Author: Jordanna Romano

Hey bro,

I remember when I found out that there would be a new addition to the family, YOU! Even though as an only child I loved the attention, it would get lonely at times. I was glad that I was going to have someone to play with,.

I wanted to have a younger sister to play dress up and my toys with. That wasn't the case. When mom told me that you were going to be a boy, I was pretty upset. I can't do all the things that I wanted to do if I had a brother and not a sister! 

Regardless, when I saw you for the first time in our mother's arms, I was in awe. I'd never seen a newborn before, so it amazed me on how small my baby brother was.

Looking back, I'm glad that I have a brother and not a sister. Throughout the years, we have created a bond that only a brother and sister can have. Even though you are younger than me, you are protective of me, your older sister.

Like any other brother and sister relationship, you mess with me and annoy me, but when and if anyone else does, you make sure that they regret it. I'm the same way, no one messes with my little brother…except me.

As the years are going by, I'm watching you grow up and become a young man right before me. I can't see into the future, but I know it holds great things for you.

I hope when we're all grown up, with our own families and lives, we still have that bond that we had when we were younger, and even now.

Thank you for being there for me and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Love, 

Your Older Sister

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From when you were pregnant with me, to now, there were so many things that you had done for me. Looking back, I realized that there's things that i have overlooked and now appreciate, So mother, thank you for…

1. Giving me life, literally

2. Being not just a mother, but a friend.

3. Cleaning up my messes, then and now.

4. Sacrificing so much for me.

5. Sitting through my soccer games, even though it was painful to watch.

6. Helping me with my school projects, I wouldn't have done well without you.

7. Driving me wherever I needed to go, whether it was school an hour away or a concert in the city.

8. Working multiple jobs so I can have a roof over my head.

9. Listening to me go on and on about things that mattered to me then, but not now.

10. Giving birth to my younger brother, he's cool I guess. 

11. Lending me money when I needed or wanted something.

12. Getting me little things when you're out and about.

13. Staying strong, when it was hard to.

14. Making me laugh when I needed to.

15. Instilling family values in me.

16. Being there for me through the good and the bad.

17. Not giving up on me.

18. Being my number one supporter.

19. Always having my back.

20. Making every one of my birthdays special.

21. Being someone that not just me, but my future kids will look up to.

22. Being patient with me.

23. Helping me become a better me.

24. Nagging me on certain things, it sinks in…eventually.

25. Loving me unconditionally.

If you haven't heard already, Target had made the decision to make it so you can go the restroom and changing room that corresponds to your gender identity. This has been a big debate among people across the country.

As someone that is a supporter of the LGBT community, this is great news! A transgender can feel comfortable, going into a bathroom, that they feel is appropriate, even if they haven't fully transitioned. This is a step forward for them.

With this being said, there is a problem. With this freedom, it means that ANYONE can go to any bathroom they want to. Meaning, a man, who doesn't fall into the LGBT category can waltz into the women's bathroom without a problem. Who knows what could happen then? 

There have been many cases where men have taken advantage of this. Back in September, two male students at the University of Toronto(which has gender neutral bathrooms) were caught filming female students showering.  

Also, a man who claimed he was transgender going by the name Jessica got arrested for assaulting several women at a showering facility in a women's shelter.  

I don't want young woman and mothers to fear going into a public bathrooms. Then again, I don't want anyone that's transgender not to feel comfortable using them as well.

In order to make both parties feel safe, there should be more one stall bathrooms, more known as the "family stalls"in public places. With this, EVERYONE can use the bathroom and feel safe.

It's a shame that there even a debate about this. I can't for the day, where everyone of all genders can feel safe in not just using the bathroom, but in everything else they do.

When you first made the first move and contacted me, I had no idea what were your intentions were. Did you just want someone to talk to or did you just want someone to f*ck? I honestly was sick of guys talking to me just for sex. Deep down, I had a feeling you were going to make an impact on me. 

Months passed and we would talk, all day everyday. We had this connection and you made me feel special, wanted, loved, feelings a guy had never given me before. With each conversation we had, I was falling more and more in love with you.

One afternoon, we were texting, like we usually would. Everything seemed normal, nothing out of the ordinary. Hours passed, and I didn’t hear from you, which was strange. You would usually respond in a timely manner, but I assumed that you just got really busy. I shook it off. You would text me in the morning right?

