Monday, June 2, 2025 – Day 293

Monday, June 2, 2025

Good morning!

I’m back in my writing spot at home. After one of the best weekends of my life, I can honestly say—it feels good to be home, recharging right alongside my wheelchair.

When Tim first asked if I’d be okay with him throwing a small party to celebrate me, I was hesitant. I didn’t know if I’d still have my voice, my legs, or the stamina to hold up through 4–5 hours of nonstop conversation. I waffled for a couple of weeks before getting back to him… little did I know, he was already full steam ahead. Suddenly, he had a signed contract and a plan in motion. I swallowed hard, it was happening.

As it turns out—I had absolutely nothing to worry about.

The room was perfect. A stunning view of Lake Michigan as the backdrop, friends and family filling every corner. Everyone carried me through the day. I didn’t feel the size of the crowd until I walked up to the podium, for my speech, sat down on the highboy chair behind it, and looked out. I said to myself… Oh my gosh… there are a lot of people here.

Saturday was a blast. I hope you had as much fun as I did.

I do want to apologize to those I may have missed—those who couldn’t quite get close enough for a hug or hello, or who struggled to understand me over the music or through my less-than-crisp diction. I’m sorry. I truly wanted to connect with each of you.

There was a quiet corner set aside where I was supposed to sit, rest my legs, and let people come to me. Yeah… that lasted about 30 seconds. As soon as folks started arriving, I couldn’t help myself—I was up trying to greet everyone. So much for staying off my feet.

I’ll put the blame on my college friends. When I saw them at the entrance, all dressed in matching outfits—white pants and custom t-shirts with “Andy’s Army – college” written in a 70s-style font straight out of Laugh-In—I was floored. What a great idea. Thank you for bringing shirts for Cindy and me—we wore them yesterday with pride.

During the rare times I was sitting and someone new walked over, I’d instinctively stand to greet them. Thank you to everyone who told me I didn’t have to—but I really had to. It goes back to childhood. There will come a day when I won’t be able to stand and greet you… but until then, I’m going to keep trying. Hopefully without shifting too much of my body weight onto you in the process.

A few people asked if I’d post my speech on the blog—I’ll let you know when that happens. I’m honored that anyone would want to read it. Or maybe it’s just because it was hard to hear and understand me in the moment? (Fair enough.) Someone sent me a video of the speech last night, and I haven’t watched it yet. Seeing that it was nearly nine minutes long surprised me—it was supposed to be five! But rehearsing is always easier when you’re not staring out at a full room of familiar faces and emotions.

Huge thank you to Zack. I asked him to be my backup in case I completely lost control of my emotions. He didn’t hesitate—just nodded yes, and followed along word-for-word with his copy, ready to jump in at any moment. There were a couple spots where I thought he might be needed… so close. Thank you, Zack, for being ready to leap in without missing a beat.

We brought home so much stuff—it’s all parked in the front foyer. Once we got everything inside, it was time for a nap. And while I usually can’t nap, yesterday’s was a solid two hours. Then I watched some golf… which, I’ve been told, is essentially the same thing. Whatever it was, it worked—I feel good today.

To my anonymous book gifter: I finished book #7, Mind Prey, over the weekend. This series is really growing on me—each book is more interesting and suspenseful than the last. They’re holding my attention, and I hate putting them down. I can’t wait to start the next one: Sudden Prey. Still no clue who’s sending them. I’ve asked around, and everyone swears it’s not them… assuming they’re telling the truth.

Thank you for such a wonderful weekend. It will be cherished—and talked about—for a long, long time. Now I just can’t wait to see the photos. Nicole…what a great hire. You saved us there.

Have a great Monday.

Love you guys! ❤️