13 ON UP - LEFT SIDE

MM Contest Entry #1
“13 ON UP” – Left Side

This layout was a long work in progress and I have this contest to thank for its finish! It was inspired by my brief time spent with my little brother right after he turned 13 and it was so special to me. Thank you all for looking, products used are as follows:

MM – Ave C Gray Monarch PP
MM – Brother Charmed Plaque
MM – Black Brads
MM – Small and Large Square Brads
MM – Photo Corners
MM – Photo Hinges
MM – “COLIN” Round Letters
MM – Jigsaw Letters
MM – Heidi & Evolution Rub-Ons
MM – Charmed Frame
MM – Asphalt & White Paint
MM – Misc. Rub-Ons
Bazzill – White Cardstock
Various Fonts from Microsoft Word

Journaling behind large picture reads:

Colin,
You were quite the surprise when it was announced that you were coming into our lives. It had been for 9 years of my life, just Brandon and I as Dad’s kids. You would be our half brother and I wasn’t sure where that left me or what would be expected either. I was never the best baby sitter and Barney tapes quickly became my best friend when you and I were together. You were now the baby and I had major moments of frustration with that, but our visits were usually short and became less frequent as the years passed. With our age gap, I remembered you as being the toddler at Brandon’s football games and in a cart at Wal-Mart wanting your popcorn. I can’t believe how time has passed by! When I got married at 19, you were my hesitant ring bearer, and when Brandon got married right before your teen birthday, you were a groomsman at his side. I was fortunate enough to spend time with you during the week of Thanksgiving, when Brian and I drove in from Idaho. For some reason with you, I have felt like the older sister who needs to watch over you and your growth into adolescence. It scares me how every time I see you now, something has changed, be it your voice, hairstyle, taste in music, or your attitude in general. I can’t protect you from the inevitable but I regret not being there whenever life threw you a curve ball these past years. This time we spent in November is something I will cherish always. You were barely two weeks into your teens, and for some reason you allowed me to get camera happy with what I think will be our last special visit as big sister, little brother. I will always remember the times I would hear excitement in your voice at my phone calls, and the hugs I received in front of family and friends. I know that growing up, it’s not so cool to run over and greet your sister with glee, but I hope you know I will always receive it if offered. Nov. 2004

Thank you again for looking! Heather V.