Every girl has a special boy in their life that they will do anything for. Mine happens to be four years old and calls me Aunt Cami. I became an aunt when I was 15-years-old, and my nephew has been one of the biggest blessings in my life ever since. There are a few things I had to adjust to when I stepped into this role, but I can honestly say becoming Aunt Cami has been the greatest identity I’ve had yet.

Here are some things that I’ve learn about this prestigious position in the past four years:

1. You are never too old to play

Whether it is toy cars, light-sabers, ninja turtles or a four-wheeler ride, I will never be too old to tap into my inner child for my nephew. Running around and playing make believe is a key component in an aunt’s job, and I will never be too old to pretend with my nephew.

2. Patience is a necessity

My nephew loves to run around on the couch, make weird noises, pick up dogs twice his size and various other eccentric things. Although he may push my buttons, I must remember to have patience because he is still learning. No 4-year-old can just sit still!

3. Be ready to think on your feet

Kids are hard to predict. One day when I was babysitting, my nephew and I were snuggling watching TV, but within 10 minutes he was throwing up everywhere. That situation taught me very quickly to be ready to handle anything when with my little buddy.

4. Someone is always watching you

It is obvious that growing up is a lot of learning by observation. I have to remember this because I am an aunt. Anything I say or do can be soaked up like a sponge by a 4-year-old following behind me. Leading by example has been a important part of this role.

5. Cherish every moment

I am at Michigan State for most of the year, and every time I come home my nephew seems to be so much older than he was the last time I saw him. This has taught me to cherish all the little moments I have with him. All kids grow up so fast and if you blink, you’ll miss it all.

Being an aunt is a gift. It is a different hat to wear. It is something near and dear to my heart. Becoming an aunt has improved me as a person and motivates me to be the best version of myself. For the sake of the 4-year-old looking up at me, I excel to do my very best, show my best self, and teach him to be his best. I can’t wait to learn a lifetime amount about what it means to be an aunt.