Hi!

If those of you so inclined could please add my Mom, Dorothy Stavis, to your
prayer list, it would be very appreciated. Please pray for an accurate
diagnosis and full recovery.

Mom is back in the hospital with pancreatitis. She gets this about every 5
months. It's been going on for two and a half years, now. Her previous
doctor would just stabilize her and then discharge. No looking into the
cause.

Uncle (the PedRD) thought it might be her methotrexate (it's a rare side
effect). But it behaves just like whatever made my sister's and my doctor
decide it was gall bladder problems. Sis and I both had out gall bladders
out and never had another attack. Sis will try and get hold of the Resident
on duty tomorrow and try to get him/her to pay attention to the family
history part.

OK - sulk time - It's my birthday today. 45th. On the downward slope. Mom
actually called yesterday after she was admitted to wish me an early
birthday. Older Sis (in Denver) apologized for not calling (as I had called
her) but still remembered. Younger sister, living just 20 minutes away,
didn't remember hasn't called any of us to ask about Mom.

Celebrations were low key but wonderful. I cooked my favorite (splurged on
1/2 pound of veal to make parmagiana). Doug got me a book by Terry Brooks
about the process of writing, and a book of sudokus (my current addiction),
and the kids got me gift cards to Barnes and Noble. We hade a raspberry
chocolate cake.

The day was a zoo because Becca was trying out for one of the freshman
soccer team. Between split sessions and things she forgot, I made the trip 6
times (Just 7 minutes each way). Then Ian had karate. All short trips, but I
don't think I had more than 1 1/2 hour without driving somewhere.

Thanks for prayers, for letting me ramble and vent, etc.!!!!