im about to have a big birthday. i dont even know what im gonna do. but i will give thanks because im thankful.

ive met some of the most amazing people in the world.

ive kissed some of the greatest young ladies ever made.

the things ive dranken and eaten and seen and participated in.

youd never think a scrawny kid from the burbs in illinois would have had quite a life

but it happened. and a lot of it happened thanks to writing and blogging and

going outside and seeing what happens.

but the secret to all of it was

other people.

and that is why i am so grateful.

no one can fly on their own.

everyone has to lift each other.

everyone has to figure things out first and then the coolness comes.

people built the roads, literally, people invented the framework

people accept you and give you access and share secrets and work with you

hopefully all for the same reason:

to continue the improvements of everything.

so thank you for everyone for either literally helping

or being a great inspiration

neither of which should be underestimated.

gracias, madre.