Aaron? Aaron? Aa-ron? Aaron! … Aaron? Uhmm, Aaron? Hey…
This line of questioning, starting out soft, getting loud and a bit insistent, then soft again, is sure to elicit an exasperated “WHAT?!?!?” at about the 10th “Aaron?” I love it. Never fails. Ever.
Oldest brother of mine, I love spending time with you. You have dad’s sweet heart. Mom’s thoughtful quietness. Yet you still manage to be among the silliest of the Veach siblings. I applaud your efforts, though you’ll never surpass my silliness. No, you match my silliness. I look forward to our time together because I know a lot of what it will entail. Smiles from the start. At least a few episodes of random laughter between the two of us that others will question the root of at first, then accept that there is no reason behind our madness.
How did all this begin, anyway? Was there a great transfer of brain waves when you dropped me off the porch (more…)
A4: you are the best younger brother a sister could ask for. I mean that in a funny way, because you are my only younger brother. And I mean that in a sincere way, because you are wonderful. You’re sweet and thoughtful, you’re smart and funny. When you ask me how I am, I know you really want to know. I know you care. I know you’ll be there for me always. I love hearing all about your work, your play, your cool new house. I miss playing Rock Band with you, and I miss your hugs; you open your arms so wide.
I am so proud of you, Anthony. I love you.
Our dear sister once gave me a huge compliment, and I found it hard to believe because I look up to her so much. She told me that I’m smart and mature and doing well for myself. She said she thinks I’m smarter than she was at my age. Well, little bro, I see that in you. We are blessed to have such a loving family of friends. I love that we laugh together and can just be still… together. I love that no one understands why Aaron and I make each other laugh so much and so randomly. I love how much and how passionately Adam loves Purdue sports. I love that Andrew is into quantum physics (you know, as a hobby). I love how Julie is a rock star in her profession and an awesome mom & sister at the same time. Mom would do (and has done) anything for us. Dad can’t help but be the sweetest man in the world. We have a lot, together. We have everything, together.
Happy birthday, A4. You mean so much to me.
Now, this:
This girl is:
A) glad you had a good birthday.
B) happy to be in the Bubbly Tubby at Ocean Park.
C) actually crying.
D) about to get dunked by the boy in yellow.