Hi, O,
I have a weird relationship with my brother too. I haven't heard from my brother in a decade. Our last conversation he screamed his guts out at me. For nothing I could identify I'd done. Accusations, name calling... you name it. I was stunned and silent and speechless. With time, I've come to realize I think he was drunk and doesn't even remember... and it's easier for him to be mad at me than admit he doesn't even know what happened. Another reason I'm glad I don't drink anymore. It ruins everything.
When you say middlest has your demons, do you mean with alcohol? Is she okay? How is the eldest doing?
And my goodness... how is the puppy!?!?!