Family. We've all got them. Some of them we love unconditionally. Some of them we love out of bloodline and out of social conformity. They can be classified in to a million categories, but there are a few that hold true to nearly all of us. As you sit around a family gathering, there are a few personalities that stick out among your relatives that hold true across differing families. Regardless if you have a very large family, or a small one, a dysfunctional family or a picture perfect one there are seven family members that can almost always be identified.
The Entertainer
You know who they are because when they're around you're never bored. They have stories to tell of all the crazy things they have been able to do and the people they have met. Additionally, when they say "watch this" you don't want to miss it. They have mastered the art of completing tricks most people can't even think up. Many times you feel bad for their siblings because this relative totally outshines. They have the best stories, have been to the coolest places and their hobbies are the most awesome. Many times they are the ones you go to visit for breaks or road trips because the adventures they participate in and the connections they have lead to awesome experiences.
The Freeloader
If you hear the combined groans of everyone in the room at Christmas when this relative shows up, you know they're the freeloader. They show up unannounced, stay for a few weeks, and are never afraid they are overstaying their welcome because they never think they are. These relatives expect a free meal, a free place to stay, and don't think twice about asking for more. They are usually pretty crafty in how to save money. They know exactly how extreme couponing works, they know how many days they can extend a bill before the electricity is cut off, and have perfected the craft of "leaving their wallet at home".
The Crazy One
They're a little over the top and often they are too much to handle. All recollection of social standards and norms fail to apply to these family members. Any idea you may possibly have will immediately be combated with outrageous additions when adding this personality to the mix. You honestly aren't surprised that they sleep in a hammock in their dorm room, rock a mullet on Christmas eve and show up in the most ridiculous get-ups. They've mastered the most unique hobbies and aren't afraid to share. Ever heard of under water basket weaving? Well, they've got it down to a science.
The One in Everyone's Business
Traditionally, this relative is also know as the loud one. You can normally always hear them coming. They know who you are with, when you were with them, where you were and why. This family member is more concerned with what's going on in your daily life than the FBI is about those on the most wanted list. They will randomly appear in public, or at your house. They will bring out ointment for the scab on your leg before you even tell anyone that you have one. It's as if they have bugged the houses of every family member and use it not only to stay far more in the loop than need be, but also to stir up a little bit of drama. Their monthly phone bill is through the roof. We've all got them. They know more about you than you do.
The Pushover
Often known as the lazy one, this family member is easily spotted. They haven't had a steady job in years...if ever. These family members can be found in close proximity to the buffet table during holidays and family parties. It's easy to get them to do what you want. For a case of beer or a bag of chips they will be at your beckon call. Need a ride across town or someone to hang out with for the day, they're your go to person because nine chances out of ten they're sitting on the couch doing nothing when you call. They may not be the most reliable but they are almost always available.
The Lover
You'll never feel the need for physical touch again after being in the presence of this family member. It usually comes in the form of a great aunt or an estranged cousin. They find it absolutely unimaginable that someone doesn't like a hand rub, hand holding or hugs. They pinch your cheeks, sit too close to you on the couch and are constantly looking for a back to rub. More often than not, a never ending stream of advice also comes from this relative. Thye love to the end of the earth, and they aren't afraid to show it.
The Best Friend
My guess is that you already have this one in mind.You know exactly who this is in your life. You're in constant communication with them, and they know everything about your life. Almost every childhood picture in your grandmother's house features them by your side. Finding a snapshot of you alone is the hunt of a lifetime. They remember your most embarrassing moments, and have perfected a never ending string of inside jokes. No family occasion is a true family get together until they show up. Your life would forever change without them in it. You're blessed to have this family member as a lifelong go to for anything.
