It is funny how you remember the little things even after decades have passed. When I was in the fourth grade, I vividly remember my teacher, Mrs. Pryor, celebrating her 33rd birthday. She was a class favorite and we all really liked her, but I remember thinking dang, she is kind of old.

Well, let’s fast forward 23 years and today I am the one turning 33 years old. Although from my mature perspective I like to think I am still a young adult, I can’t ignore the fact that most kids probably consider me an old dog. Oh well, I guess I should probably embrace it.

And embrace it I have––at least over the past few years. In my late twenties I became pretty self-conscious about my age but once I turned 30, interestingly enough, I stopped worrying about it. I was content with where I was at in life––faith, family, job––that I didn’t need to fret about another ring around my trunk.

I feel the same at 33 as I did at 30, 31, and 32. Life is just good when you get to spend each day with the people you love the most. There is nothing to fear about aging a year when you have a beautiful wife and a sweet daughter beaming at you as you blow out the candles on the cake.

Speaking of celebrating, my girls once again went all out making me feel special. They gave me some nice gifts and took me out to dinner at Michael’s Pizza, Pasta, and Grill. The food was delicious and Sloan, just like last year, was on her best behavior. My parents and siblings Facetimed me to sing happy birthday and Sid’s family went out of their way to mark the day as well.

Sloan and I at my birthday dinner. We ate at Michael’s Pizza, Pasta, and Grill.

Of course I couldn’t stop thinking that next birthday will be much different. Yes, turning 34 isn’t a “sexy” number so to speak, but it will be the first birthday that I will have TWO children helping me to celebrate it. But enough about that, first thing’s first…let’s do 33!

Sid spoiled me once again on my birthday.

So as I begin my “Mrs. Pryor year,” I look forward to the adventures, blessings, and challenges that await me. I hope to make it the best one yet. Don’t Blink.