Becoming an audiophile has been like a second... No, third childhood.

Having children and raising them is the most important thing I've ever done with my life. When my son was born, there was the anticipation of buying him all of the cool toys I remembered as a kid and the really cool ones that I always wished I had. That was my second childhood. It was really great! I'd buy the toys and be so excited! Excited for him to play with them but also excited for me to share in playing with him and them. To the world I could always say "they're for my son" and maintain my adult status.

Becoming an audiophile has definitely been a third childhood for me. However, this time I'm exposed to the world, out there in the open. No more hiding behind my son.

I could say something like "I'm buying a record for his birthday" but honestly, I wouldn't be researching pressings, or ordering expensive releases off Discogs. If another adult I know sees me carrying a bag of records, I'm not embarrassed to admit they're for me.

I've had similar emotions to opening up incredible Christmas presents as a kid when getting the gear except there isn't the shock of receiving them. Although, unwrapping my speakers in late December a couple of years ago was pretty sweet!

Yes, I've embraced my latest childhood renaissance!