April 30, 2010

This morning I worked again at the GES Bookfair. I'm so glad to be back and volunteering at the school. Tracy picked me up and we had lunch together. Later in the afternoon, I had a little time to burn before school let out, so I decided to take a walk. It was really windy but still got close to three miles in! Felt great!! By this time I needed to go into the school and help Trystan pack up to leave. Alyssa had practice after school for the Spring Concert; therefore, Trystan and I burned up some time at the bookfair while we waited for her to get done. After Alyssa was finished with practice we came home for dinner and had plenty of time for the girls to play together.

Thank you God for the many shower of blessings you continue to bring to our family!

April 29, 2010

It was a busy day for the Watson's today. Took the girls to school this morning and I stayed and worked the bookfair in the library until lunch. Came home, did some laundry, and got things together for this evening. Picked up the girls from school and came straight home to do homework for about an hour. It was then time to run Alyssa back into town for dance. Once dance was over, we quickly ate a little something for dinner, and then had to run to the GES Art Show at the Bradford Room. Alyssa and Kortnie sang a duet at the Art Show. They did an AWESOME job. We are so proud of the job they did!

April 28, 2010

This mornig Tracy, Trystan, and myself took Alyssa to school. The three of us then headed to St. Louis for an appointment with Trystan's surgeon. She first had to have x-rays done we then were to see the doctor. The x-rays must have been good because we were then sent back to the casting room to have her cast removed so that the doctor could look at it. The cast came off and they then had to take the tape off where the stitches were to check for any infection. The cast coming off made her laugh so hard! The tape coming off made her extremely mad and cried so hard, poor thing. :( Trystan is still non-weight bearing at least until the next appointment. Next appointment is in six weeks. We were then told we had to go to another office to have a mold done of her leg for a custom brace to fit her. This brace will not be done for about a week. So we will have to go back down there to have it fitted to be sure it fits. Continuing to thank God for all of the good things He does.

April 27, 2010

This morning after dropping the girls off and getting Trystan settled into her classroom, I headed down to the library to help out with the bookfair. Really didn't think that the bookfair would be as busy as it was during the school day. Wow! It was very surprising. Stayed and helped out until lunchtime. I then dropped by Trystan's room to check on her before I headed home to get some more cleaning done. When I got home from picking the girls up from school, I got them started on their homework then went up to change clothes. It was the evening for Tracy and I to go to Adam Carter's visitation in Decatur, IL. Doris came to the house from 4-7 then my mome came from 7 until we got home to watch the girls so we could go. We arrived at the visitation at about 5:50 p.m. There were hundreds of people there to pay their respects. It took a while to get through the line but we are glad we made the drive up. We were back in the car about 8:30 pm and on our way home. Please continue to pray for the Carter family as they deal with the death of their son/brother.

April 26, 2010

Today is the start of another week at school for the girls! Every schoolday morning I take Trystan to her classroom and help her to unload her things and get settled. I stuck around and helped out putting some booklets together for the first grade pod. Once I finished that I was going to help take Trystan out to the playground and then get her to the lunchroom. She decided that I didn't need to stay and help her! She wanted the teachers and Olivia to help her. Therefore, I came home and was able to clean a little and get some laundry done before I had to run back in to get the girls from school. Trystan continues to amaze us at how quickly and strong she really is. Please continue to pray for Trystan and her academics and for Alyssa as she still adjusts to the way life is for us now.

April 25, 2010

This morning we went to church. My brother and his family joined us at church today. So glad they were able to come! After church we came home and spent the afternoon inside relaxing. The girls played together for the longest time with playdough.

Our friend Adam Carter lost his battle to cancer late Friday night. Please pray for his family as they prepare for his funeral this week.

