Friday, October 2, 2026

Ups and Downs

Up: I am heading to a wedding tomorrow.  I love weddings and I haven't been to one for several years.  I think the last wedding I attended was when I walked my younger daughter down the aisle about five years ago.  For this wedding, my wonderful bride and I will be heading to Omaha, NE, where a former coworker of mine will tie the knot with the man who won her heart.  I'm happy beyond words for.  She's kind of like a surrogate daughter to me.  We haven't worked together for over five years, but we still call or text each other a few times a year.  I also expect to see a few other former coworkers at the event, which will be fun.

Down: My best friend has been diagnosed with thyroid cancer.  On the good side, it was caught very early and he will likely just undergo a lumpectomy, meaning he may not have to go on thyroid medication for the rest of his life.  Also, thyroid cancer is considered one of the most treatable forms of cancer, so his prognosis is very good.

Up: One of my close friends is one step closer to moving into a new home with his wife.  I'm very happy for him.

Down: He moved to Georgia a couple of years ago, meaning it's quite likely I will never see him.  Regardless, he's living his best life and I'm very happy for him.

Up: I purchased tickets to the 2026 Marine Corps Ball.  This will be the first time in a very long time that I've attended a Marine Corps Ball for active duty Marines, and I'm very much looking forward to it.  I plan to wear my Dress Blues, which will be a first.  I didn't have blues when I was active duty, so it will be the first time I've worn blues to an active duty ball.  Furthermore, I will be with my local recruiters.  I'm gonna stop here, partially because I like ending on a positive note, and partially because I can't think of another down.  I guess that means life is good in the House of Evan.