Being an auntie

In the past couple of weeks I have been able to see all of my nieces and nephews.

I LOVE that time.

The oldest, Jackson, is going to be a senior in high school.
She amazes me.
Ranked in the top 10% of her class (or would that be 5%)
Is so very kind.
Making it through those issues of high school.
One more year and then she is, hopefully, off to Minneapolis to the University of Minnesota.
Or so the whole family hopes!

Then, Ry.
I can remember the summer I met Ry.
I hope to never forget.
He was the goofiest 8 year old boy I had ever met.
I loved him instantly.
So sweet and such a boy at the same time.
Preparing for a summer of hockey camps and working with my brother....

Then, Rik.
I ran over to their house before leaving for Kansas...
She had printed out practice math worksheets.
For fun, she was completing multiplication tables.
I wanted to hug her.
As a middle-schooler, it is a time of change.
But again, she will stay sweet.

The last time I saw my California niece, she was a little under the weather.
She wanted to nap through dinner and was able to turn down french fries.
That’s an indication of how ill she was.
Who can turn down fries?
I am hoping to see them again soon,
but with the move to Kansas I know I am limiting it a bit.

And, of course, the toddler I had not seen for 5 weeks.
He walks.
I expected he would take some steps.
Not love to be chased throughout the house.
Minnesota family prepare- a little tornado is on his way!
He talks.
He eats toast for breakfast...

I would, for nothing in the world, give up my nieces and nephews.
I LOVE LOVE LOVE being an aunt.