April 24, 2010

This morning we had to rise extra early and head over to the Missouri side for the Friends of Kids with Cancer Walk/Run. We arrived about 8:15 am, got our t-shirts, and breakfast. They had a few games set up for the kids to play as well. While we were waiting we met Tom O'Neal from Fox 2. He was super nice and took the time to talk to my kids. A little after 9 am they started the run. Carrie did the 5k and did super! The walk started about 15 min after the run. It was a one mile walk. What I thought would be a pretty flat walk/run route ended up being extremely hilly! Oh well, we still had a GREAT time! After the walk they had some music to dance to. I got Trystan up out of her wheelchair and held her and we danced. She smiled so big and laughed so hard! They then had some attendance prizes and awards for the 5k. Teresa Woodard from Fox 2 then closed the ceremonies. After she did that it was time to leave, we were walking back to our car when Alyssa said, "Mom, can't we stop and say something to Teresa Woodard before we leave? I love watching her on tv!" Of course I said yes! Teresa was nice enough to take time to not only talk to Trystan but asked her if she could sign her cast! While she was signing her cast, her cameraman was taping Trystan. Pretty cool day! And by the way, God was nice enough to hold off the rain and storms until it was over and we were home.

We tuned into the 9 pm news and sure enough, Trystan was on there at the end of the story they did on the Walk/Run. Super Cool!

April 23, 2010

Thank goodness it's Friday! So proud of Trystan, she made her first entire week of full days at school. Think she's pretty much ready to venture school by herself. I just worry about certain parts of the day when she's more likely to get hurt or needs extra assistance. We are supposed to have a meeting with the school about the needs of Trystan at the beginning of May.

April 22, 2010

The girls did the Juvinale Diabetes Walk at school today. They had to walk/run laps around the playground. I pushed Trystan and sometimes she made run! It was a little hot out this afternoon!! Trystan did help me out by using her arms by pumping the wheels on her chair. She continues to do more for herself everyday at school. I continue to be amazed! After school Alyssa had practice for the Spring Concert, then had dance. After dance we grabbed some dinner and went back to the school for the book fair. The girls chose some books and we finally got home at 8 p.m. Of course, it was then time for homework! I was so proud of my girls. They didn't horse around and got all of their homework done by 8:45! I think that's a world record for both of them! =) The girls gave us no grief when it was time for bed. They were both deffinately tired from their long day.

Continuing to praise and thank God for showers of blessings and healing He continues to send!

April 21, 2010

The School Liaison from St. Louis Children's Hospital came to Greenville Elementary School today. The Liaison explained to the first graders about Trystan and her cancer. The kids were then able to ask questions and Trystan, myself and the liaison answered their questions. Trystan did a great job answering most of the questions herself!

April 20, 2010

This morning I took both the girls to school. Trystan again stayed all day. She is becoming more self-confident everyday. She continues to amaze me at the amount of determination and strength she has. By the end of school days she is pooped! It is a bit of a struggle for homework, but we get thru it eventually. Academically, I still think she is a bit behind the rest of the students on some things but continues to try her hardest. Trystan is continuing to make new friends. Tomorrow the school liason from Children's Hospital is scheduled to come in and speak with the 1st graders. Praying that everything goes ok with that.

April 19, 2010

Trystan made it all day again at school! She is so strong and such an inspiration to us. On another positive note, after school I was looking at a SuperSibs newsletter that was sent to Alyssa, when lo and behold I saw Alyssa's picture! This newsletter is shared nationwide with other siblings of kids with cancer. The picture was of Alyssa with her SuperSib's cake at Trystan's post-chemo party. They used her as an example of how to keep your SuperSib involved in the patients accomplishments as well! We are so proud of both our kiddos. They continue to inspire us daily. Thank you God for continuing to send your blessings.

April 18, 2010

This morning the four of us went to church. Tracy spoke at church this morning. He talked about how the past year has affected us and how we've grown closer to God and how He has walked us through our ups and downs. Tracy did an EXCELLENT job speaking to the congregation. I was happy that my parents, Kirby, and Carrie were able to come to the service as well to hear this message.

Trystan seems to be growing stronger everyday and eating very well also. She continues to be excited about going to school. How long will this continue for us? Trystan will be going back to see the surgeon on April 28th. Just ten short days away!

