My birthday this year marked 32. 32 years so far, and still I feel I don’t really know when my 20s stopped and how that happened.

What I am proud of is that I’ve been here another year. I lost my best friend two years ago and just 2 days before my own 30th birthday. Micah was 29 and had type 2 diabetes. Every year now I have an unfortunate reminder of how good it is to still keep kicking around this place. Even when things are not great and the world doesn’t seem cheery, it’s still a lot better than the alternative.

I’m also proud that since my 20s I’ve managed to keep the same lovely, intelligent, funny and gorgeous woman with me. I’ve been a pain, an incredible frustration at times, and we’ve had our moments as we all do, but she’s stuck with me. And we have a great son as well – almost 6 now (hard to believe as well) and he’s a good kid. He’s happy, healthy and sees curiousities and adventures to be had in the world – wouldn’t want it any other way. We’re all pretty happy together – and that means quite a bit.

So, my birthday was very fitting this year – a quiet day with my family spent well. We had a nice time at home over breakfast, took it easy and then when for cheesecake and ice cream later in the afternoon. Below are some shots from that:

My cheesecake and coffee - what else would I have on my birthday?! The cake actually said 'Happy New Year' on it - my birthday is one day before Tet this year. I hope this is a sign of good luck!

My family. Love them.

The boys on Dad's birthday.

The best gift from Jacob: his usual sillyness.

After this, we went to see ‘The Muppets’. Much better than I expected and a good film for a kid of the 80s. It was fun and you should give it a watch – here’s the trailer:

We then went home to Bi’s home made taco salad. She made it special for us on my birthday – ground beef, corn, kidney beans and fresh tomatoes, lettuce and shredded mozzerela and pepper jack cheese. IT WAS GOOD!

So, a good birthday for me and great to have another one. Wish the same for each of you as well.

– Dave