Saturday, February 22, 2025

Sunday, February 23, 2025

Day 193

Good morning, everyone! I hope you have some fun plans for the weekend.

We’re making solid progress on the remodel project. The bathroom tile is in, and today, the hardwood floors are going down. That means the house will be filled with the sound of hammers all day. I’m glad I wasn’t on a bender last night. Thank you, Joe and Donna, for taking Bear this weekend—he’ll be much happier playing, lounging, and getting spoiled rather than supervising all the construction activity.

One of the installers' requests was to remove all the clothes from the closet. Important note: they’re all mine. And yes, the closet is packed. I have no idea why I still own so many old suits, considering I’ve been retired for over ten years. They hold no sentimental value, and I certainly wasn’t planning on updating my resume. Although, I do still get job opportunities from LinkedIn. They must be desperate—my profile hasn’t been touched since 2015, including my photo. Maybe they still think I’m in my mid-50s. Shhhh…don’t tell them. Actually, I have some extra time on my hands—maybe I should look into a remote gig. “Honey…maybe you shouldn’t donate my suits just yet!”

By the end of today, I think my blog will be up and running. Geoff is going to walk me through how it works and all that jazz. I just hope I don’t frustrate him too much as he teaches me how to navigate the functionality of what he has so generously created for me.

I’ve mentioned before that the idea of writing a blog is a little intimidating. I want to keep people entertained, but more importantly, I want to share my inner thoughts, the progression of my ALS, and its impact on our lives—Cindy’s, mine, and those around us.

We hear from so many people who are hurting with us as we adjust to this “shitty disease.” But through it all, we are incredibly lucky to have such a strong support system. The love is immense, and I don’t have the words to describe how fortunate I feel knowing that Andy’s Army is not just standing by our side but growing every day.

This daily journal, which started as a way to keep just four people updated, is now reaching nearly 50. And many of you have pressed me to move ahead with the blog idea. That alone speaks volumes about the love and friendship surrounding us.

So, I owe you all a huge thank you—and a strong embracing hug. Don’t worry…the strong part is not so strong anymore so I can’t hurt you no matter hard much I squeeze. Your desire to take this ride with us is a testament to the incredible people you are. Thank you…thank you…thank you.

Besides, if I didn’t have all of you to listen, my social worker Jeff would probably force me into group therapy. I told him I’ve already got the best group therapy there is! I wouldn’t change the way we’ve approached this new life for anything. August 13, 2025, was a devastating day when we received the diagnosis, but somehow, we keep moving forward. And I’ll keep saying this—it’s because all of you are there for us, each and every day.

I think I see my suits leaving the house…I have to go before it’s too late. Somebody has to keep an eye on this purge.

Have a great Saturday.

Love you guys!❤️