April 17, 2010

Today the girls wanted to go and spend the last bit of gift cards they had. So we headed to Kohl's to spend the Kohl's Cash I had from a couple of weeks ago. Ended up shopping for summer clothes for the girls for our Make-A-Wish Trip we are hoping to go in May. As long as Trystan has her cast off in a couple of weeks we will be going! :) After Kohl's we went to Wal-Mart so the girls could use their gift cards. They were so happy to be able to use the rest of their money! After going to those two places we came home and spent the rest of the evening at home. It was another GREAT day! Thanks be to God for all of the wonderful things He continues to do for us!

April 16, 2010

This morning I took Alyssa to school and stayed with her to go on a field trip with her. Trystan stayed at home with daddy until lunchtime, then went to Grandma Watson's house because Tracy had a meeting in St. Louis.

The Challenger Learning Center was very cool not only did Alyssa learn alot but I did as well. Not only was it very educational for the kiddos but a whole lot of fun! Got back to the school right at the end of the day. Then Alyssa and I headed to Grandma's house to get Trystan. Trystan, of course, wasn't at all happy to see us because she wanted more time with Grandma! We ended up staying there until it was dinner time the girls played and I visited with Doris. We finally arrived home about 7:30 p.m.

We weren't home very long before we got a surprise visit from friends! We all sat out on the front porch and talked while the kids played. Sitting there and I felt like I had a hair tickling my face and went to brush my cheek on my shoulder when I felt a sting on my cheek! Ouch!! I had gotten stung by a wasp! It was about 8:15 p.m. and less than 60 degrees outside! We couldn't believe that there was an active wasp out. Other than that bit of excitement, the girls had a great time today. That's really all that matters right?

April 15, 2010

Today was a great day! Trystan made it the entire day at school today and had a great time as well. She took her first AR test and received her first 100%! Both girls had spelling tests today and both received 100%! We are so very proud of them. With both of these achievements, Trystan's had a boost of confidence. She also seems to be making new friends as well.

Please pray for the siblings of kids with cancer. They are the forgotten victims.

April 14, 2010

This morning I took the girls to school and again stayed to make sure that Trystan did o.k. I almost think that this may be harder for me than for her. But, she is always turning around in class to be sure that I am still somewhere in the room where she can see me. After being together almost every minute of the day for the last year, we are both adjusting to getting used to being apart. Trystan did not make it through the whole day today, but did very well. She made it until 12:30 p.m. just after lunchtime. Maybe tomorrow will be better. She seems to be doing pretty good with the kids in her class. Most of the kids in her class this year were not in her class last year. Therefore, it's almost like she's the "new kid" at school. Well, almost. :)

I have great news! The young man I've been asking everyone to pray for, Adam Carter, received his Make-A-Wish this evening even though he is very weak. He got a special meet and greet with the Cardinal Baseball Players. He received an outpouring of gifts from the players. One gave him his bat he used and Albert Pujols gave him his batting gloves! He also went up into the booth with Dan M. Praise the Lord! I'm so glad God gave him enough strength to make the trip from Decatur to St. Louis for his Make-A-Wish! Please continue to pray for Adam.

April 13, 2010

This morning I took both girls to school. The plan for Trystan was to go this morning until lunchtime. To my surprise she stayed the entire day! She did great! We are thanking God everyday for the strength he continues to give everyone in our family.

Also, please continue to pray for Adam Carter. Things have progressively gotten worse and it doesn't look like he will be able to make the trip to St. Louis for his Make-A-Wish to meet the Cardinals. Pray not only for Adam but for his parents Tim and Shannon and big sister Meagan.

April 12, 2010

Today was a BIG day for Trystan today. She started back to school today! We decided to start her out going 1/2 days until we know for sure that she's strong enough to endure full days. She'll hopefully only have to do the 1/2 days for a week or two. I took her to school after lunch today. She did totally awesome. She was a bit nervous at first. I think it was because she wasn't sure how the kids would react to her and also that she was afraid they would get in her face and such. But, I was very happy with how her class welcomed her. I also think that it has helped with her doing the SKYPING so the kids weren't quite as surprised to see her with little hair, etc.

