Kiya

Kiya never thought she’d leave the bedside to become a SAHM, only to then be a nurse for her kids. She is astounded at how the path she was led on has been critical in these last several months - whether advocating for her children’s care, or actually placing NG tubes in a doctor’s office waiting room, changing central line dressings, and passing meds all day. The year called for much decompression, and cup-filling, and she was blessed to have many opportunities for doing so.

January - She completed a great accomplishment by becoming a Certified Travel Coach. However, the year’s events required stepping away from her business for the time being. She had the opportunity to enjoy some fun events in DC, and relax on a kid-free weekend in the mountains with her honey.

March - She was able to bring the kids to Kansas City for a week to visit family, and Auntie Rissy even gave her a night off to go up to the city for a girls’ night with some dear friends.

April and May - Terrible diagnoses and a driver who failed to acknowledge a stop sign brought 2 incredibly stressful months, but sweet friends dropped everything to come support her and her family, and Mama got a new ride. She and Justin celebrated 6 years married!

June - More sweet friends came to visit, and she and Justin started prioritizing date nights, one of which was a fun night out at a Nationals game.

July - She had an incredibly rejuvenating solo trip to her favorite city - NYC. The experience was beyond words with moments of “freedom” where she was able to focus only on her own needs, such as visits to the MET and the 9/11 Museum, as well as just exploring the city. She also had the opportunity to dine at Daniel - a long-awaited experience - and the staff treated her like a VIP and made it unforgettable for her. She also got many opportunities to spend time with dear friends and family, enjoying Manhattanhenge, Balthazar (and all the pastries), and sweet rooftop visits with cousin Jennifer and another unforgettable experience watching Hamilton on Broadway. July also brought about a wonderful (and much needed) family trip to Topsail Beach in NC. Former college roomie, Laura, and her family moved to DC from Italy temporarily and this has offered many opportunities for she and Kiya to spend a lot of time together - a welcomed, and familiar comfort.

August - Kiya was thrilled to learn there were no medical restrictions to prevent throwing a 2nd birthday party for Lucca and managed to pull an epic “2 Legit 2 Quit” party together in 2 weeks. Being able to party-plan was a return to “normal” for her and she really enjoyed getting the creative juices flowing. August also was the setting for a wonderful mountain trip for the family to Massanutten Resort.

September through December - Time Warp / Hospitalization