Wrong.

A few days went passed with no word from you. This wasn’t like you. So many thoughts were going through my head. “Is everything okay?” “Did I do something wrong?” “Why is this happening?”

Going through each day without hearing from you didn’t feel right. It affected me more than I thought it would. I wasn’t as happy as I was before, and I was always feeling down and just not myself. I know a guy shouldn’t make me happy, but you did. 

Weeks went by, and I was trying to accept the fact that you probably weren’t going to come back. It was hard, but I knew I had to move on. I had little hope that you were.

One day, I get a text, and it was from none other than you. You explained that I didn’t do anything like I’d thought. I explained how your absence in my life was like hell. You felt so bad about the pain you caused me. I asked you to promise me not to leave me again. You promised. Everything was back to how they were supposed to be.

Or so I thought.

We would talk everyday like we usually would, but something was different. My feelings for you weren’t as strong as before. Within the next couple weeks, I began to see you more as a good friend than a lover, and I was okay with that.

History started to repeat itself. I didn’t hear from you like usual after days of not talking. Seriously, again? That promise I asked you to make? Broken. I never would’ve thought you were going to do this again, but I guess I was wrong.

I’m not gonna lie. It hurt, but I realized that people are meant to come and go from your life for a reason. I guess you left because you served your purpose. 

You are such a great guy and I’m so glad you were in my life for the time you were. I’ve moved on, but if you ever have the urge to talk to me again, as friends, I’m here.

And always will.

Taurus. The second sign of the Zodiac. We have perfections and imperfections like every other sign. Here's what you need to know before dating one of us. 

We're loyal

Taurus' are known as one of the most loyal signs. Once you get in a relationship with one of us, we're in it for the long haul. Unless you do something to betray our trust, you're stuck with us. 

We get jealous easily

This is a trait that we wish we didn't have, and we can't help it. Sometimes we're just insecure. Be honest and not keep secrets from us and we will be just fine.

We're very sensual

When it comes to affection, we love receiving, as well as giving it. Whether it's during sex or just spending time with you, we absolutely love it, so please show us some affection. We'll be sure to return the favor.

We're stubborn as hell

This is probably the most known trait of a Taurus. Once we have our mind set on something, it's hard changing it. We won't back down from an argument. It's our way or the high way. This explains why we hate change so much. We'll do anything to avoid it.

We don't have a temper

We're pretty calm people, and don't really get angry. Get us really pissed off though, and you'll regret it. Trust me when I say this, it's not pretty. You have been warned. 

We're very protective

We love and care for the people most important in our lives. With that being said, if someone messes with any of them, we'll be one of the first people to defend them. 

We're dependable and genuine

We always keep our word, and will do anything to help you out. There's no point in going back on our word unless it's an important reason. We would rather have a few good friends around than a bunch of fake ones.

We're romantics

We love the idea of love and falling in love. We want to be with someone who is loyal, stable, and affectionate like we are. It may take some time for us to get a feel for who you are and to trust you, but I promise you that it's worth the wait.

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It's always talked how being short is a burden, but what about the perks? Being short is something you can't change so why not embrace it?

1. You can shop in the children's section

Children's clothing tend to be cuter and even cheaper than women's clothing. Looking cute at a cheap price? Yes please!

2. You can get the kids' menu at restaurants

if you're a picky eater, this is for you. Does the restaurant not have food you like? Order off the kids menu!

You can have those finger food you like, most likely without being questioned about your age. If they ask, you're 12. 

3. You can wear as high as heels as you want

Wanna wear those 6 inch heels? Go ahead! You won't be towering over anyone, plus it'll elongate your legs making you look nice and tall!

4. You're the perfect size for cuddling

You'll always be little spoon because you fit perfectly. I mean who doesn't like being the little spoon?

5. You'll never be forgotten in pictures

In most pictures you'll be in the front. With this being said, you'll never be forgotten!

6. You can fit in small spaces

You can fit in small spaces, that most people average height can fit in. You'll be a pro at hide and seek.

7. People underestimate you

People will think that since you're so small that you can't do much. They won't see it coming, you can do anything!

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Do you remember as a kid taking those family vacations down to the beach? I bet you'd used to love playing in the sand, and going into the ocean. Now that you're older, there is even more reasons on why you will love the beach! 

