Being the only girl among siblings has always made me "one of the guys." It has also made me something that most girls nowadays lack, which is tough. When most people consider labeling someone as "tough" they mean someone who is physically strong or may intimidate others by their looks or actions. Toughness has a completely different definition when it comes to growing up with older brothers. Toughness means you can handle any curve that life throws at you.

Even though our brothers practiced take downs on us, we were never truly taken down by any challenges that wrestled their way passed us. Constantly being pounded on as a child made cuts, bruises, broken and fractured bones endurable. You just throw some dirt on it and continue practicing your Tae Kwon Do on your brother. I'm actually starting to think that in another life I could have been a boy, and I couldn't be more grateful that my brother didn't let me grow into some prissy princess who actually enjoys getting her nails done or is scared of a bug. I may not look or act so much like a boy, but just because I wear heels or something pink doesn't mean I cant bait my own hook or take a hit thanks to him.

Growing up, I never left my brothers side. He taught me everything from riding a skate board, throwing a football, to driving a stick shift. Sports, sports and sports were always important in our family. Nothing was ever forced upon us but it was our favorite way to bond and gave us an excuse to try and hurt one or the other. I played almost every sport as a kid, you name it, I more than likely gave it a chance. Yes, even flag football because my brother played it.

Not only did I enjoy sports but other hobbies that included getting dirty and rough were appealing to me; fishing, four wheeling, or just playing in mud, especially with my brother. I guarantee I've eaten my share bugs just because he dared me too. I could always depend on my brother to beat up the boys that picked on me or wipe my tears when I cried. If you hurt me, you hurt my brother, and that's just unacceptable.

I feel bad for girls who didn't get the chance to grow up with a brother. Sometimes I think having a sister would have been cool but having brothers made me realize how lucky I am. I occasionally wished to be an only child as well but life would have been so boring without that one guy best friend--our bother. Now that we're older, we don't do much of the same things as we did when we were kids, but because of him I'm the lady I am today.

Not only did you make me tough, but you made me brave, independent and strong. We have walked through everything together, shoulder to shoulder, and I can't promise to solve all your problems, but I promise you will never face them alone. Who could stand a chance against us?