Friday Things #512

1. You may remember that Dominic had routine scans done in New York a few weeks ago, which came back clean. He was also scheduled to have a bone marrow biopsy, but he tested positive for Covid while we were there, so he was unable to be sedated, and it had to be rescheduled. We went back to NY for a day last week to have it done, and Dominic’s oncologist called us this week to let us know that the biopsy came back completely clear and that Dominic’s central line can now be removed. He (well, all of us!) has been waiting for this news for so long… Dominic does not have a port that sits under the skin; he has a central line that comes out of his chest, with two tubes extending from it. It has a sterile dressing that must be changed weekly (and cannot get wet), and the lines must be flushed a few times a week. Finding out that he can have this removed and have the freedom to swim, shower, play sports, etc. was THE BEST news.
2. The kids had a long weekend last weekend, and we packed a lot of fun into it! On Saturday, we took the kids to watch the Penguins practice, which was really just as much for me and my husband because we got to see a previous player (Jaromir Jagr) skate with the team because he was having his jersey retired over the weekend.

3. On Sunday, we finally celebrated Joseph’s birthday with our extended family (hooray for everyone finally being healthy!). How did this kid get so grown-up looking?! (He requested my father-in-law’s cherry pie instead of cake; he has good taste!)

4. And on Monday, we took the kids to the auto show at the convention center. I think they love sitting inside the cars more than we do! I promptly fell asleep on the couch Monday night as soon as the kids went to bed ๐
Save This Recipe

5. I think I’ve tried every single protein bar over the last couple of years because I was looking for something I could throw in my purse or bag and have for appointments, at the hospital, traveling, etc. I finally discovered Built Bars and I LOVE them. I especially love the “puff” versions, which have a marshmallow-y consistency. They are packed with protein but not very much fat or sugar; my favorite flavor is cookie dough chunk puff.
6. I saw someone on Instagram mention how they always bake a special treat on Fridays to enjoy after the kids get home from school. I love this idea! I may need to start with a batch of classic chocolate chip cookies. Do you do this? What are your favorite things to make?
7. So many great nuggets in here >> The Joys of Getting Organized
8. I’m still reading Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow… I’m hoping I’ll finish it over the weekend so I can start The Women (Kristin Hannah’s newest book)!
9. I loved this article; it really encompasses everything I loved about watching TGIF as a kid >> The Wholesome Era of 90’s TGIF Sitcoms
10. TGIF!ย Love these two snuggle bugs ๐๐ฉท




The best news for your family about Dominic! He continues to be in my prayers every single day. God is good! Happy birthday to Joseph too!
Joseph’s last single-digit birthday??!! How is that even possible?
I am happy to hear your family’s good news! I am thanking God for Dominic’s great report. He is a real trooper! I really enjoy your blog and seeing the children grow up. You are a blessing!
Hooray for Domnic’s wonderful news! That is really a huge step for all of you, how incredible. God is with all of you.
That is the most wonderful news about Dominicโบ๏ธ and for the rest of the family. God had him the whole time and will continue to keep him.
Essa รฉ uma notรญcia maravilhosa sobre Dominic ! Graรงas a Deus!
Deus abenรงoe toda sua famรญlia !
So happy to hear Dominic is doing well! ย Thatโs amazing news!!
I’ve been following you since before you were married and I’m so happy for the news about Dominick. I feel you are all part of my family.
Thank you so much for sharing the wonderful news about Dominic! God is so good, continued blessings to you and your family!!
So happy to hear the good news about Dominic! Happy Birthday to Joseph too! Your kids are growing up so fast! Ours are all grown, but we always had some sort of dessert to celebrate every school milestone. With 3 at all different stages, there was always something to celebrate. Your chocolate chip cookies are a great way to celebrate Fridays!
Michelle, Praise the Lord with answered prayers and blessings for Dominic and your beautiful family!๐โค๏ธ
Such wonderful news for Dominic!!God is great.
Now on to more events ๐ฅฐ
Am so happy to hear Dominic’s good results. God was watching over the family. Now you can relax and have more family happy times. You are good parents. I sometimes wonder where the strength comes from in parents when going through something like this. God bless you all.
That pie looked awfully good. In my dreams, was having a piece too.
Michelle – I remember the day our boy had clean scans and was allowed to get his central line removed (he was diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma at age 7)…it was more than 20 years ago! ย He is now 29 years old and getting married in less than 2 weeks. ย The difficult memories will fade for you, but sometimes you may cry just because it’s over! ย I am trying to decide what song to have for the mother and groom dance and have shed many tears! ย So happy for your family!!