May 21st

Overall… a green day. 💚

Not much to say, but somehow also so much to say. Today was filled with laughs, snuggles, kisses, and eye contact. Today felt special. 2 days in a row!!!

2 special nurses made it possible for me to hold Declan today, and I honestly can’t tell you the last time we got him out of bed. It felt so incredibly good. I spent over two hours soaking up the best snuggles I could get. From last Thursday to today, it truly feels like a whole new world. One week ago, I felt like I was living in my worst nightmare… and now I finally feel like I’m waking up inside the best dream.

We also had some fun today, playtime, a little spa day, and dress-up time. (See pictures below)

And one little milestone that absolutely melted my heart… Declan grew tear ducts. He can cry now. Something so small, but such a big moment for this mama.

Colton had a fabulous day too. He was very patient while his brother got all the snuggles. He did have a few rough moments because he’s learning how to poop again now that he’s eating more. This boy has always struggled in that department.

We’re also getting ready for his surgery. Right now, we are aiming for next Thursday, but if possible they may try to move it up sooner. This feels exciting, life-changing, and honestly like the best opportunity to help get this boy home.

Tomorrow is going to be extra special too. Dad is finally coming to visit the boys as we get ready for his big birthday weekend. The boys are so excited to see him. It’s been a little while since he’s been able to visit because he was sick last week, and we cannot wait for him to see just how much they’ve grown and changed in such a short time.

There is something so beautiful about getting to share these “green” moments together after such a hard stretch. I already know tomorrow is going to fill all of our hearts.

Overall, things are looking good.

I’m learning a lot about myself through all of this. I had two visitors today who really opened my eyes. I hear all the time that I’m doing a good job, but hearing it face-to-face, with tears in their eyes and the biggest hugs, made me truly believe it. I am doing the absolute best I can for these boys.

I’m making big decisions, not just for my future, but for theirs and for our family as a whole. And for the first time in a while, I feel hopeful

Plus I slept for 11 hours…. My body sure needed it.

Declan’s Photoshoots: