Happy Birthday, Guella

I was in the first grade when my little brother was born. It was February 16, 1977, and I proudly shared with Mrs. Autry's class my exciting news!

When my sister was born, I was two, so of course I don't remember a thing about that. It was different with Michael. I was facinated with him and always wanted to hold him. I confess (now) to once pulling his hair just a litte -- to make him cry -- giving me reason to pick him up and hold him. That went over about as well as you'd imagine.

Growing up, of course we fought, but nothing ever serious. We always seemed to share a special bond, which remains still today. When he was little, I called him my BayBay. I don't know why...c'mon, I was in grade school. Somewhere along the way, he inherited the nickname "Guella", which is even more ridiculous. I totally made it up, but that's what I still call him. I think it's sweet. ♥

He always loved his money. Even as a kid, he kept his dollar bills straight, neat and all turned the same direction. Once, just to be mean in a fight, I took one of his dollars and crumbled it into the tightest ball I could form with my evil middle-school fingers...and he "went ham" on me! (haha--I just learned today what "going ham" on someone means and here I am using it in a sentence. I am so cool.) Appropriately, that little boy with the money OCD became a banker. I'd like to think I helped him commit to that career path by torturing him but I really can't put a good spin on it.

I am so proud of the life he's made for himself. He's happy and healthy (he's a marathon runner now!) and he has a vast sense of humor. He totally gets that from me. ; )

Happy Birthday, Guella. I am so proud to be your big Sis and I love you with all my heart. Watch your mail in the next few days...I'm feeling a little bit compelled to mail you a crisp, new $1 bill.

~Sis