Thursday, September 25, 2025 – Day 408

Thursday, September 25, 2025

Good morning. Welcome to Thursday.

Let’s talk about love because yesterday I had happy tears rolling down my cheeks. 🥲

I can’t begin to tell you how much love and support this blog has brought back to me. When I first resisted the idea of being a “blogger,” it was because I didn’t think I had anything meaningful to say—nothing that would hold anyone’s interest beyond family members who might feel obligated to read whatever repetitive garbage I churned out. But a few of you kept nudging me, and eventually, I caved to the peer pressure. That was back in February.

Seven months later, here we are. This little blog has grown into something I never expected. I don’t know how many followers I have, and I don’t need to. What matters is how this space has reconnected me with old friends, brought me new friendships, and deepen every friendship. It has allowed me to share my ALS journey, and, most of all, shown me how much love was waiting out there to come into my small world.

That love has been especially clear in the ALS United marathon fundraiser. When I look at what the kids have raised, I’m overwhelmed. Months ago, I was floored when donations hit $5k. Now, the total is approaching $46k. I still can’t believe it. Thank you—for your financial support and so much more.

And by “more,” I mean the homecooked meals, the handmade gifts, the projects you’ve helped us with, the outings you’ve included us in, and—most important—the friendship and love you continue to pour out. That’s the real treasure.

This past weekend, Pope Leo opened the ALS Walk in Chicago with a speech. I don’t know how they managed to book the Pope, but his words cut right to the heart:

“The quality of our lives is not dependent on achievement. The quality of our lives is dependent on love. In your suffering, you can experience a depth of human love previously unknown.”

I’m not a religious man, but those words describe exactly what I feel each day. I can’t explain it, but I know I’m lucky. As John Prine asked in his song, How Lucky: “How lucky can one man get?”

Well, I ask that every single day and I know the answer and it always comes back to you. 
Thank you for helping me experience this profound depth of love. It’s really awesome!

Have a great Thursday.
Love you guys! ❤️

Photos from Mary and Terry’s house. They had us over for dinner last night along with Barb and Mark.