Happy Birthday Little Brother

little brother, who is not so "little" anymore, happy birthday! 27 times around the sun.. where the heck did the years go?

there was a time i could act like your mom, boss you around, and actually get away with it.. remember those days when i was bigger than you? yeah, i hardly do either.. but there was a time! growing up by your side was so much fun.. all the trouble we caused, the fights we got into, the memories we made and continue to make have all been some of my favorite times.

eventually, we started to grow up, you turned old enough to make adult decisions and decided to join the marine corps. i know i've told you so many times, but you will never be able to truly understand just how proud i am of you for this decision. how much i admired you then and still do today. you were barely 18 years old.. most kids your age were worrying about which party they were attending that weekend.. and you were more concerned with serving your country.. which is exactly what you did.

growing up, i always wished i had an older, protective brother. and then somehow i ended up with one.. one day you didn't really care what i was doing and the next you were worrying about who i was dating and where i was going and what i was up to! and i love you for this.

now we each have our own lives.. mine in massachusetts and yours in connecticut (this better change one day!). we are so busy and don't see each other nearly as much as i wish we did and i know i don't tell you nearly as much as i should.. but i'm so lucky to have such an amazing little brother and a best friend. i admire your perseverance and work ethic, your discipline and stubbornness, your humor and your sensitive side.

today is your day so enjoy every minute! i can't wait to celebrate with you this weekend! i love you little brother! happy birthday!