Reason 247

Simplicity. Yesterday was my birthday, a lovely occasion for examining the past year, setting goals for the next, and appreciating all of the amazing people in my life. It also doesn't hurt to indulge in some stiff drinks and wickedly decadent chocolate dessert. Since turning thirty a few years ago I've realized that the older I get the less I care about gifts and parties, at least in relation to my own momentous birth - when it comes to other people's big days I am happy to go a little overboard. If you asked me what I wanted for my birthday I honestly couldn't rattle off a list of things purchased at a store, so you're off the hook, Jason. Nope, I'd much rather my birthday be a simple affair with me enjoying a much-needed massage, hitting a couple happy hours in Bend, and curling up in an oversized chair with a good book. Apparently, the adage that with age comes wisdom does hold true in my case, at least when it comes to keeping things simple and understanding people and experiences are 100 times more enriching than things. Of course, I won't turn my nose up at a thoughtful gift of new sneakers (Asics size 10), tickets to Disneyland, or my own gig as a writer for a hit TV show, but a few kind words from you, Jason, would be just as appreciated. Gee, I bet you can hardly wait to be my age so you can throw off the shackles of consumerism and be all Zen. That gives you three years to maintain your lifestyle of Bacchanalian excess - enjoy it while you can, youngin'.