This morning started early as they normally do. Adrienne was already wide awake by the time I got back to the hospital, and the nurses were ready with their vials and needles for lab work. Today was nutrition labs, so we could make sure I’m putting everything she needs into her feeds when I make them. She was not a happy girl about getting poked, but she was a trooper. They only had to stick her once, and her blood had a great flow. For anyone who knows Adrienne’s veins, you know that almost never happens. We’ll take that win! 🙌🏽

Mama, on the other hand, was running on 4 hours of sleep. So we stayed in and had a bit of a lazy day. The hospital brought by so many toys. Adrienne loves anything that lights up or plays music. What can I say? She’s a theatre kid in training. They even brought by a tambourine and an African drum. Honestly, it was fun for me too. 

We took a midday nap to reset.

It was also an emotional day for this mama. Seeing the outpouring of support from our community has truly melted my heart. Whether you shared her page, donated, or sent words of encouragement, please know that I felt every single one of them. It reminded me that we are not alone in this. I even felt a visit from my sweet best friend who passed in 2024 💜🥹. It was a day of big emotions, a good cry, and a whole lot of love.

On a lighter note, I found a burger spot that does vegan burgers with vegan chili, and wow. Highlight of the week, honestly. 🍔

I was really looking forward to Andrew, my mom, and my granny coming into town tomorrow. We had massages planned as an early birthday treat (I turn 25 on the 31st this month 🎂). But Andrew came down sick, so the trip is off. That one hurt. But what can you do, right? We keep going.

And we do have one thing to look forward to this weekend. The woman who brought us the drum and tambourine mentioned that her boss used to host a drum circle right here at the hospital. I asked if we could bring it back, and we’re making it happen. Sunday drum circle is going to be so much fun 🥁 Can’t wait to watch Adrienne hit her little shimmy (iykyk)

Thank you all for following along. I’m going to do my best to post daily updates, but you can count on at least weekly. And can you guys let me know how you’re receiving these updates? Are you getting them by email or text? It helps me make sure everyone is staying in the loop. 💛