After two nights of decent sleep, I feel a world of difference. It hasn’t fixed the issues causing my chronic pain, but getting more than two hours of sleep a night makes everything a little more manageable.

My grandfather, who passed away 41 years ago, was a huge part of my life. Last night, I dreamed I walked into a room, hugged him, and he spoke to me. Even though it was just a dream, it felt so real—such a gift. I miss him, but oh, how nice it was to “see” him again.

Both the Mariners and the Sounders lost their games today. Here’s hoping that the Kraken can defeat the Canucks at home tonight.

🎵 First time listening to Watch Me Drive Them Dogs Wild - Merce Lemon

Watch Me Drive Them Dogs Wild - Merce Lemon poster

My recent trip to the hospital reminded me of this Brian Regan bit about going to the emergency room. Specifically the part where he’s asked to rate his pain on a scale of 1 to 10 and how, after saying 8, they dosed him up with morphine.

🎵 Listening to Lonely Mountain Town - Charles Wesley Godwin

Lonely Mountain Town - Charles Wesley Godwin poster

Sometimes, the smallest gestures make the biggest impact. I received a card from my church after a tough week, and knowing someone took the time to think of me and reach out meant so much. A simple note, message, or card can lift someone’s spirits more than you know—don’t underestimate its impact!

Currently reading: Right Kind of Wrong by Amy C. Edmondson 📚

Catching up after time off, I always start with the most recent emails. It helps avoid responding to issues that are already resolved or missing key updates from newer messages (a mistake I’ve made in the past). How do you tackle your inbox after being away for a few days—oldest first or newest?

I’m feeling more human today. Still in pain and uncomfortable, but the combination of getting the pain medication out of my system and getting six hours of sleep in my own bed has me feeling more like myself. I remain hopeful that I’m on a path to recovery.