DH heard the story on the news, and I think it is great! What a fun story!
As for same birthdays. You know, when kids become adults and go out into the world, have their own families and lives, do you think it will really matter that they shared parties growing up? I think sharing parties is probably outweighed by all the fun they had growing up together.
My girls are 6 days short of a year apart. The school cut off falls between their birthdays, so they are in the same grade. So far, it has been nothing but good - having great big birthday parties together, sharing toys, sharing activities - it's like having a built-in playmate and best friend 24/7. My brother was less than a year younger than me, and we loved growing up together.
Denae