Diary Entry: Am I Alive? Yes. Barely. But Also Fully

Okay so… *inhales dramatically" I’ve been BUSY. Like can’t-breathe-can’t-post-can’t-even-think kind of busy. Life has been running me over and then backing up just to make sure it got me good.

First of all, YES I’m still alive, still kicking post brain surgery (wild, I know). Recovery has been a whole thing, but I’m genuinely doing better and hope that trend continues. I did have my first migraine that made me sick and feeling like my head would explode... BUT it was the first since surgery, which is a huge win considering they used to be a daily nightmare. We call that ✨progress✨.

In more glamorous news: I went to see Kendrick and SZA live in Atlanta and it was everything. Like… SZA pop-up? Got SO CLOSE, I could hear her aura humming. Erika even touched her hand!!! We were basically spiritually connected for 0.3 seconds,, I SWEAR we made brief eye contact. We also hit up Stone Mountain, the Coca-Cola Factory (because obviously), and got tattoos to commemorate our chaotic excellence.

I had barely unpacked from ATL and still was mentally singing “Snooze” when I zoomed off to St. Charles, IL for my counseling residency (Track 2, babyyy). But plot twist: my tire had other plans. Yep, it popped on the way (because of course), and the other one was like, “I'm about to do the same, girl.” Then the guy said my oil needed changed immediately and I shouldn't drive that far until I do. SO your girl rolled into night one late, slightly frazzled, very tired, and 100% serving main-character-surviving-a-side-quest energy.

Despite the bumpy start (literally), the residency was amazing. 4.5 days of role-playing emotions and refining counseling skills in what I can only describe as the warmest, most emotionally intelligent convention center on Earth. Imagine walking to the bathroom and ending up in three meaningful conversations about your childhood and dreams? Yeah. That.

I met some truly incredible people with so many vulnerable stories, so much kindness, and my group? Chef’s kiss on the cohesion, humor, and heart. I left exhausted but overflowing with gratitude and ready to take on my fall practicum like a counseling superhero in comfy shoes.

So yeah, I’ve been quiet because I’ve been busy living. But I’m back. And I’ve got stories.

P.S. Remember to drink water and romanticize your healing process. It’s what SZA would want.