Being An Aunt.

I received a very sweet message the other day. It was very unexpected which also made it that much more special to me.

"First of all--hope you had a wonderful birthday!!! Secondly, I just wanted to say that you are the most AMAZING aunt/mom to your nephews...your love and excitement is so inspiring and authentic. I know one day they will truly realize how lucky they are to have you in their lives. Your posts about them always make smile Just wanted to tell you thanks for the setting the bar so high for what it means to the Best Aunt Ever!!! I hope someday to come close to you!!!"

Anyone that knows me is well aware that my nephews mean the absolute world to me. But, no one told me how much MY life would change after they came into it. No one told me that once I held my nephews for the first time; my life would be turned upside down in the most amazing way possible. My priorities changed. I changed.

I can be a kid again.
No, I don't care who is watching me dance around with this ridiculous hat on singing into a pretend microphone because it's making my nephews laugh and your opinion doesn't matter. Their laughter means more to me then your glances of disapproval. Lighten up. I get to act silly, blow bubbles, play on the playground, paint a birdhouse, make a gingerbread house, and ride a mechanical horse around the mall and not look like a 32 year old creep.

I can buy things that they really don't need, but are awesome.
Mom and dad can buy the boring and practical things. I get to buy the fun and cool stuff and look like the real hero. Let's not forget to mention that I also don't have to deal with the consequences! Candy, games, 132 bouncy balls, really cool Minion onesies, dungeon tents, super loud drum set? Play your heart out boys! Mom and Dad will love it. 

I can give them back.
Once I'm done filling them up with all the sugar and letting them run around like wild animals; I get to give them back. I love them dearly and I soak up every single second that I am with them. But, sometimes, I like a little quiet. Doesn't everyone?

At least two people think I am still cool and rules just don't apply.
Sure, Aunt TiTi will let you eat another cookie and stay up another 15mins!  What's that? Dance party? Sure!

The love I feel for  them is unlike any other.
From the open mouth kisses to seeing their expression change when you really do kiss away their boo boos; I never knew I could love this much. Although they are not my children, from the day I held each of them, the amount of protection and love I have for them... I don't even know how to put into words.

They are my best friends.