HELLO: August Highlights - My 24th Birthday

I'm not quite sure why people dread the steadfast approach of aging. I suppose I've learned to appreciate life in all its stages (either that, or the peace of mind that comes with knowing that my parents look 15 years younger than they actually are). It seems as though every birthday celebration gets better with every passing year; and if that's an omen to how the next year will turn out, then I sure have a lot of good things to look forward to. There are always new friends to invite into my life, and new beginnings to undertake. I've always taken my birthday as the point of year in which to reflect, re-evaluate, and re-charge. After all, it is "my" new year. With that said, I've already mentally listed my resolutions and goals for this new year of life.

My actual birth 'day' (August 24th) was a blast. After all, I only turn 24 on the 24th once in this lifetime. Ayana and I took the day off from work - which was a gift all in itself. She treated me to a very entertaining morning/afternoon at Glen Ivy Hot Springs. The amenities were "okay" - but we agreed that the entire experience is highly overrated. But we still had a blast.

Then came an interesting dinner with my closest friends. See, I lead a very compartmentalized life. Each segment containing a handful of friends - all of whom I never intermingle on a consistent basis. See, I like my segmented life... and the only time the worlds intertwine is on my birthday. It's interesting to see how everyone interacts with one another. What topics they choose to chat about, or what stories they highlight in order to introduce themselves. They're an amazing, and very good bunch of people. I am so lucky to have such endearing friends.

Thanks to everyone who called/texted/e-mailed me on my birthday. A special thank you to my family and friends who actually celebrated the day with me. I love you guys! And now, a picture overload!