The Sun Rising and Setting

There's just something about the sight of the sun rising and setting that is just breathtaking. The mix of the reds, the purples, and the yellows in the sky is amazing to see up close, with the sun reflecting off the blue ocean.

You'll Never Get Bored

There's so much to do at the beach, that will keep you occupied. You can collect shells that wash upon the shore, build sandcastles, swim in the water, the list goes on. 

It's Relaxing

With the sand in between your toes, and the sound of the waves crashing along the shore, it creates a nice tranquil feel. This is perfect for reading a book on the beach, or even taking a nap.

It's Free

The beach is open for everyone, and there's no need to pay to get in! The only thing you would probably need to pay for is the tolls, getting down there, which all depends on your location from the beach. 

Good for Your Skin

The salt water in the ocean will heal your cuts and sores. Also the sodium chloride will help with your acne and cleanse your skin. Forget using products that will damage your pores and possibly cause scarring and use nature's remedy. Trust me, your skin will thank you.

Hey.

I may know who you are, I may not, but I know one thing is for sure. One day, I will no longer be a virgin because of you.

 I've always been told that having my virginity is precious, and once it's gone, it's gone. Here are a three things you need to know, to make the night I lose it to you a night to remember.

Be Romantic

I must admit, I can be a bit of a romantic, so I would love the whole rose petals and candles sorta thing.  I hope that we are two people that are madly in love when this happens.

I want to lose it to someone who won't leave the night or the morning after they've deflowered me. Someone who I hope to spend the rest of my life with.

When I Say Stop, Please Stop

They're probably going to be points where it's going to hurt like hell and it's too much for me. With that being said, if I say stop, please stop. Don't push me past my limits and what I can handle. 

Cuddle With Me Afterwards

I've always loved to cuddle and I would love the cuddle with you, after a night of passionate loving making. I want to be held by the man who I'm in love with, you.

I'm looking forward to this big milestone in not just my life, but in our relationship. 

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We all have one of those days, where either everything turns out wrong or you wake up in the bad mood that lasts throughout the day. With doing these things, it will hopefully improve your mood and make your day easier to handle. 

1. Take a Hot Bath/Shower

Go take a hot bath and shower. The hot water will relax your muscles and ease your anxiety that you may have. Also, add epsom/sea salts, oils, honey and even milk in the bath to help detoxify your skin. They will leave your skin feeling nice and smooth. 

2. Listen to Music

Listening to upbeat music increases your mood and releases dopamine, the "feel good neurotransmitter". It lowers the stress hormone cortisol as well. There are plenty of playlists with upbeat songs on Spotify.

3. Read a book

Dive into a good book. Reading takes you into another world, making you forget about all the daily struggles you currently have, even for a little while. It makes you less stressed when you come back to reality.

4. Exercise

Whether it is taking a trip to the gym or just taking a walk around the neighborhood, exercising will reduce stress and make you feel so much better afterwards!   

5. Talk to someone

Go to talk to someone, vent or rant about what's on your mind. I promise that you will feel so much better.

 If you have no one to talk to, or you don't want to talk to anyone you know, there are apps and websites such as Vent and Muttr which you can do this anonymously. 

6. Take a Nap

Take a quick cat nap (20-30 minutes are recommended). You won't risk your body or mind overloading plus you'll feel refreshed afterwards.

Hey Cuz,

Coming from a small family, there wasn't really any kids, so when I found out that your mother was expecting, I couldn't help getting excited. I mean, there was going to be a new baby in the family! 

Even before you were born, I had all these ideas on things I wanted to do with you like going to the park to play, or to the spa to get our nails done, girly things.

Seeing you for the first time, and holding you in my arms was such a magical experience, I already felt a bond between us already, a bond that can't be broken.

I don't really see you as much as I would like, but watching you becoming a newborn, to a toddler to who you are today is amazing and I'm so glad I can witness this growth right before my eyes.

From when we do spend time together, I've realized how much of an impact I have on you. 

When I walk in the door, you get so excited and run into my arms, screaming my name. You always want to be with me and spend time with me, not caring about anyone else. It really makes me feel special and even loved.

You're like the younger sister I never had.

You are a ray of sunshine and I love you so much. I can't wait to continue watching you grow being the best person you can be.

Love,

Your "Sister/Cousin/Best friend"

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