34

When I was 4 years old, I had some pretty clear ideas of what I'd be doing when I was 34 years old. I'm not sure if 4 year old self would be entirely happy with the current status of 34 year old Christopher. But then again, I've since learned that 'Jedi' isn't a real occupation and we still can't buy condos on Mars. It was probably more due to unfair expectations than ending up being a real disappointment.

I've become a freelance writer, who has been paid to write on a vast array of subjects. I ended up marrying a smoking hot and absolutely enchanting wife. I've got a little bundle of joy coming in two months. I've had two lovely bundles of life for several years now -- one that sings all day for supper and another who believes it will always be a little puppy. I'm a proud Uncle of the most adorable baby in the world (until my own, of course). I’ve learned you can be a goofball and still successful in life. Plus I've been surrounded by numerous loving and entertaining friends and family. So, I'd think my 4 year old self would be pretty happy how things turned out even if cars still don't fly and we don't live among aliens with glowing fingers.

This year has been tough, but it has also been good. I have strong hope that this next year as a 34 year old is going to be a spectacular one. My writing business grows daily, and more importantly, my family grows in two months. I believe this next year will bring a lot of good, and of course, a lot of challenges (but the best things come from the end of a challenge).

I've set a lot of goals for myself this year: as a husband, as a father, as a writer, as a businessman, as a human. I hope to stretch myself in my creative and business endeavours. For the most part, I can say that I'm looking forward to the next 365 days, and eager to see how the upcoming days and events continue to shape me as a man.

My 4 year old self may be a little peeved I never wielded a real lightsaber or got to travel across the world for some buried treasure, but he'd be pretty stoked that I have a dog he could ride.

It's been a marvelous 34 years, and I'm happily ready for year 35.

Now I hope you can excuse me while I go try out this whole being 34 thing today, so I know how to act properly for the rest of the year (and then proceed to do the opposite from this point on – of course).