So far, so far.

Meg and Thomas had some wonderful time with Michael today.

During their visit with him tonight, Mick opened his eyes fully for the first time and revealed his giant saucers of deep blue. He also grabbed both Megan and Tommy's fingers as if to say, "I'm going to do it, Mom and Dad." He was moving a little bit and, for the first time, this was encouraged since it may help bring down the swelling. What a brave warrior.

And, this is not just familial bias. Tonight, two nurses were fighting over who would care for him. The one who has been watching over him the past few nights won out, and we have to again commend this staff for their remarkable skill and dedication.

Father Don paid a visit to Michael, blessing and checking up on him. He reminded us that Michael's not out of the woods yet and quoted his father with saying, "So far, so far." (Instead of "So far, so good.")

The swelling has reduced some, but Michael's last surgical hurdle won't be scheduled until his vitals are measured in the morning. As one of Mick's doctors said, "If we close his chest tomorrow, it will be the happiest day." So all good thoughts on board.

Michael's aunts headed back to their respective cities this evening, clinging to the scent, now synonymous with little Mick, of Provon liquid soap and Purell foaming hand sanitizer. We feel so fortunate and enriched to have been a part of this experience. Not only could we immerse ourselves in Michael's courage and personality, we witnessed our siblings at their proudest moment. As my aunt said of Megan and Tom, "You have risen to the challenge of parenthood in a way that some take a lifetime to figure out."

In addition to being parents extraordinaire, Thomas and Meg will also serve as field correspondents, since we're no where near ready to shelve the blog. We still have a ways to go, both in terms of medical prevail and monumental celebrations.

But for now, so far, so far. And thank you.


A picture of our buddy earlier in the week: