The day started with Tyler’s enthusiastic “HAPPY BIRTHDAY STOEY!” kicking off a chorus of love for Chloe. Sophia called her “Coco Monkey” with a string of hearts, Chrisje sent warm wishes from the Netherlands, and Paul came through with a surprise digital gift that had Chloe exclaiming “OMG I’m so excited!” Plans were made for an evening video call once Tyler finished his class—because birthdays deserve face-to-face celebration, even when it’s through a screen.
Woven through the birthday joy was something heavier on everyone’s hearts: Grandpa Robert. The family had been praying since the night before, with Tyler and Chrisje lifting him up together. By evening, Sophia was able to share hopeful news—he’s doing remarkably well, though still facing a long road ahead. The relief was palpable, even as everyone committed to keep those prayers going.
In between the big moments, the chat wandered through its usual delightful tangents: a debate about whether something was a stick bug or cricket, Natalie’s Rhode Island driving wisdom (never confuse East Providence with the east side of Providence!), nostalgic memories of a spot they used to gather, and Tyler sharing a stunning photo from the Netherlands that had Sophia in disbelief that he’d taken it himself. Someone even uncovered the female equivalent of thinking about the Roman Empire—apparently it’s thinking about murder, which tracks given everyone’s serial killer documentary habits.
