Beyond the Pink Lines

Today is my nephew’s birthday, so I thought it was only fitting to dedicate this week’s blog post to being an aunt and embracing that role wholeheartedly during this season of life.

Being an aunt to the seven little ones in my life is something I don’t take lightly. James and I want to be as involved in their lives as possible, showing up for the everyday moments just as much as the big milestones. We want to be the people they know they can call for any reason, and we’ll answer—whether it’s 3 p.m. or 3 a.m. We want to help be part of the village it takes to raise them.

My biggest flex as an aunt? I know each of them as individuals. I know their favorite colors, what comforts them when they’re upset, and their latest obsessions—whether it’s characters, TV shows, or whatever has captured their attention that week. I know their go-to snacks, bedtime routines, and favorite songs. I’m there for school performances, sporting events, holidays, and even the random Tuesdays.

From the very beginning of each of their lives, I have loved them like my own. I will do whatever it takes to protect them, make them feel loved, remind them of their worth, and help them know that they are each a miracle. The world is a better place because they are in it. Life can be chaotic and messy, but there is beauty in the middle of it, and this world needs good humans. Alongside my siblings, we will do our best to help raise good humans.

Being an aunt has also been a gift during the waiting, the pain, and the grief of infertility and the loss of our children. The slobbery kisses, playtime, cuddles, story time, tucking them into bed at night, and all the giggles give me a glimpse of what being a mom might feel like. Loving these little ones has been one of the greatest blessings because it has shown me the unconditional love that only a child can give.

As the “fun” aunt and uncle, it’s our job—and honestly, our duty—to spoil them every chance we get. James and I recently decided that once each of them turns six, we’re starting a new birthday tradition. Instead of simply buying them a present, we’re giving them a “Yes Day.” Whatever they want to do—go to the museum, the zoo, the aquarium, a theme park, Build-A-Bear, or Chuck E. Cheese—we’ll make it happen. And if a present or two gets bought along the way, that’s okay too.

Ice cream for lunch? Sure. A day trip to Kansas City? Absolutely.

Experiences, quality time, and shared memories last a lifetime. When they’re adults, I hope they look back and remember that Aunt B and Uncle J were there—that we cared, that we loved them, and that we always showed up.

One day we may have our own little ones, and we will be overjoyed. But even then, we’ll continue showing up for every one of our nieces and nephews. We love them deeply, can’t imagine our lives without them, and are so thankful for each of them.

We’re also incredibly grateful that my siblings trust us to care for their children, to step in when needed, to support them, and to be part of helping them grow. It truly is one of the greatest honors of our lives.

At the end of the day, I truly love being an aunt. It isn’t just a title I have—it’s one of the greatest joys and purposes in my life. Loving these kids, cheering them on, comforting them, celebrating them, and simply getting to be part of their lives is a gift I never take for granted. While I continue to hope and pray for the day I become a mom, being their aunt has filled my heart in ways I never expected. It has given me purpose in this season, reminded me that love can take many beautiful forms, and shown me that showing up consistently matters. I will never stop being their biggest cheerleader, and I hope they always know just how deeply they are loved. To all my Litles: Amelia, Cora, Luke, Corbin, Parker, Eva and ElLie I love you to the moon and back, thank you for saving me.