Every year since I turned 25 I have marked my birthday with a blog post. Usually I would assess where I was in life and how I hated getting older. However, I changed my tune when I turned 30 last year. When I joined the “three decade club” I had come to a realization that I was happy where I was at in life and there was no longer the need to compare myself to societal benchmarks.

Sloan surprised me this morning with a special birthday wish.

Today I turn 31. My sentiment is exactly the same as it was a year ago. I am content. Did entering my thirties suddenly bring on this change in me? Well, no. My whole outlook didn’t change the second I turned 30 at 8:06 a.m. on 10-8-2016. I like to think I have just gradually matured and realized what is important in life.

As a 31-year-old geezer, I have a beautiful wife, precious daughter, great job, perfect church, strong faith, and a warm home. I am thankful and I am blessed. Honestly, what more can you ask for?

It is hard to add significance to turning 31. It sure stings a lot less than turning 30. Perhaps I can just say it is my 10 year anniversary of turning 21? I don’t think I ever had more fun than I did during that year. Perhaps that is a good omen for these next 365 days.

A photo of me from 10 years ago today on my “21 birthday run.” That year was awesome and this one will be too!

But it doesn’t matter if I don’t have half as much fun at 31 as I did at 21. Like I said, I am more than satisfied with what I have. With that said, my little family is off to mass to pray and be thankful. A little later we will join Sidney’s family for a joint celebration (my sister-in-law had a birthday on Thursday). We will then return to our home and enjoy the rest of our Sunday together. In my opinion, there is no better way to spend a birthday. Don’t Blink.