There is no doubt that having a niece and nephew makes life so much more interesting and special. They bring so much joy and excitement into the family and you cant help but feel very overprotective of them. Although they aren't your own children, as an aunt or uncle, you are a parent/best friend/partner-in-crime all in one. So here is an open letter to my niece and nephew, so they know just how much their beautiful presence has brightened up my life.

Dear Niece and Nephew,

I remember when the news came to me that you were to be expected in a couple of months. I was overwhelmed with joy. Your due dates seemed so far away and I remember talking about doctors appointments and ultrasounds with your mothers. It all seemed so surreal. After a few months, I began to see you grow inside your mother. As you grew, her stomach significantly expanded. Although she would eventually say she had to waddle like a penguin, I always reminded her how wonderful it would feel once she held her little blessing in her arms.

Soon enough gender reveal parties were planned and the team girl and team boy divided up the family in a fun way. Deep down we all didn't care what the gender would be... as long as you were both strong and healthy. We cut two cakes and were surprised to see one with blue candy and one with pink candy. A boy and a girl. We instantly were overcome with such joy and relief to know that these little cousins were going to grow up together and look after each other.

As I impatiently awaited your arrivals, I started to become obsessed with all baby things. Clothes, toys, anything baby related would come up in most of my conversations with your mothers'. I was so proud to be an aunt that I would tell everyone I came across as soon as I got the chance to. The baby showers arrived and everyone took turns measuring your mothers' belly. As I sat there watching I knew it wouldn't be long before the doctors would be measuring your length and weight.

Finally the day came when I was told my nephew was born. I could feel my eyes welling up with happy tears as I saw the pictures on my phone and a few hours later I was holding you in my arms at the hospital. A month later I got to actually see and experience the birth of my niece. I remained surprisingly calm and never once faltered in my excitement throughout the entire labor experience. Perhaps, because I felt so honored and lucky to be able to be one of the first people that welcomed my niece into the world.

Now you are both sweet, happy, and healthy babies. You both make my days so much brighter and funnier. I will forever be thankful to be your Aunt and I strive to be an ideal role model for you both. You both can always count on me and I know I will learn so much from you as you will from me. Thank you for bringing love and joy into our family my little ones.

All the love,

Your Aunt