Thinking of my brother

I try not to get too deep here, especially since the title of the blog is On the Brightside. However, this week marks the 30th anniversary of my older brother Kevin's death. I was eight when he died, and to be honest, for the longest time I thought he was away at a camp and would be home again some day. It's funny how a child's mind works? I am mindful of this when dealing with my own children.

Kevin passed away a week before his 11th birthday. He had a brain aneurysm, so it was very sudden. This week, whether I realize it or not, tends to make me extremely heavy hearted. It is amazing how my sub conscious works. What's also peculiar is that my mom and brothers get the same way.

When I was a young girl, I was afraid that I wouldn't make it to 11. I spent two years trying to figure out how to postpone my birthday. (Hmmm, if only I could do that now!) My mom found out and took the three of us to see the doctor that tried to save Kevin's life. He explained that we would be okay. What a great thing to do, even though in my head (no pun intended there) I thought, how do you know that I am okay? You have never looked at my brain? I stopped worrying once I turned 12.

My brother Kevin was a hero. Because of his death my mother found the strength to leave my father (an abusive alcoholic). I know that sounds a bit dramatic, but I honestly believe it. (My mom does too.) My father got even worse after Kevin died, so I am so very grateful for my brother Kevin and to my mom, who saved us all. So I guess there is a bright side after all, huh?


Happy Birthday Kevin...and thanks.

Happy Birthday Emily

Today was Emmy's 12th birthday. Here she is...the speed demon that she is! Thank goodness she isn't quite old enough to have a drivers license yet!

My, what an amazing young woman you have become Miss Em! You inspire me to be a better person almost every single day. (I should probably enjoy this last year before we enter the teen years huh? Just kidding buddy...we will be fine!)

Happy Birthday Em. Oh and I am still taller than you. ;)

xoxoxoxo