Friday was the birthday of my brother

Today was Casey Joes birthday. He would be 28 if he were still alive on this earth today. It's crazy to think that 15 years have gone by since he got that skateboard for his thirteenth birthday. I still remember that and how it hung over my dads workbench for much of my growing up and adult life. I try to remember things about him and I tell people stories of my childhood from when he was alive and talk about my older brother as if I know him as well today as five year old me did back then. Linnea posted 15 pictures she scanned when she was home of our cute little family back then and in most of them I'm sitting on his lap or he's holding me or touching me in some way. He was the typical big brother and my very best friend in the whole world. Never will I look at a can of pork and beans again without being reminded how much he loved them. Or put barbecue sauce on anything without thinking about how he put it on everything. How he came back that day he was taken from us and told my mom he loved her before re-embarking on his journey to Jeb Snows house. I wish I had more memories and I'm sure in the eternities I'll be able to make many many more, but for now these are the things I remember. And how we all spent time together often. I have a distinct memory of us all pretending to be flying in a hula hoop in the front room of our house. I wish I could remember more and maybe as I think on it harder and longer I'll remember all of the things that made everyone he came in contact with, love him.
I remember everything from the day he died and on the day of his funeral, it's interesting how our lives start out with memories from traumatic events. I don't remember many distinct events from around that time either. Sad to say the ones I do remember aren't very happy. And someday soon I'll write them all down so I can remember my early years and the things we did that left their mark on me and my life.
I'm sorry I'm not a very happy blogger tonight, but blogging just the same.
Happy Birthday, my dearest older brother and best friend, Casey Joe Holbrook. You are dearly missed and thought about often. I'm grateful I got to visit the temple today because I am sure that's what you would have me do. I feel closer to you while I'm there and happier about my life after this because I know I'm making the right choices.
Until next time, I'm yours