Labor Day Visit

I had a great time in Arizona this past weekend. It was so good to see Dan again after 2 months, which seems like a short time when I see it in writing, but feels like 2 years. Dan had new labs last week. His MELD is 19, down from 20 last month, but still #6 on the waiting list. Next labs will be done before the end of September and we asked them to check his ammonia level again. He's taking a new med to reduce the ammonia level which is easier on his stomach, and we hope it is controlling the ammonia as well. Dan said he's feeling about the same and continues to miss everyone at home in Hawaii. He is grateful for all the emails, blog comments, letters and cards from everyone (read his new journal entry on http://www.linesfromdanielsden.blogspot.com/ or click on the link on the right). We enjoyed eating out, going to see the movie "Ratatouille" (great family movie by the way), and just hanging out together. We got to watch some favorite tv shows together like we do at home, shows like Frasier, Andy Griffith Show and Dave Letterman. I got to swim with my niece and nephew and their mom Debbie, Dan's sister. Only when you swim in Phoenix at 110 degrees, the pool water is pretty much like a bathtub, but at least it's wet.

I got to spend time with Amy and Adam and my grandson Swen, still the most beautiful baby on the planet. More pictures are posted at www.picasaweb.google.com/dananddebvanalstine. Adam has a great new job with Kiewit maintaining all the big equipment and also learning purchasing and working with vendors. Adam took us on a drive around the entire job site which is in California right across the border from Yuma, Arizona (where they live now) - what a fun time! Amy is enjoying being a stay-at-home mom for awhile. Once Adam's training is complete, the company is moving them to Portland, Oregon. And Swen is growing like crazy! His eyes are open alot now, gorgeous blue eyes. He now has a double chin (from me, most likely). It was so much fun playing with him, the dog and cat, and my kids Amy and Adam.

It was a short trip, 4 days total, but I enjoyed every minute and hope to visit again in a few months. We are so grateful to our Mililani Baptist ohana for your love and support. And, thanks Roxanne and Vern for the rides from the airport when I get in at midnight and leaving the house at 5:45am for my 8am flight back. Vern, Karen, Roxanne & Joel, Debbie & Tim & Alyssa & Josh (Rick, I miss you)...I love you all. Thanks for taking care of Dan. You're the best.

The joy of the Lord is my strength,

Debbie