To my baby nephew,

I was only 19 when you were born - just barely an adult, and busy with my own hectic life and responsibilities. I was a freshman in college at the time, I attempted to balance two jobs, and since then, life has only become busier and more frustrating.

All the same, meeting you was the calm in my storm. You were such a happy and peaceful baby, and I am so thankful that I've been blessed with the chance to watch you grow and learn.

When I look at you, I see an infinite number of possibilities. As you explore the world each day, laughing (and sometimes crying) at the things that you discover, you are slowly evolving into the person that you will be forever.

As of right now, you love music, Mickey Mouse Club House, baby dolls, and snuggles; you're a fun-loving and mischevious little 2-year-old who is smart beyond your years. Amazingly, you grow taller and more talkative each and every time that I see you, and I marvel at how much you've changed since the first time that I held you in that hospital room 2 years ago.

As I continue to help you and watch you grow, I can't help but wish for you to stay this young forever. The passing of time will inevitably mold you into in a responsible and thoughtful young man, rendering baby dolls and Mickey Mouse both things of the distant past. All the same, I urge you to hold onto that carefree innocence for as long as you possibly can.

I say this because I was the type of girl who always yearned to be older; adulthood seemed so big and important, and I pulled away from my adolescence quickly and without looking back. Now, as a college senior who reminisces on my life up until this point, I can't help but miss the simple fun that I always had while growing up with your Aunt Rachel.

It's true that life won't always be easy. Eventually, you will learn to be strong and independent in your own valid and unique ways. But all the while, be sure to hold onto that silly and cheerful demeanor of yours through whatever life might bring you. You only get to be a kid once, so treasure it.

That being said, I'm optimistic and excited to see what your future holds; you're a bright, beautiful child with an entire lifetime of love and happiness waiting in store. And if I could leave you with any piece of advice, it would be for you to always remember that I am here for you, unconditionally. I will be your Aunt, your friend, your sidekick or your confidant - anything that you need as you navigate this new and unfamiliar world. After all, I love you! You are my youngest baby nephew, and you are precious to me.

Sincerely, Your Loving Aunt