Wow. Been awhile. I’m older now, as we all are, but this time I passed the 30th mile marker…. (eh nevermind.. that expression paints a rather underwhelming image.)
This past week has been one of the best of my life, as I’ve never felt so loved by those around me. My parents traveled all the way from Kansas City to spend a few days with me, my friends rallied ’round me, and the lovely Megan James, my… ahem… girlfriend, produced and edited this thoughtful masterpiece:
It made me tear up a little, which is big. I’m reeaally tough.
She presented it to me just before we left for the biggest progressive birthday bash ever (also courtesy of Megan), starting with a small get together at Imogene + Willie, a bigger dinner party at 12 South Taproom, a raging night at Melrose, and a nightcap (or three) at Patterson House with the remaining stragglers, my true friends (just kidding, but seriously). We literally partied for almost 12 straight hours from 4pm-3:30am, and my salty parents dusted off their party shoes and matched our younger stride with ease. I was so bushed by the time we sat down at PH that I could only keep one eye open, and I told everyone “my mouth is done.” It was the best party anyone’s ever thrown me. Thanks Megan 
Fast forward to Friday, 4/1, Coach’s Pub, Hartford, CT:
I was standing outside talking to a couple people, and my buddy Dave came out, grabbed the back of my jacket, and pulls me inside as everyone in the bar loudly counted down the last ten seconds of my 20s, erupting into a fit of yelling and hollering, cheering and laughing. Like a band of wild pirates, they all sang Happy Birthday and For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow. That was easily one of the best moments of my life. I had an ear-to-ear grin and a few more tears in my eyes (still super tough though). I’ll never forget that. I love you guys.
Then we went to New York the next day and stayed out until 5 am. Then I went with my great friend Tiffany Thurston to Sarabeth’s for brunch, and to the Oak Bar in the Plaza Hotel for a Manhattan, which is somewhat of a bucket list accomplishment, personally.
If it sounds like I’m bragging, I am. I have the best friends and family a guy could ask for, and I’m bragging on them.
A lot of folks seem to stress out over such a number, but I welcome it. Sure, it feels a little strange to think about what I was doing 20 years ago, or to realize I’m 2 years older than my parents were when they had me, etc. But according to the majority of my friends of similar vintage, it’s the best time of their lives so far, so bring it on.
Let me also take this moment to congratulate my brother, Bryan, on making it to 21. You have a rich adventure ahead of you. Happy Birthday man!! Wish I could buy you a lot of drinks today.
Edit: i got this out a couple days late. Sorry Bryan.
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