So what a week we are all having. Mike, Bob and Ray. Must be something in the air! We are having our January thaw.

I sat down tonight wanting to let you all know of the birthday weekend, but have been so absorbed with all the positive and wonderful news.

Mary Beth came this weekend to celebrate my birthday. She has some issues at work and this was the best weekend for her to come. Plus the weather to be warm. It was gray and drizzly, but no ice. Friday night we had our usual pizza.

I had asked her if we could do the box store run on Saturday. I have not been able to fit that in for about six weeks. I don't mind taking Bruce, but all the loading and unloading can be tiring. So we prepared our list and coupons. Brittany called and she was headed out with Izabella, so they met us there. Nothing like having a 20+ year old on board. Izabella insisted on taking Uncle Bruce to look at books and videos. She is busy! LOL

On the way back to the house, Mary Beth asked Bruce if he would go to my brother's house for lunch. Now this involves Bruce getting into the house. Bruce said yes. I had my doubts. We have all discussed recently problem-solving. Bruce is agreeing to having lunch, but I know he is not thinking of how he is going to get in and out of John's house.

Britt unloaded the truck. I was packing up a schlepp and Bruce's cane and apparently was in charge of Izabella going to the bathroom. That was an experience! And we all head off to John's. I am sure that we will get in the driveway and Bruce will balk. We were all prepared to go to a restaurant and John even offered to lift Bruce into the house. But I said "no, he either gets in himself or we go out."

Bruce never hesitated. Now the funny part is Brittany. Bruce will do anything for Brittany. But all of a sudden, she is missing. I am so proud of my brother Michael. He took control. John's access is railed on both sides, four steps up, short landing, one step into living room. I explained to Mike good foot up, bad foot down. He is just so patient and calm. I am sure he was a mess inside, but was just great. And how about my Bruce. I can't tell you the last time he walked, let alone did stairs and his Botox has worn off. Bruce said it was very painful but "It had to be done." Going down is harder as he has to control his cane and is weight bearing on the affected leg-foot. But they did it.!

Britt explained later that it makes her "afraid". She is used to her Bruce being strong and in charge. She is just so afraid of Bruce being hurt. Now we are a noisy and confusing group. We talk over each other, finish each other's sentences, change subjects on a whim and have an almost three-year old running around wanting to show everyone her toys. At lunch she gave us the premise of a Dora The Explorer episode she was watching. So precious.

So we got home. Bruce had cereal for dinner. Mary and I changed into PJs and watched football. I think both Bruce and I were thankful to be back into our quiet, normal routine at noon today. We all crashed early and then enjoyed a nice birthday breakfast that Mary prepared.

It was a dreary, but warm day. Bruce and I hunkered down. Will try to get out tomorrow for some errands and pharmacy run. But a terrific celebration and Happy Birthday little Ethyl. Debbie