One score and 12 years ago, my poor mother brought forth on this day a child unto this world: me.
When she shat me out at 1:10 in the morning on April 16, 1982, I bet she hadn't the slightest indication of the man that I would eventually become today, but I hope I have made her proud.
32 is an interesting year to be turning. I haven't beaten Jesus yet, but I'm still completely an adult: liable for my own life and decisions, responsible for my actions, and held accountable for my words.
Being a 32 year old means there is no turning back- no return escape to our adolescence. 32 means stepping out into the blue and really owning who you are as a person and what you are capable of. I've realized over the last few years that I am fed up with trying to be the person that people want me to be and I'm ready to accept my own individuality and the destiny that is mine.
I've got some exciting things coming up as I transcend into a new year:
*My book will be published this year, whether or not I find a publisher to do it for me or whether I publish it myself. I've reshaped and renamed my first book/collection Dancing in My Underwear. It will feature two brand new stories that make it a much more complete literary journey.
*I'm excited to announce that I'm almost halfway through completing my second collection of short stories Volume Two. I hope to have it finished within the coming months so I can also have it published and can begin my third book.
*Perhaps my most exciting announcement is the purchase and launch of my own website domain www.koelen.net. Though still under construction, I will be slowly transferring my pics, art, music, videos, blog, and book info all to one website: koelen.net! This was my birthday present to myself and I can't wait until the site is fully operational.
*I plan to launch Xavier's Bill in the following months. Xavier's Bill is my proposed Proposition to amend California's constitution to allow for ferret legalization. I do this for my brave ferret son Xavier whose current battle with cancer inspired me to finally push for ferret legalization in my state. If one person can change the law in their state, it might also inspire others to become more active in their government.
*Thanks to my friend Kevin giving me the opportunity to sing a solo last week, my interest in music and singing has been rekindled and will once again become a key feature of my life.
*Friends and family will be a strong focus of mine this year.
*This will continue to be my year of health and I will continue to actively pursue living the healthiest I can be.
Every birthday for the last 5 years, I have thrown a party with my friends for my friends. This year, I'm keeping it low key. While I love throwing parties, I've also realized I love just being me. So this year, I'm taking time out to just be myself and do the things that make me happy.
No more stress. Just life. To 32! #intotheblue
