I don’t think anything could have prepared us for the day when my mom came to my twin brother and I at the age of sixteen and told us she was having another baby. I don’t think she knew what to say either. She just thought she had a bad stomach virus, and when she went to the Dr. he said, “Nope! You’re pregnant!” I won’t lie and say I was excited or happy about this news; I wasn’t sure how I would feel about a new baby in the house. Our whole family knew our world was about to change drastically. Every negative thought I had about my brother coming changed instantly the moment looked into his eyes and held him the day he was born. Now, Its really hard for me to remember what life was life before him. Here are a list of things that happen/people say when you have a brother more than 10 years younger than you.

1. “Your son is so CUTE! How old is he?”

In an age where teen parents are more prevalent than ever, it's so common to get asked “How old is your son?” or I get this a lot... “Girl! I didn’t know you had a baby!!” Someone even asked my mom what she thought about being a grandma. I mean, I can’t really blame them; he looks just like me!

2. You become the third parent.

You have just as much say in telling them to do something as the parent does. When he doesn’t do something you want him to do, you have just as much power to take away the iPad and make him go to time out. But that never happens because he’s too cute to punish!

3. You try not to think about how old he will be when he is your age.

You realize that the same year you graduate college will be the same year he graduates kindergarten.

4. You are his biggest cheerleader

I remember when he took his first step and said his first word. I know which food is his favorite and what things make him scared. I become overjoyed when he accomplishes big and small things.

5. Kid movies are cool.

When I am home for the summer, movie nights in my room are a very common thing. I love that I have an excuse to go see every new kid movie that comes out in theaters. AND I can quote just about every line of Mr. Peabody and Sherman. Beat THAT!

6. You have the most loyal sidekick.

No matter where I go, he always wants to tag along, and he really is the most fun ever. Conversations are never boring, and questions are unending. He’s constantly wanting to learn and explore this big world around him, and you get to be that person that plays a part in his discovery. He is also the best backseat singer in the car. He can belt Taylor Swift's entire 1989 album just as loud as I can and enjoys it just as much. He’s in all actuality, my mini-me.

I’m so thankful for my little best friend that has come along and changed my life. He is one of the best things that happened to me, and I will always cherish every moment I have with him! I am one proud big sissy!