She is so looking forward to going back tomorrow! But instead of going in the afternoon, we're going to go in the morning. I think we are planning to do a few afternoons and a couple of mornings throughout the week. Please continue to pray for courage and confidence for Trystan as she starts a new chapter in her life returning to school and being accepted by her fellow classmates.

April 11, 2010

This morning we went to church as a family. So glad we don't have to worry as much about counts and germs. It is still a worry but not as much as before. After church we came home and spent the rest of the day at home. Enjoyed relaxing with the family and later I went for a walk while Alyssa rode her bike. When we were back from the walk, I fixed dinner and the girls played on the front porch together. Thank you God for the beautiful weather you've been giving us!

April 10, 2010

Today marks another one year anniversary for our family. One year ago today Trystan had her biopsy done on her leg. So glad she's cancer free. Praising God everyday for that! Still praying that her leg heals correctly and she is able to begin walking soon.

We had another great day here at the Watson house. Tracy went and got the camper out of storage. Now the girls think that we should be camping right away. But there is always a lot of cleaning to do before we can go camping in it. Tracy and Alyssa painted the front porch rails. They did a great job! While they were painting, I stayed inside with Trystan to keep her busy. We played Go Fish and UNO. Tied at Go Fish and I was able to pull out one win of UNO to her four wins of course! We ended the evening by watching a movie together as a family.

Please continue to pray for our fellow cancer patient, Adam Carter. He has had a lot of fluid drained off his lungs over the past day. Pray that he will get to feeling better and build his strength up for his Make-A-Wish that is to be granted the upcoming week. He is supposed to have a meet and greet with the St. Louis Cardinals and much more on Wednesday! Adam is a super BIG Cardinal fan. :)

April 9, 2010

After I dropped Alyssa off at school this morning I came home and Trystan and I did her schoolwork. Once her schoolwork was finished she and I ran to Highland to run some errands. Then had lunch with Grandma Watson. When it was time to pick up Alyssa from school we parked the car over by Sonrise and I pushed Trystan in her wheelchair over to the school. The three of us then walked back to the car together and came home. On Monday we are hoping for Trystan to start going back to school 1/2 days! Please pray that she is able to handle going back both physically and emotionally. As always we appreciate your continued thoughts and prayers. God is so good!

April 8, 2010

It was back to the grind for the girls today. Alyssa back to school and school work here at home for Trystan. Nothing much more to report today. Love these uneventful days!

April 7, 2010

Stayed home with the girls today. The girls played all day together. Thank goodness on Monday we rented movies because we watched some of those today. Had a little bit of damage from the storm today. Lost a tree in the yard and a few things from the yard flew down the back hill behind the house.

Tomorrow it's back to reality for the girls! Alyssa goes back to school and Trystan will be skyping. We are hoping to send her to school starting next week. Only sending her back 1/2 days to start with. Her energy level seems to grow a little everyday. Three weeks from today we will find out if Trystan gets her cast off and if we will be able to go on her Make-a-Wish trip.

April 6, 2010

Today the girls and I spent the day shopping! They still had gift crads to use and what better day to spend them than today! We started by going to the Fairview Heights Fazzoli's for lunch. Once we were finished eating we went to the Justice store outside the mall. The girls each got an outfit with their gift cards. We then headed to the mall to shop at Claires. Alyssa bought some hair bands and Trystan got a package of different lip glosses. The girls also got a pair of fashion gloves, black and blingy! From Claires we headed to Toys R Us. Friends of Kids with Cancer had given us $200 worth of gift cards. They each got dolls, a secret password journal, Barbie purse with accessories, and an innercom set to talk back and forth in their rooms. The original plan was to stop at Wal-Mart on the way home because they had gift cards for there as well. But, Trystan had gotten really tired, so we decided to go home. But of course, I had to stop with them for a DQ treat on the way home. Yummy!! After our snack we stopped by my mom's house, then came home. When we got home Trystan broke out in hives on her face, arm, leg, and sneezing. Not sure if it was Tilly or something else. Started by giving her Bendryl and giving her a bath. It didn't work fast enough, so we gave her her daily dose of Zyrtek and Singulair and later a Pepsid tablet. It finally started to fade and was giving her some relief. After dinner they opened all of their items they got on their shopping spree and played almost until bed! Minus the hives, it was a GREAT day!!!

