Camilo's 2nd Birthday party

“I intend to live forever. So far, so good.”

Today is my birthday and I am now firmly ensconced in my 30s. I’m not really sure how I feel about that, as it seems like I’m too old to be “young” and too young to be considered “old.” I suppose it’s all a matter of perspective and opinion. Maybe I really should borrow a page out of the book of American comedian Steven Wright, who uttered the profoundly absurd but strangely true words above.

In a completely literal sense, none of us are going to live forever. That’s a rather morbid and dark outlook, however, because all of us can live forever in more of a figurative sense. We live on with the words that we utter, the people that we touch, and the lasting legacy that we leave behind.

Most years, I’ve been able to take advantage of all the free birthday food available in and around the Vancouver area. I’d munch on complimentary burgers, sip on free lattes and indulge in a “grand slam” of a breakfast. This year, I’m not so sure as I’ll probably just spend a quiet day at home watching football and zombies.

“It was on my fifth birthday that Papa put his hand on my shoulder and said, ‘Remember, my son, if you ever need a helping hand, you’ll find one at the end of your arm.'”

That quote comes from another American humorist by the name of Sam Levenson and it perhaps illustrates the greatest gift that we can give to the next generation: self-reliance and self-sufficiency. You have to learn to help yourself and if you want something, by golly, you should strive to get it yourself.

That being said, if you’re feeling particularly generous toward a certain blogger and new dad, I do maintain a wish list on Amazon and it’s not like I’d complain if I were to receive a belated birthday gift. Just sayin’. 😉