Being an Aunt, Part I

I am blessed, blessed to be an Aunt 12 times over. Sixteen years ago today was the first time I became one.  A beautiful baby girl was born, to my eldest sister, with a shock of blonde hair and dazzling blue eyes.  I had almost no experience with babies and was slightly terrified to hold her. The first time I did, I sat in the middle of my sisters king size bed so all I had was cushion around me.  I was in love.  Over the next few months I watched in amazement as she slowly developed into a bright eyed curious little thing; smiling and talking to me in her little baby sounds.  My sister said she liked to talk to me.  She still does, thankfully. 

I get to have all the fun; my siblings have to do all the work as parents and I get to laugh and spoil them to the best of my ability.  Sometimes it isn't all fun, like when I got cornered by my 8 and 10 year old nieces and they asked what sex was.  How do you answer that question?....I'll tell you how, with a question!  I get to hear all the secrets, and laugh hysterically over nonsense.  I get to share adventures and always be cool.  The best part is that you get to love them.

That first little one that settled so deeply in my heart is 16 today and I am moved beyond words that I have been able to be a part of her life. I am touched each time she calls me just to talk.  I hope she knows how precious she is to me and how much I love and miss her every day because she is so far away.