Without a doubt, today has been the highlight of my hospital stay, and that’s all thanks to my spunky 2 1/2 year old, Mackenzie. My husband brought her to visit for the day and kept the baby, Lexi, at home.

I can’t say enough how much seeing Mackenzie lifted my spirits. She climbed into my bed and we read all of the Dr. Seuss books she could fit in her bag. We walked through much of the hospital, and everyone stopped to talk to her. I was so proud to show her off. Mackenzie is very independent and insisted on walking next to us, without holding our hands. Instead, she walked with her hands stuffed in her jean pockets, just like her Dad. When we got back to my room, I could tell she needed a nap, so I read to her until she fell asleep. We took a nap together in my bed, and for that hour things felt normal again.

When it was time for her to go, she told me to put on my shoes so we could all go home. I explained to her that I couldn’t go home until I felt better, and she seemed to accept that answer. It’s ironic that sometimes children can accept things that adults struggle with.

After they left and before I had time to mope, my doctors gave me some good news. It looks like the antibiotics are working on the abscess so there’s no need to drain it. And since they’re no longer preparing me for that procedure, they switched me to a clear, liquid diet. Chicken broth, Jello, and apple juice never tasted so good 🙂 Again, best day ever.