When they told me I was an aunt, I naturally envisioned only one of you who I would devote all my attention and time on. But then the day arrived when I significantly became “doubly blessed.” You were a twin and I was ecstatic. I eagerly anticipated your arrival for nine long months. I remember feeling four little feet, kicking and squirming. You were ready from the beginning to jump into life and I was ready to hold you both forever. Although you are now only 18 months old, you have taught me some valuable lessons about life I believe only babies are capable of teaching. So thank you, my precious nieces, for revealing aspects of life that I had forgotten, and reminding me of what’s important.

Thank you for being a picture of pure joy and radiating that joy to those around you. Our family was close before you arrived. We loved each other, kept up with traditions and valued family game nights. I thought the bond between us was already at its strongest, but when the two of you entered our world the unity we had heightened. You bring out the best in me and in the people I love most. Our family’s time together has more value because we have precious new lives to help grow and love. Your glowing eyes sparkle with curiosity and your easy laughter is contagious. You remind me to go through life joyfully and most importantly where that joy ultimately comes from.

Thank you for causing me to slow down, observe and realize what’s important. Watching you grow and learn has revealed to me the importance of little moments, and how fast life flashes by. I remember you opening your delicate eyelids and batting your long lashes. I remember your little smiles stretching across your faces while you slept. I remember your little fingers grasping mine while cuddled against my chest. I knew these were the little moments I wanted all throughout my life. They were soft, but unforgettable and reminded me to value the precious life God has given me and to pour into other lives around me, as well.

Thank you for reminding me what’s important in life and the importance of family. I did not know there was more room in my heart to love until that first moment I held you both in my arms. Although I am only your aunt, a feeling of motherhood swept over me from the second I saw you. When you first reached your arms out to me, my heart rejoiced that you wanted me, that you needed me. When you called me “auntie” for the first time, I cried with happiness. I can only imagine what hearing “mommy” for the first time will feel like. You have broken down my own heart--full of wanderlust--and have shown me a family of my own is worth having. Whereas, I used to only yearn for adventure and a life filled with endless travels, I know now that one day I want to settle. I want to hold my own little girls and watch them learn and grow. I want to build a family of joy for the Lord, filled with precious moments and children like you to love on.