I have three half siblings and they have my whole heart not just half of it. We weren’t raised to introduce each other as half siblings. I didn’t know what half sibling meant until I was at least 13 years old because it was unnecessary. I am lucky to have the siblings I have. If you have a “half” sibling, I am sure you can understand!

1. The term “half” sibling.

Yeah half sibling is politically correct but it’s hurtful because most of the time, I hear, “Oh, so they are just your half siblings?” The definition of a sibling is sharing one or more parents, so thanks.

2. The confusion on people’s faces when you explain your family tree.

Most people don’t understand the blended family, especially a tight close blended family; unfortunately, it needs to be explained at least twice.

3. Meeting a family with half siblings is exciting.

Meeting someone with a similar family situation is so nice. You feel so normal when you can relate to someone.

4. Not knowing what to call your sibling’s other siblings.

Is there a word for your half siblings’ half sister, is there? Or any of your half siblings’s other family?

5. Not knowing what to call your sibling’s other parents.

You don’t know what to call the parent you don’t share with your sibling; there are step moms and dads but not a word for your half sibling’s other parent who you might consider family.

6. You have heard, "You’re not my real Mom/Dad."

You have heard at least one of your siblings yell this at the parent you don’t share, and you have cringed every time you heard it.

7. When people ask “Same mom or dad?”

Does it really matter how I am related to my wonderful sibling? All that matters is that we love each other!

8. There may be an age gap.

Having half siblings means you either be close in age or a decade apart. You love your siblings no matter what their age is.

9.You get excited when people say you are alike.

You are so happy when a stranger thinks you look and act similar because finally someone in the outside world can see it.

10. Having to explain the difference between half and step sibling.

Sharing genetics means half and by marriage means step. I never thought it was that hard to understand.

11. People getting confused at how many siblings you actually have.

“No I have two sisters and a brother and my sister has a sister but I’m the only kid my parents had together…..” It sounds so simple to you but not anyone else.

12. The struggle of getting together.

Everyone has their own lives and maybe you don’t all live in the same house or town or state or even country so it’s hard to get the whole fam together.

13. Loving each other, no matter what.

You love your half siblings no matter what. They are your siblings and you wouldn't trade them for anything in the world. They make your heart so full.