Being 21-years-old, I have friends on both sides of the spectrum: some party every weekend and others have started careers and families. I have gotten to see some of my best friends transform into wonderful mothers. While I don’t have any biological nieces or nephews of my own, I’ve been named an ‘honorary aunt’ to some awesome tiny humans. Here’s why it is so awesome to have this title:
Growing up. Some of my best friends who have had children, I’ve known since grade school. Because we have remained such good friends, I plan to be in their babies’ lives as much as possible. Being an ‘honorary aunt’ allows me to watch them grow up. As much as I love being in their lives while they toddle around and babble I can’t wait to see how they grow and change into their own unique person. I’ve been lucky enough to hold them until my arms have gotten sore. I’ve gotten to be apart of some of the great ‘firsts’ in their life as well. Their first trip to the aquarium, their first trip to the pool, even a first time at a wedding. I’ve had to a chance to grow up with their mothers and now I get a chance to watch their babies grow. That makes me so happy.
Presents! Because I’m an ‘honorary aunt’, I automatically get to spend a ton of money on these adorable babies. Having a “niece” in Wyoming, I have managed to send her packages that have been nothing short of miraculous. Clothes. Toys. Books. I go all out. It’s hard to walk past the baby section in any store without seeing something and going “Oh, Ellie would love that.” And being a Chippewa, I can’t help but share my school spirit. You better believe that these tiny humans have their fair share of CMU gear as well.
Lessons. My friends, since becoming mothers, have changed into amazing women (Not that they weren’t amazing before!). They work so hard to do everything that’s best for their kids. Because of this, they have a different perspective on life than I do. It’s great to hear their opinions on different topics. And their babies have also taught me lessons. Who would have thought that a tiny baby could make you so…un-selfish (I think that’s the best way to put it). I’m not even their mother and I can’t help but want the world for them.
They’re not mine! While I love these babies to death, one of the best things about being an ‘honorary aunt’ is that it allows me to spoil, love on and play with them, but then hand them back to mommy when they start crying. Being able to do so gives me so much respect for my friends. They juggle so much. I’m at a point in my life where I know I would struggle being a mother, and they do it so well, I’m almost envious. I hope that when I’m a mother, I can be as awesome as they are!
My “nieces” and “nephews” they have made a huge impact on my life. I don’t get to see them as often as I would like, but just seeing a new picture of them makes my day. I’m so glad that I get to play a small role in their life and I can’t wait to continue being there for them.
On that note, Ellie and Kenai: Auntie Sam loves you! I will see you both soon. Mallorie and Brianna: Thanks for always being my best friends. I love you both so much and I’m so proud of you!
