Dear Little One,
I love you. I'm not your mommy or daddy, but I count myself lucky every day to be a part of your life. From the moment I knew you were coming (you were in your mommy's tummy), I could not wait to meet you. I remember the day you were born; it was one of the most important days of my life! I was so proud and excited to meet you and cuddle you for the first time. I bragged to all of my friends, always breaking out the latest pictures so that they could also see just how precious you were.
Just like your mommy and daddy, I take pride in all of your accomplishments. First words, learning to walk: they were all such exciting moments. I'm lucky that your parents shared them with me through pictures, videos, and updates. Even though I wasn't there for all of them, I loved hearing about how you continued to grow and learn, and I cheered you on no matter where I was. Just remember that I will always be one of your biggest fans (after all, you have so many people who love you).
I cherish every minute I get to spend with you. I love playing with you, whether its rolling matchbox cars across the entire house or singing the same silly song for hours on end. I'd do anything to hear your laugh and see your smile. When I can't be with you, seeing pictures and videos fill the gaps. It's not quite the same, but they never fail to make me smile. No matter how often I get to see you, know that you are always in my heart and on my mind.
I am always striving to be the best role model possible for you. I know that little eyes are watching me, and I want to make you as proud of me as I am of you. That will not be an easy task, but I'm up for the challenge. While you are still little, you see me as "cool" and "fun," but I'm not naive, I know those days will pass. As you grow, I will become "embarrassing" and "lame," but don't you worry, I'll love every second of it.
You have taught me so many things: responsibility, accountability, how to care for another human being. I cannot thank you enough for all of these lessons that you didn't even realize you were teaching me. Someday, I might have children of my own. But you will always be my first baby. My relationship with you is preparing me for the day that I become a parent. You continue to give me countless learning experiences, and I know all of these things shape me into the person I am today. And even though my own child will share my DNA, no one could change the relationship I have with you.
I promise to always be here for you. I promise to always make you laugh (no matter how ridiculous I have to act). I promise to snuggle with you for as long as you'll let me (in my eyes, you will never be too old). I promise to always be honest with you. I promise to be a listening ear. As you grow, I promise to never judge you for the decisions that you make. Remember that nothing you do could change my love for you. Never be ashamed or scared to ask for help.
Thank you for always making me smile. It's impossible to have a bad day if I am with you. Thank you for showing me love. Even if it seems like the world is against me, I know you will be on my side. You bring nothing but joy into my life. People say that the strongest type of love is that between a parent and a child, but even though I'm not your parent, I cannot imagine a fiercer love than the love I have for you.
I will always be here for you, no matter what. Never be afraid to call on me.
My love forever and always,
Me
