It's been a long road as an only child. From the stereotypes, the surprised look on people's faces when they find out you are without siblings, and the endless questions of if you wish you had a brother or sister around, we should be proud to say that we made it. Just because our parents did not decide to reproduce after we were born does not mean we had any less of a childhood. However, here's a list of a few things that we did have to deal with growing up solo.

1. Your parents were automatically your first best friends.

Whether you liked it or not, Mom and Dad were the original day ones (and all the days after that).

2. You believed in Santa Claus/The Easter Bunny/The Tooth Fairy for way too long.

Not only did you get presents for a few extra years, but you avoided having to break the news to your parents that you didn't believe for as long as possible.

3. Everything in your life was documented.

From the good, the bad, and the insignificant, Mom was always there to snap a picture or jot it down.

4. You have no one to go in on gifts with on Mother's/Father's Day.

Thanks Mom and Dad, for loving every bit of those handmade presents throughout the years. Plus, now, I'm in college so they more than likely will make a comeback.

5. It was always assumed you were "spoiled."

There's no explanation. Not all of us are spoiled people! Geez.

6. Growing up, you were always around older people.

Which meant that you picked up a few of their habits along the way, whether they were good or bad.

7. And you grew up faster than your friends.

This is why you're now the "mom" of your friend group.

8. Your house has become a small shrine dedicated to your life.

Baby pictures in every hall, all your awards and trophies displayed for all to see, and do we really need a senior picture of me in the bathroom?

9. Growing up you had no one to put the blame on.

And because of this, your apologies and puppy dog face were on point.

10. You learned how to have fun with only a party of one.

Imagination was endless, let me tell ya. Especially when it came to snow days and partner games.

11. You were automatically the favorite child.

This is the best thing coming out of an only child relationship. Granted, you had no other competition.