Thursday, January 1, 2026 – Day 506

Thursday, January 1, 2026

Good morning, everyone.
Happy New Year!! 🎉

Okay… I’m a little shocked that I received a few texts just after midnight wishing me a Happy New Year. I honestly didn’t think that was still a thing…staying up to midnight.

Maybe they were drunk texts—although none included an “I still love you!” Either way, thank you for thinking about me while you were celebrating last night. It means a lot to know you’re thinking about me.

New Year’s Resolution I don’t have any New Year’s resolutions this year. That’s not to say there aren’t areas of my life I could work on—but coming up with something feels a little trite right now. My plan is simple: keep on keeping on and continue facing this shitty disease head-on.

I’m at that stage of ALS where every task and activity requires real effort. Nothing is automatic anymore. I’ll keep sharing the experience and invite you to read along—the good, the bad, and the ugly.

PSA – Polar Bear Plunge 🐻‍❄️ For those of you looking for something new and different, there’s a Polar Bear Plunge this morning in Waukegan at the municipal beach from 10:00–11:00. Cost is $25, and registration opens at 9:00.

I’ve done this event… a long time ago. It’s an experience unlike anything else—unless you’ve done early-season triathlons. Hitting icy water with air temps in the single digits will absolutely wake you up. If you’ve got a weak ticker, I suggest you pass. As for me? I’m taking a pass. No need to do that twice in one lifetime.

Seasonal Cold & Flu Cindy is still fighting a bad cold. It’s entering week two, and the coughing is louder and the nose-blowing more frequent. She’s been masked up, and so far I’ve managed to escape it.

I’m not able to help her much right now—other than trying to limit my neediness. I just wish I could take Bear out for his walks. It’s no fun heading out in bitter weather even when you’re well.

Have a great start to 2026. Thank you for spending a little time with me.

Love you guys!❤️

Today’s random photo from Summerfest 1984. That was always such a fun event.