Day 172

Just as he has every day since being discharged Friday, Benjamin woke up feeling nauseous. But for the second day in a row, he has told me that he “smells the hospital” in the morning. His nausea is so closely related to his olfactory and emotional triggers. Example: I started the boys on a fun summer math program today, so they don’t forget everything they learned last year. I told Banyan that if he keeps his skills sharpened during the summer, he’d be “sailing through” the beginning of sixth grade. Instead of sailing, Benjamin heard saline. I gave him Kytril, and it worked. But I wonder how long lasting these physical memories will be.

Sarasota is home to a world class art museum in The Ringling, and admission is free on Mondays. We decided to pack a picnic and a friend, and spend the afternoon at the museum, and on its gorgeous grounds. It was lovely. Banyan really impressed me with his retention of mythological knowledge as we walked through the galleries. He stuck close to Benjamin, explaining nuances I never would have picked up on.

The playground at The Ringling is a special treat. It is fun, modern, and creative. Most importantly, we know that Benjamin isn’t severely neutropenic right now. I watched for sneezers and we sanitized frequently, and they had a great time. I snapped a photo as Benji was coming down the fastest slide in town. He’s wanted to play there for so long.

When we got home, I received a visit from a dear friend, while Benjamin received an amazing package from The Max Love Project. Max Love is “a nonprofit organization helping Super Kids thrive against the odds with anticancer nutrition, integrative medicine and essential research.” The package was so sweet and well thought out, and focused heavily on children becoming educated about nutrition. It’s interesting that we received this today, after I stayed up late last night meal planning. It feels good to recommit to optimal health now that our feet are firmly planted in home soil. Tonight’s dinner was from “The Cancer Fighting Kitchen” cookbook, and it was delicious.

I ended the day with a walk over the Ringling Bridge, and watched three dolphins swim into the spectacular sunset. When I came home, I read Benjamin two chapters of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory–our latest Roald Dahl masterpiece–and listened to the rain as he fell asleep. It’s so good to be home.

One thought on “Day 172

  1. I am just amazed at all the wonderful things you do with your children.

    Love,
    Sonia

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