Dear pneumonia … you didn’t stand a chance.

It lingered, but is now completely out of Iris’ system and she picked up right where she left off. She and Solana have been making the most of these gorgeous summer days.

And … Iris got her ears pierced.

I took her to Claire’s and, after looking over the available earrings, she decided on the “rainbow daisies” … if you know me, you can imagine my delight. As Iris was sitting on my lap waiting to get her ears pierced, a large family gathered to watch. The grandma was outspoken (understatement) and decided to take bets, with her family and other customers, on whether or not Iris would cry. Normally I would have found her behavior rude, but instead I started giggling. And when the rough-around-the-edges grandma proclaimed loudly, “I betcha five bucks that little girl is gonna cry!” … I couldn’t contain my laughter. Really grandma?

I should have placed a wager but my reward was watching the astonished looks on their faces as Iris talked and smiled through both ear piercings. No tears. No flinching. Guess grandma failed to see the beautiful, and clearly visible, scar on Iris’ chest.

Mission accomplished Iris. She’s part super hero … squashing challenges and naysayers with her smile and charm.

Iris’ medical journey continues next week with an ultrasound followed by a visit with Dr. Armsby. Her balloon dilation (and possible stent) procedure has been scheduled for September 16 and she’ll spend one night at Doernbecher so they can monitor her.

We continue to move forward. Our new normal is working out just fine … I honestly could not feel happier or more blessed.

Hugs to everyone.