SPOKANE COUNTY, Wash. — KREM 2 introduced viewers to the Paolino twins six years ago, when they were celebrating a unique Golden Birthday. Wednesday, the Paolino twins turned 18.
Sophia and Luca turned 12 on Dec. 12, 2012, or 12/12/12. It's a phenomenon that happens just once in a century.
On that date, the Paolino twins were not the only ones celebrating. There were quite a few people reportedly getting married and buying lottery tickets because it was seen as a lucky day.
An Alabama boy also turned 12 that day. According to news reports, he was born at 12:12 p.m.
Now, the twins are all grown up. The seniors at Mount Spokane High School are both athletes.
Luca wrestles, golfs and runs cross country. Sophia plays volleyball, golf and volunteers often.
In 2012, Luca expressed a strong dislike for math that Sophia couldn't relate to. Years later, that has not changed.
"Still the same as sixth grade, I don't like math at all," Luca said.
With graduation approaching, the twins are preparing to go their separate ways. Luca is still figuring out what is next for him after high school, while Sophia will off to the University of Tampa in the fall.
Luca wants to pursue a career in cyber security with the CIA. Sophia is considering cyber security as well, or nursing.
Their 18th birthday may not be a golden one, but it is still special because they are together. And they will always have 12/12/12.
"It's kind of nice because anywhere you go you have someone in the same position as you," Sophia said.
"It's definitely a lot better being able to share it with somebody," Luca said.
A similar date will come at the beginning of the next century. It will be 01/01/01, or Jan. 1, 2101.