You cut me open and I keep bleeding love.

Today was my little brother's 6th birthday.

I remember clear as the day the day he was born. It was July 21st, 2003. They took my mom in to be induced early in the morning. I had an acting workshop that day, and the kids knew my mom was pregnant and due any day. I called my mom to let her know I'd be home later because I was hanging out with some friends, and I told her congratulations from my friend Ali.

Then later, at about 3:15 pm, I was watching TV with my sister. My stepdad called to tell me my brother was born. I even remember the show I was watching and what episode it was. My sister and I were watching "Cyberchase" and the episode was "Trading Places". My brother was named Leo Charles, after both of his grandfathers (in other words, my stepgrandpa and my now-late grandpa), both of whom went by their middle names (Mike and Bill, respectively).

To be honest, I didn't want a brother. I wanted another sister. But I was 13 at the time, so I was a little more bratty. But when Leo entered this world, I learned to love him. My sister and I sometimes can't put up with him, but I don't love him any less. He's a good kid, and is still learning the ropes of this world. He's got a lot to learn.

Happy 6th birthday Leo. May you have a great year, and many more to come.

***-Lily-***