Gina's update and Thanks 3/06/05

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We are all home and quite comfortable. Jimboy has had a few seizures here and there but they resolve quickly. So far so good. His spirits have been good, and amazingly, he has been having more control over his left arm and leg. We just keep praying that this tumor is dying, releasing or just plain old going away. So please continue your strong prayers. He is such an amazing little trooper. We will continue to follow his lead - which has steered us right 99.9 percent of the time. I have to leave a little room for error so .1 percent is enough.

On a good note, Big Jim went and picked Jessica up for her winter vacation. I have not updated on her in a while. She has had a few more seizures over the course of the months and is on medication for them. Hopefully, they are under control. This is common during puberty when you have autism. She has lost weight and looks great. I am so very happy to have her home. Although, it is strange to have my whole family under one roof for a week, but I will definitely enjoy the time together. That is one thing I have learned. Jessi is doing VERY well at her program, and is maturing very nicely. We are hearing more language and are excited for her and her new found life. Even though it is painful for me at times not to have her here, when I do see her, I realize quickly how much more relaxed and happy she is. So I will cherish this week with her.

The other girls are adapting to me becoming Mom again. Not an easy task let me tell you, but they are doing well. Casey has blossomed into quite a responsible young lady, and has come so far. She continues to grow into a beautiful young woman. Miracles do happen even when you are not looking. Victoria is now a "teenager" - get ready Jim - round 3. All in all, she is doing well in school and has a great head on her shoulders. She rises to every occasion to help and love. Amanda - well I think she is a 15 year old in a 9 year old body. HAHAHAHA. She is extremely witty and quick with a come back, but emotional and lovable. She is eager to be right always, but would rather be cuddled. Jaime is sometimes the goofy one. She loves to get a laugh even if it pretending to fall on the floor. She's lovable and cute, and you can't help but get just hug her. Emma, known as the "Emminator," need I say more? We just love her and her almost three year old spirit.

So, it feels good to update you all with such simplicity. We just ask that you wake up every morning and enjoy another gift of a day. Walk with your head held high, think positive, and love everything you look at. Learn your lessons, pass on the important information and leave the past in the past. You can't change it anyway. Love like you have never loved, and forgive whole-heartedly. You will feel great. Trust me on that one. You will get through each tragedy - big or small - and feel triumphant. Continue to pray for everything, and please remember to keep Jimboy in your prayers. Without your love and compassion our family would not have made it this far. We are thankful and grateful to each and every one of you for your continued faith. Thank you all for your continued love for the Arena's. We love you all very much.

Also, Welcome Home Allen Hamilton from Iraq. Job Well Done. Know that the Arena's and the Country are proud of you and your commitment to all of us. Your family waited a long time for this day. Enjoy each other as I know you will. We are proud to know you.

May God Bless You and Your Family Today, Tomorrow and Always, Love, Gina and Family