel peaceful." I'm not honestly sure how much the heavens intercede in our physical battles (though I add that, too: "Lord, this is a good little boy, a joyful little boy, and keeping him around will be a good thing for your world."), but I know the strength I get in my spiritual ones. Thanks for including us in your own supplications. It means the world to me.

And a must-share: I got as far as tracing a pattern for a kimono top for my post-surgery boy, but Sally and Stephanie got much farther, much quicker, and since each got a couple of days wear (plus Sally's is reversible), I was able to get through the heavy-dressing days in style and without laundry. Thank you, angels who sew!I love the new Steffistuff labels, by the way (and check out the cute new playsets she's come up with lately in her etsy shop; we are definitely doing Christmas projects together this year!). Oh, etsy, I miss you...