There is one thing in my life that is better than ice cream, pizza, front row seats at a concert, and even better than winning ten million dollars.That one person is my niece. I speak for all aunts when I say that taking on that role is the best gift in the world. There are so many amazing elements to being an aunt that make it so awesome. Here are the best eight things about being an aunt.

1. Laughing... A lot.

Kids are hilarious and I have lost count of how many times my niece has made be double over laughing. From tickle fights to made up words, there are always laughs to be had with your niece or nephew

2. Being there when they experience their firsts.

When you're an aunt, sometimes you're lucky and you get to experience first steps, first laugh, first word, or even first trip to the beach. Those moments are so special and unlike any other and you will remember them forever.

3. Getting to be a kid again.

Whether it's playing together on the playground or coloring a picture, it's fun to go back in time and experience childhood all over again. I would be lying if I said I didn't feel giddy going down the curly slide.

4. Learning the responsibilities of caring for a child.

The great part about having a niece or nephew is learning the ropes of caring for a child without it actually being your child; you have the opportunity for practice. You can prepare yourself for when you have a child of your own by changing diapers, feeding them, and even just playing with them.

5. Spoiling your niece or nephew.

I love to buy my niece new toys or clothes and watch the excitement on her face when I give them to her. Plus, you can sneak in that "My Aunt is the Best" t-shirt.

6. Your niece or nephew is your best friend.

At least right now while my niece is young, she gets excited to see me and I love to hang out with her. Teaching her new things and figuring out her interests is so much fun.

7. Knowing that they are a piece of you.

Whenever I look at my niece, I see similarities between us and it's so amazing to know that she is a legitimate part of me.

8. You have at least one person that thinks you're cool.

Whenever you doubt yourself or you're having a bad day, you remember that cute little face and remind yourself that they think you're awesome. Their opinion is way better than anyone else's, right?

9. The random hugs.

Sometimes, I'll just be playing with my niece and she will randomly hug me. Those moments are the ones that make my smile bigger and my day brighter.

10. You get to give them back.

Being an aunt is awesome because after a long day of babysitting and giving your niece or nephew nonstop attention, you get to give them back to your sibling! Sorry, sis!

11. Watching them grow.

One day you are meeting your niece or nephew in the hospital, and the next day they are running around and speaking in full sentences. It is so incredible yet so sad to watch your sibling's child grow older. Half of you wants them to be a baby forever, but the other half wants to see what they will become.