Thursday, November 13, 2025 – Day 457

Thursday, November 13, 2025

Good morning, everyone.

Wow! Even though I didn’t personally see the northern lights the last two nights, the photos have been incredible. Truly stunning stuff.

This morning I get to sit here in the quiet of the house, listening to the owls talk to each other. They’ve been around for years, and I’m glad they like our little wildlife buffet of rabbits, squirrels, mice, and whatever else wanders through. Cindy however, would prefer they wouldn’t leave their kill on the sidewalk to the house.

I’ve been good about sticking to my three formula feedings each day since last Thursday’s “weight-loss alert” at the ALS clinic. Two cartons per meal adds up to just over 700 calories or 2,100 for the day, so I’m hoping to see positive results the next time I step on the scale. I’d do it this morning, but honestly…it takes too much effort to get up and go upstairs to hop on the scale. Besides…I’m really comfy by at the moment.

Of course, all those liquids and calories translate to more bathroom breaks. That might be the biggest downside for me. We didn’t set up the downstairs powder room as my primary bathroom, so it’s more challenging (translation: risky). The doorway isn’t wide enough for the rollator, and we never installed grab bars. So I’m grabbing the doorway frame, the door knobs, the vanity, and even the toilet just to safely pee. If anyone from clinic is reading this…yes, yes, I know. I’m officially in the fall-risk penalty box. I have some ideas that might help fix this. Meanwhile…if I’m not in a full fledged panic…I’ll head upstairs.

Good news on the vaccine front: the flu and pneumonia shots I got on Tuesday only left me with sore arms. In the past, vaccines would knock me on my butt and keep me in bed for a day or two. Not this time. Sure, the sore arm messes with my sleep, but I’ll gladly take that over feeling like garbage. What a relief.

I’ve mentioned my neck discomfort when I walk or sit in a firm chair. I still haven’t found a solution except to avoid or limit whatever triggers it. But the neck problem creates a funny little issue: since I really can’t lift my head when I’m standing, I can’t see myself in a mirror—except for a quick glance when I’m trying to preen. Makes it tough to shave, comb my hair, and look presentable. Good thing I’m not too self-conscious…and that I’ve got Cindy to help when I go out in public. Although, if she ever decides to prank me, I’d never know.

I heard a quote recently—attributed to Dr. Seuss, though unverified—but I thought it was worth sharing:

“Sometimes you won’t know the true value of a moment, until it becomes a memory.”

Go out and cherish your day. Notice the small things. Enjoy the people around you. Those are the moments that turn into the memories that keep your heart and soul smiling.

Have a great Thursday. Love you guys! ❤️

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