My Favorite Job

To the sweetest little man, who isn't so little anymore:

From the moment I knew you existed I loved you. When your mom called to tell us you would be making your grand arrival into the world, rest assured there were happy tears and happy cheers and the biggest smiles you could imagine. 

From almost 3,000 miles away, I prayed for you and waited for you and loved you.

The weeks leading up to you, are some of the sweetest of memories. I got to spend the last few weeks of waiting, with your mom and dad. Did you know your mom and I are best friends? (and sisters too). I drove mommy around, and helped with dinner and the dog and got to go to her baby shower. Your mommy and I spent hours walking, talking, getting slurpees, and watching reruns of our favorite shows all while we impatiently waited for you. 

         

And then there you were. 

And my heart burst. You were tiny and precious with a head full of hair. I soaked up every possible snuggle I could in your first 8 days. As far as I was concerned, aunt life was officially the best life. 

The days and weeks kept going, with me much to far from you and your parents, and you changed daily before my eyes it seemed. Each facetime seemed to hold something brand new. Oh how I loved getting to be aunt "gaggie" when you first learned to talk. And to tell you the truth little man, the first day I heard you say aunt Maggie, it made my heart ache. You may not be as little anymore but you're still my little mini bff. I love exploring with you and snuggling with you and reading with you and listening to all of your many many words. You’re so smart and you’re kind and thoughtful and inquisitive. My heart still bursts when I see you.

You made me an aunt. Which as it turns out, is the best job I've ever had. 

This month I am linking up with "Two Writing Teachers" for a slice of life, daily writing challenge.