Birthday Reflections - Age 33

i have been perusing the internet for reflections written by people in their 30's. most of these tend to focus on things that people have achieved and goals they have reached, as well as things that they are thankful for. as l am looking back across my years, i wonder whether any of those things really apply to me. what have i done with my life and where will i be next year??

goals i have achieved
- completing school up to the masters level, and enjoying it
- obtaining my gis certificate
- getting a permanent job with mnr
- paying off all my school debt
- getting married
- buying a home

these all seem like great accomplishments. for the most part these things were goals that took me a long time to achieve and i am proud of them. but as usual in my life, things are tainted and coloured by the things that i have not achieved or are not present in my life even though i want them to be.

things that are missing from my life
- a secure and loving relationship
- children
- a real home (where i live, not just visit)

i am definately thankful that in my life i do have
- my health
- great friends
- a job that i love (finally)

and considering i am 33, i look pretty damn good! all in all, its been a melancholy birthday, a few welcome surprises and birthday wishes, and a few regrets and disappointments. just like my life.

if it was my dream birthday i would have sushi, creme brulee, all of my friends present, birthday wishes from everyone i know, sunshine, long island iced tea, and i would not have to work unless i wanted to. maybe achieving everything on that list should be my goal for next year.