Your family is the absolute best. Every time you get together it's like a big party. They're not just your family, they're your best friends. Often times I get asked what it's like to have a big family. People want to know what family vacations are like, how you all keep in touch when you live so far apart, and if I like having such a big family (the answer is yes!). They make life so much more fun and interesting.
There are also a lot of things that show you are from a big family, and most of them you don't even realize are different until someone points them out to you. From remembering birthdays to explaining to your friend that the cousin visiting next isn't the one she met before, here are seven signs you have a big family.
1. Birthdays/anniversaries seem to sneak up on you.
It may get annoying receiving notifications from Facebook for birthdays, but it is a life savor when there are a lot of them to celebrate. It seems no matter how hard you try to keep track of them, one always sneaks up on you. It's not that you want to forget, but sometimes it's hard to keep track of everyone's special days.
2. Things escalate (quickly).
Whether it's a fun activity like a game night or just hanging out talking with each other things can get out of hand... fast. Once one person starts to act silly, it's all downhill from there. Laughter is certainly contagious in this situation. Soon, the not-so-good-ideas become great ideas, but it's these nights that lead to some great stories!
3. When you get together, it's always an adventure.
When you bring a large group of people together, it doesn't matter where you go or what you do, you are guaranteed an adventure. You're with your best friends and you make the best of every situation. You are also that group of people that everyone is staring at because you're having way more fun that you probably should be. You don't mind though because you know they all wish they could join in on the fun!
4. You're friends can't keep up with who your relatives are.
After being good friends with somebody for years, you learn who their family is. You've probably met their aunt, cousins, or grandparents... and you remember who they are (you've been trained to memorize names). But whenever they have the chance to meet yours it can be overwhelming for them. Every time it's a new aunt or uncle and there are too many cousins to count.
5. Taking a (good) picture is next to impossible.
Someone's eyes are always closed or not looking at the camera. Maybe a younger family member isn't happy. They also take forever to organize. You have to find a space big enough to fit everyone, and then you have to make sure the camera can get everyone. A quick picture is just not possible.
6. Secrets aren't really a thing.
Once you tell one person something it is only a matter of time before everyone in your family knows. Long story short, if you don't want everyone to know, sometimes it's just better to keep it to yourself.
7. You have a great support system.
They are the loudest people in the stands at your events, and they take up a good portion of the bleachers. If they can't be there in person, they are still cheering you on despite the distance. They've got your back through thick and thin, and you're thankful for each and everyone of them.