Birthday Letters

Dear Mom - Today is your birthday and there really isn't anyone on the planet I can think of that deserves a better one than you. For the entire 28 years of my life you've always given selflessly to your kids without ever thinking of yourself. Although I did not get your blonde hair or blue eyes, I did get your mannerisms. Brandon has stopped me in the middle of talking a few times to say, "Whoa, whatever hand motion you were just doing while telling that story was identical to your mom." I have always loved reading and all things book related, just like you. Perhaps it was all those years of reading to me when I was little, and taking me to Little Professor Book Store to let me pick out a book (or 3) every few weeks.  It goes without saying that I went on to get my English degree just like you. You have always been the smartest person I've ever known. 19 year ago you had to give birth on your birthday (that was unfortunate) but you gave me our youngest brother, Spencer.

Spence- Having a little brother ten years younger than me was sometimes like having my own living baby doll. I remember clearly when mom and dad brought you home. All 10 pounds 14 oz of you. Holding you was like holding a toddler. I loved when people would talk about how much you looked like me when I was a baby because I thought you were the cutest thing I had ever seen. I'll be honest and admit that I really wanted a sister. You see, I already had a younger brother, AJ. But I had to make due with what I was given. So when you were 4 years old, I would dress you up in my dresses, and put mascara and blush on you. You were always a good sport. Watching you grow up has been a lot of fun. Watching you start college has been weird. I still picture you as this little kid. Although you're now 6'4, you will always be my kid brother. Happy 19th Birthday, doodles.

One of the outtakes but one of my favorites :-)
Dad, Mom, Brandon, Me, Spencer & AJ