Easter at the Lake! Family fun before Week 8!

Monday, April 25th marked week #8 of Leslie's first 12 weeks of chemo.  A visit to the oncologist today confirmed definite progress.  Four more weeks of this weekly chemo, then we'll begin what the nurse referred to as "the nasty stuff."  Our Leslie knows the harder treatments are just around the corner, but she says "bring it on and let's get this finished, get on with the surgey and get back to our normal lives!" 

Prior to the week #8 treatment, we all gathered at what Riley calls "The Far Away House".....a semi-secluded, quiet, nature-filled getaway lake house........one of Leslie's most favorite places!  She was so excited to have all her "peeps" coming for Easter. 

Family and friends began gathering on Friday, bringing food, laughter, smiles AND Easter eggs to The Far Away House in Swannerland! 

Part of the festivities included planting a beautiful red oak tree. 
We insisted on a pose for a 2011 photo to mark the planting on
Easter Sunday.....fairly close to Earth Day.

Avery had her own special jar of organic sweet potatoes with turkey.

Avery loves her big sister, Stacey

Jim insisted the little people pose on the stairs for a picture before hunting eggs. 
Riley made it clear that somebody had to take Avery before Jim said "go"!!!

And rightfully so.....the big people also had to pose prior to the adult egg hunt. 
Hey, prize eggs included $10, $5 and golden dollar coins!  What a fabulous Easter Bunny!!

Later, a quilt was spread on the grass for Avery and "Buddy" to enjoy. 
Avery didn't crawl too far from her Mama.........she loves her Mama!

After all the festivities........back home in Mineola, Sassy Miss Riley Girl helped
Jim plant beautiful pink petunias in pretty pots while
Mom, MoMo and Avery lounged on the patio. 
What a wonderful end to a perfect weekend!