24

birthdays. i find that the older i get, the more excited i am to celebrate my birthday. i think this excitement all started when i lived in the humble abode with abby and emma. the timing of my birthday was perfect - a few weeks into the new quarter, it was an excuse to assemble our creative forces, hand-make invitations, bring everyone together, and celebrate friendship. and yummy treats. abby and emma always made that day effortlessly special.

sadly, birthdays at the abode are no more since everyone is conquering post-college life around the world. although i miss those birthdays with such wonderful company, i am excited about this one. 24. but why? why 24? after days spent trying to answer this question, i've come up with a list. yes, a list.

24...
    --is the first year i'm out of school. an adult.
    --is the year my dreams are being realized.
    --is the year before 25, which is a quarter-of-a-century old.
    --doesn't sound like one of those awkward years - 17, 19, 22.
    --is the age my parents got married. and although i am NOWHERE near the slightest inkling of such  commitment, it's always a joy to think about how far  my parents have come. together.

so as the final countdown begins for the big day, i look forward to reflecting on 23, to celebrating in the comfort of food and friends, and to welcoming another year of a blessed life.