When I tell people that I have five brothers, usually I get reactions of shock and amazement. Believe me, growing up with that many boys has its downsides, but I’ve learned a lot from my family. Some of the best stories I have involve my siblings. I’ve realized that my siblings have helped make me who I am today, and for that I’m thankful. With that being said, here are 16 things I learned from being in a big family.
1. Home is never quiet.
I love going home to visit, but anyone with siblings knows that home's not exactly the most productive place... Between vacuuming, blaring music and TV's, and loud discussions or conversations, let's be real, homework is NOT getting done.
2. Buying 6-8 gallons of milk at a time is completely normal.
Or 3-4 dozen eggs, for that matter. Costco or Sam's Club are your go-to stops for food.
3. Making meals for just you is actually difficult.
After coming to college and living on my own, I had to learn that it wasn't practical to grocery shop or cook in bulk- there wasn't always someone lurking in the kitchen to steal some of my food.
4. You know how to take a joke.
You're used to being made fun of and poking fun back, so you don't get offended if someone sends a joke your way.
5. Chaos is casual.
You've learned to cope with the chaotic lifestyle that comes from incorporating so many individual schedules.
6. Your love life, or any other aspects of your life, are always up for group discussion.
Whether you like it or not, major parts of your life will likely be integrated into family conversation- probably at the dinner table.
7. You've learned to express your feelings when you need to.
Tough love, baby.8. The competition is real.
Sports, grades, significant others- you and your siblings definitely felt the tension of rivalry growing up.
9. Secrets are not really a thing.
If one of you does have a secret, you can be sure it won't stay a secret for long.
10. Public embarrassment is the norm.
Whether it's your little brother being a troublemaker at the mall, or your older sister getting into a fight with your mom at a restaurant, we all know those times where you just take a few steps away and pretend you're not with them.
11. You've learned to be a more patient person.
Those times where they drive you crazy, but you can't punch 'em, cause mom's in earshot...
12. You know how to hold your own.
The years of sibling fights and discussions have made you tough enough to stand up for yourself.
13. Hand-me-downs, am I right?
Let's be honest, sometimes getting hand-me-downs is like Christmas.
14. You're known by whose sister or brother you are.
Oh, you're (*insert sibling's name*)'s sister??? No.
15. They're always there to cheer you on.
Through it all, your siblings are there to support you and cheer you on- even if it's done mockingly.
16. Your siblings are your closest friends.
At the end of the day, you can't imagine life without them, because you've come to realize that they're actually the best friends you have.
