Getting Older and Friends

I turn 37 years old today. For the first time that I can remember I actually feel older on my birthday. This could have something to do with the fact that I'm completely out of shape, and have a little extra baggage around the middle.

I've never really made a big deal out of my birthday. I don't feel a lot of anticipation over receiving gifts. That's mainly because I've reached a point in my life where, when I want something, I just go buy it. This upsets my wife a bit, since it makes me impossible to shop for.

This weekend I was able to spend some time with good friends. That has made me reflect on my life a bit. I realize the person I am today has a lot to do with the friends I've chosen. I'm lucky to have found friends that share common interests and values. As I remember high school, there's barely a fond (and sometimes, not so fond) memory that doesn't involve one or more of my very close friends. Ryan, Adam, and Joey. You will not find 3 more amazing men on Earth. For over 20 years, we've been through thick and thin. Although we've got jobs, family, and countless other distractions, I find joy in knowing that any of them would have my back if I need it. Joey recently moved to Idaho, and I don't get to see him often. But I cherish the 6 Saturdays between August and November that I get to see him. Adam and I are, geographically, the closest. But between my hectic travel schedule and our mutually busy work and family lives, the occasional lunch is all we manage to squeeze in. Ryan, I still see a couple of times a month. We were roommates in college and stay extremely close to this day. I hope it goes unsaid, but if they're reading this, I would like them to know that I would do anything for them. I love you guys!

I've also been fortunate to work for some companies that employee exceptional people. Although not as close as those listed above, I've made some great friends in the last 10 years at work. Even when things at work aren't going well, great colleagues and friends, make working through those challenges a little less painful.

To all my friends out there, thanks for being my friend! I really appreciate each and every one of you.