April 5, 2010

Nothing much to report today. Stayed home with the girls today and they played all day together. This evening it was off to dance with Alyssa. While Alyssa was in dance, Trystan and I stopped by the video store to rent a couple of dvds and then went for a little walk to enjoy the beautiful weather.

We are thanking God everyday for our healthy kids. Praying that there aren't any setbacks with Trystan's leg or any relapses.

April 4, 2010

Happy Easter Everyone!



Woke up this morning to eggs hidden throughout the house. The girls were super excited to hunt the eggs! We all then got ready and headed out the door for church. After church we had lunch with the Watson side. We went to Powhatton in Pocahontas. Once we are finished eating we came home, but just for a short time. It was off to my sister's house for the Rieke side. The kids hunted eggs and we ate dinner.

This Easter we have so much to be thankful for. Praising God for having a cancer-free daughter this year.

April 3, 2010

One year ago today I took Trystan to see Dr. Borwick because she was having terrible leg pain. Of course we were only thinking it was a pulled muscle, charlie horse, or at the worse a broken bone. The doctor sent us over to Greenville Regional Hospital for blood work and x-rays. Only to later get a call from her to send us over to Cardinal Glennon ER where they told us Trystan had a tumor on her tibia. Our world was turned upside down and inside out and our lives changed forever! But through the power of God we've made it to today and Trystan is cancer free. Yes, she isn't walking yet, but she will. God has been so good and continues to be, showing us mercy and giving us strength when we needed it the most. Through our experiences with Trystan He has brought so many people closer to Him, and we are very thankful for that. We pray that through this trial in our lives we can be a help to other families going through similar experiences.


Late this morning the four of us left the house and headed for Children's Hospital. But today it wasn't for Trystan. The girls had made some cards and gotten a few small gifts for a fellow cancer patient and her big brother. She will not be home for Easter so the girls wanted to bring a little Easter to them. We couldn't bring it to Gracie personally but her mom met us down in the cafeteria and we visited with her for a bit and gave her the gift. When praying for Trystan and our family, please remember Gracie and her family.


Once home from the hospital I hard boiled some eggs for the girls to dye. The eggs are finished being dyed and ready for the Easter Bunny to hide tomorrow morning.

April 2, 2010

This morning I woke up and figured I had better get the girls shopping today for their Easter outfits! I had told them that they didn't have to get dresses that pant/capri outfits would be great too! Trystan said right away that she wanted dress capris and Alyssa wasn't sure yet. Took them to Edwardsville Kohl's and they both ended up getting dresses and new shoes! I had gotten a 15% off coupon in the mail, plus the dresses were on SALE! Bargain shopping!!

Came home and the girls played outside on the front porch together. Soon after that I went for a walk/run and Alyssa rode her bike along side. Trystan stayed home with Tracy and watched a movie while we were gone.

Thank you God for the beautiful weather and always providing for our needs!

April 1, 2010

Took the girls to the St. Louis Zoo today with Aunt Lori and Cadence. The girls had a great time. The weather was GREAT and the girls were extremely well behaved. Both make for a very enjoyable day! Remembered to put sunscreen on both girls, but forgot myself. Now I'm sunbured. Oh well, still had a really good time! Were home by 4:15 p.m. Just enough time for Alyssa to get her clothes changed and head into town for dance.

Please continue to pray for our friend's Adam Carter and Grace Hassard. Adam had an appointment yesterday and didn't get the news they were expecting. Please pray for comfort for Adam and his family. Grace is going in for surgery tomorrow to have another shunt put in. Pray for a safe, successful surgery and family support.