Happy Birthday Travis!

October 16th, 1976 was the day my brother was born. I can't believe my baby brother is 30 already. It seems like just yesterday when Carla and I were locking him out of our room and only allowing him in if he agreed to play Barbies with us. I'm sure being a boy and the youngest wasn't easy. But surprisingly, being surrounded by so much estrogen helped grow a really great man. He's strong, honest, hard working and loyal. I know he'll make a great husband and an amazing father if that's what he chooses to do someday. Carla, Travis and I have always been close but Travis and I had some ups and downs when we were younger. We didn't always see things the same way. We got a lot closer during my illness though. He spent quite a bit of time at the hospital sitting with me. In fact, I heard he was there pretty much daily. Even though I don't remember much about that time, I'll never forget. That may not make sense but what I mean is that I really appreciate the support. Uncle Travis will be a big part of Mia's life, too. And since I'll be raising her on my own, he'll certainly be the most important man in her life.

This pic was taken a couple of weeks ago. It's our nephew, Teagan, getting his first haircut ever. And Uncle Travis got to do the honors. About a year ago, my brother realized that he was very unhappy with his chosen profession. He decided if he was going to make a change he'd better do it soon because 30 was looming on the horizon. So he quit his job and went to barber college. This year will be pretty rough for him while he finishes school and gets himself established. But once he gets there, I think he'll be much happier.

We're both pretty tough and very stubborn. Our family is not the real lovey-dovey kind. We all know we love each other but we probably should say it out loud more often. So here goes.

I love you little brother and I hope you have an awesome 30th birthday!!