... there really is a Santa Claus...............

Christmas 2010 - we have received the very best present a family could want - our son, Michael, has returned to the United States for GOOD!!!! It was a decision that he made a short while back, and we were thrilled to hear all about it - they will miss him in Serbia, but, he did what he wanted, and thought it was time for him to come home. What a way to end a year - not much can top that!!!
He looks and feels terrific and has begun to settle in - and for those who know him well - there is a lot of baggage when this man travels, so Mom has decided to stay away from his room for a while, at least. And, of course, as tradition would have it, he will be going on holiday for a while - so, he will repack again and 'do his thing' - Once 2011 rolls around, he will return and life, as he knows it, will begin. We told him that we would remove FINALLY, the VACANCY sign on the front porch. He has asked T.J., if and when needed, could he camp out at the Woodside Hilton in Stamford - T.J. has to think about that before answering.
525 will now be bustling - things will be happening - the slow & steady routine of Gail & Joe will be given a new lease on life - like a good shot in the arm - one that we all can use now and then.
Once again, he can re-connect with all his friends - go out and buy "that" car that will make him happy - treat himself to little goodies here and there - just live life as only he knows how.
We are thrilled beyond words - but we know that all of our family, friends and those who know Michael will be happy for us too ... so WELCOME HOME MICHAEL - it's been a long time coming - LIFE IS GOOD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Christmas has come early this year .............

Michael flew home for several reasons - to visit and celebrate his 35th birthday with family and friends, to be in the wedding of one of his buddies, and to be present for the baptism of Aidan and Lukas - he and T.J. are the Godfathers for Aidan. We also were able to get an updated MRI at Yale and then see his oncologist, Dr. Lacy. GOOD NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! She told Michael that he is in remission and he was thrilled - he will have to continue his MRI treatments twice a year, but that is certainly something that he can live with. We are so happy for him, and know that he feels much better just hearing that one WORD!!! It certainly carries a lot of weight and means so much.
He will leave with a lighter heart and return to Serbia ... it was wonderful having him HOME again.
Our best wishes for a safe flight - take good care Michael -
We love you, Mom, Dad and T.J.

... the Easter Bunny came to town ...

If there is one thing that Michael LOVES to do, it is to surprise his family!! We will take these surprises anytime at all!! He was here for a week, and we accomplished so much - was able to have his MRI done at Yale, and speak with his medical oncologist - all good .... that put big smiles on our faces.
Of course, there were a few "home cooked" meals, and the wine was flowing - lots of laughter around the dinner table at 525. Both boys gave us a fantastic time at one of our favorite places, a nice, small family owned restaurant - both owner and his wife were thrilled to see Michael, and all of us together - what a MEAL they prepared for all.
Attended the Easter festivities with good, good friends - food was plentiful and the Easter Bunny managed a visit to supply some eggs for the little ones. Both Michael and T.J. were asked to be Godfathers for one of the "twins" that are due to arrive sometime in late July - they will share the responsibilities for 'Aidan James' - his sibling is yet to be named, but we know that both babies will share the love of so many.
Michael looks great - still wants to buy that BMW every time we see one go by, so we told him, move back to the States and live his dreams - We know, all in good time ......
So much to be thankful for - our family, friends, good health and many, many more wonderful years ahead for all.
Spring has finally arrived, and so we wish everyone some warm, wonderful weather - ENJOY!!
Arch & the Commander