In life, we acquire many different titles. Sister, daughter, friend, neighbor, co-worker, student — the list can go on and on. Although these titles are great, they don't quite compare to my personal favorite: aunt.
I was 19-years old when I first found out I was going to be an aunt. My emotions were high, after all, WE were having a baby. Not just my sister and brother-in-law; my whole family was having a baby.
Nine (long) months later, my niece was born. I fell in love with her — her eyes, her smile, her giggle and the way she would hold onto my finger as she fell asleep. I thought my life was perfect at that very moment, but I was wrong. A couple months later, we found out that my brother and sister-in-law were now expecting a little bundle of joy. Now my life was perfect. My heart was filled with so much love for my niece and unborn nephew.
I fell in love all over again the minute I got to meet him. There was this incredible feeling I had whenever he would look up at me and smile or when he would reach for my hand when he was sleeping in my arms. I felt like he already knew how much he was going to be spoiled and I was OK with that.
I have never, in my life, felt something quite as amazing as the love I have for the both of them. Two years have passed since I first became an aunt. Two years filled with love from the most precious babies. Two years filled with cuddles, giggles, play time and lots and lots of diapers. Being an aunt is more than all of that, though.
Being an aunt has helped me grow. I have learned so much from my niece and nephew and they are still so young. I have learned how to be patient. I have learned how to love in a much more meaningful way. I have learned how to be a parent without actually being one. I never knew that one-year-old and two-year-old's could teach me so much in such a short amount of time.
There is truly no better feeling than seeing the look on your niece/nephew's face when they see you. Their faces light up; they get so excited and it makes you feel like you have a purpose now. Being an aunt is the best thing in the world and I wouldn't trade it in for anything.
To my babies, I am so grateful to have you both in my life. I hope you know that I will always be there for you. I will lend a shoulder to cry on and an ear to listen. I will support you always. I will never judge you by your mistakes. I will protect you and guide you but, most importantly, I will always love you.
