Cousins are the first people your age that you're really around as a child. Thank goodness I was blessed with 10 cousins who are not just my family, but some of my very best friends.

1. Family functions wouldn't be the same without them.

Family reunions. Christmas. Thanksgiving. Weddings. These family functions wouldn't be the same without your cousins by your side. Because I think we all have that crazy family member that you know will cause a scene or get mad at someone. You have your cousins to laugh with at these dysfunctional events.

2. They understand that a psycho gene runs through the family.

Their parents are your parents' siblings. They know that when it comes down to it that they all act they same way. They all have a moody side and you know exactly what causes them to blow up. You all discuss these things at Sunday dinner and how you you've made your parent mad during the week.

3. And when you lose a cousin, your other cousins are there for you and each other.

Losing a cousin is like losing part of your heart. Thankfully, you have your other cousins there to be with you and pray with you when you feel like you can't go on.

4. They, like you, worship the ground your grandmother walks on.

Mamaw is the bomb. We all know this. We can all agree she makes the best sweet tea and biscuits and gravy in the world. When Mamaw is sick and in the hospital, we are like lost puppies without their mother.

5. They've literally known you all your life.

They have known you all their life, so they know your quirks, your deepest secrets, and pretty much every aspect of your life. They know all your embarrassing stories. They know you're weird, but still love you. It's always a judge free zone with them. They are your day ones. Even marriage, distances, and serious relationships can't come between you all.

6. They were always at your birthday party, even if no one else showed up.

When you're little, your parents insist on a party somewhere different every year. Our favorite party place was our local Baymont Hotel pool. We got to swim several times a year there thanks to all of the cousins.

7. They're the first to know if you have a new love interest and the first ones to meet him.

My cousins are the first to know if I have a new love interest. They have to be the ones to Facebook stalk them to make sure they look good and don't look sketchy. They are also the first ones to get to meet a new love interest. We come as a package deal, so we need each other's approval of a new boy coming into our lives.

8. They're always down to eat at your favorite restaurant with you.

My cousins love food just as much as I do. We bond over food. So if I ever want someone to go eat with me they are always willing to go.

9. They're always there for your big moments.

Graduation. Engagement. Wedding. Your first day of college. No matter what the event is, big or small, you know your cousins will be there for you rooting you on.

10. They keep you laughing.

Even on bad days, I can always count on my cousins to keep me laughing. We always have the giggles when we are together.

As you can see, I am very blessed to have cousins that are so good to me. I love that fact that we are so close with each other. I can't imagine living life without them!