I have seven beautiful niblings (nieces and nephews). The oldest is now in high school and the youngest is learning how to walk. We each have our own special relationship, but the journey to this point rivaled a Hallmark movie.

The eldest two came into my life before I was old enough to truly appreciate the responsibilities and amazing perks of being an aunt. In many ways, we have grown up together. I hope that they saw my mistakes and realized them for what they were rather than my behavior becoming an example of the decisions they should make. That's not to say I was a terrible, misbehaving kid, but I didn't take every opportunity that was given to me, and I want them to be able to thrive. They have shown me that my parents' wishes for me were well-founded as I now have those same wishes for them.

I am also much better with babies than anyone else my own age (that doesn't have children of their own). Being an aunt is knowing about tummy time, how many scoops of formula go into a bottle, and knowing when chorus concerts and Kindergarten graduations are- but it's also about getting to be the person that takes them out for ice cream past their bedtime on a summer day, riding off-road vehicles well into the night, and always saying yes when that excited, little voice says "one more time!"

It's the most rewarding job I've ever had or ever heard of. And, I don't have to do any of the reprimanding or any of the responsibilities that come with being a parent. My sisters are really some of the best moms, but being an aunt is a much better gig.