I know that you're not old enough to read this, and I know that you were born only a short 10 months ago, but we already have such an incredible bond. The day I found out you were coming I was beyond excited because it meant I was going to be an aunt for the very first time.

It's hard for me to imagine you as anything other than the innocent, smart, and bright-eyed little girl you are right now. The one that somehow figured out how to take her dad's credit card from his wallet and empty an entire box of tissues in less than 60 seconds. Don't ever let this world change that. In no time you'll be one, and I'll be 19. I take advantage of every chance I get to see you because the time I spend away at school you seem to be growing up without me. Before you know it you'll be off to school, and I'll be finished with school. Then you'll be graduating fifth grade, and maybe by then you'll have a couple of baby cousins of your own to fawn over.

Someday you'll be able to read this, and I want to give you a little advice.

1. Do not let anyone make you feel like you're not good enough.

I don't think they could even if they tried because you were born into an incredibly supportive and loving family, and I don't think there will be a day where they don't remind you of how special you are.

2. Embrace your flaws.

You are beautiful and I don't want you to ever believe otherwise.

3. Do not ever give up on your dreams, regardless of how big or small they may be.

I'm already so incredibly proud of you and you're not even walking yet.

4. Always stand up for yourself.

Now this one took me a little while to learn, but once I figured it out my whole world seemed to change.

5. Eventually. you will be old enough to date.

I know your parents don't want to think about it quite yet but it will happen. I want you to know that you can always come and talk to me about absolutely anything, I like to think of myself as the cooler version of your mom. Also, I want to instill in you now, that you deserve the absolute world and you shouldn't settle for anything less. In addition to that, If anyone ever hurts you, they will have to deal with me afterward.

6. If it wasn't incredibly clear already, I want you to know just how much you mean to me and how much I love you already.

I know these feelings will only grow as you do. I look forward to watching you learn, grow, and turn into the incredible young woman I know you're going to be. I am so lucky to call myself your aunt.

I also want to have it in writing that I plan to spoil you rotten.

Love, your favorite aunt.