Dear Niece...a letter from your aunt

Sweet Emily,

I became an aunt for the first time, almost nine years ago. Long before I had plans to become a mama myself. Little Miss P changed my world in so many ways; she was the first child I loved, and she was the "practice baby" for all of her aunties and uncles. From learning the hard way which is the best diaper for blow outs or all the awesome different uses for these, we used her as the guinea pig!

Emily is in Huggies Swaddlers size one, which is what her mama reaches for every time! Between the GentleAbsorb Liner that gives a special cushion between baby's skin and the mess to help prevent rashes, to the higher pocketed waistband to prevent diaper blow outs! They get bonus points from this natural minded auntie because they are fragrance and lotion free. In both our homes, mama and auntie stock up on great deals on Natural Care Wipes because they are soft, thick and use a simple formula without all the extra stuff. So Emily's bottom stays clean, fresh and happy! 

Recently our family has experienced a bit of a baby boom, hasn't it? You were born a week before your cousin, DJ, and you're helping tip our family's scale of the boy and girl ratio!

This week as we settle into our new home, that only 10 minutes away from you instead of almost 70 minutes, I reflect on what it will mean that I get to be closer to you and your older brother. How I will get to be a more involved role in your life. I didn't get to have any extended family around me as I was growing up, so I plan to cash in on this experience with you!

I don't have a ton of words of wisdom to share with you just yet, but I wanted to give you a few insights on what you can expect from me as an aunt.

Be yourself. Always, be yourself. It sounds cliche but in a world of constant comparisons, perhaps to your brother, other cousins, or other children - you do you, girl. You were preciously and fearfully made, God knit you together to be exactly as you were meant to be. Embrace that self, and fiercely guard it. It'll be fun to see how your puzzle piece in the family fits in and stands apart from everyone, but always remember that you are you!

Always know that I am here for a snuggle, a shoulder to cry on, or an ear to listen to your troubles without the true threat of grounding you ;) Your secrets will always be safe with me, and I will do my best to help you through it. I can't wait for our future covert conversations!

Your older girl cousins, Penny and Ruby, already adore you. You don't have to do much more than to smile and look cute to get their attention - and I know that they are excited to round you up and include you in their shenanagans!

Always come to me when you're looking for a good deal! ;)

While I may be the adult, and I hope that I will have things to teach you, also know that I am sure to learn a lot from you, sweet girl.

I can't wait to see what our journey is in this life together. Your parents will always be first in your heart, but I am waiting with open arms for that second hug.

Love,
your Auntie B.

Disclosure: Today's post was sponsored by Huggies Diapers and Sam's Club, 

but all opinions are my own!