The Top 5 Lessons I’ve Learned as an Aunt

Nearly four years ago my life was turned upside down by two sets of twins, one set born on either side of my family. Within a matter of weeks I was an aunt to four tiny babies, and I was in love. It was astonishing to me that I could love my nieces and nephews with such an unconditional intensity. Being an aunt has been, thus far, the best part of my life and has taught me dozens of valuable life lessons. Below are The Top 5 Lessons I’ve Learned as an Aunt.

I’m writing this post out of nostalgia, but also as an encouragement. Even the oldest can learn from the youngest, and vise versa. Just keep your eyes and ears open. Oh, and don’t forget to check out our activity printables for kids on the @hyggefamilyprints page on Etsy.

1. They Taught Me to Slow Down

My nephew Reid inherited his walking speed from his great grandmother. He’s a snail. However, Reid chooses to be a snail because he is so observant. Things that everyone else might miss, Reid sees with extreme clarity and enthusiasm. An ant on the sidewalk, a Monarch butterfly floating by, a new mushroom popping out of the soil, or the sound of a train 20 miles away… Reid sees and hears it all. Then he takes the time to talk about what he has seen and think about it before he continues.

Sure, on one hand this slow way of living could be maddening to me, especially when we have places to be. But Reid is grasping a concept it took me nearly 27 years to learn. He is practicing hygge and appreciating the small things. When I remind myself of this fact, it’s easy to appreciate his observant nature.

2. They Taught Me to Enjoy the Little Things

My nieces could be entertained by anything, and I mean anything. When they were babies an empty water bottle would mesmerize them for hours. Snow falling is pure magic. A funny sound gets them rolling with laughter for hours. My nieces find joy in things I do not understand, but what a wonderful lesson. Especially at a time like this, a season of pandemic and pandemonium, we should all strive to enjoy the little things.

3. They Taught Me to Be Okay with Rejection

It’s difficult to be selfish when they are little babies or toddlers running around. Half of watching my nieces and nephews is making sure they don’t harm themselves or each other. Sometimes they are thankful for my help, and other times they are extremely ungrateful. That doesn’t change my servant heart, because I know that one day they will understand why I say no so many times. I’ve learned not to be so hurt when they get upset with me; when they pout and cry and don’t want anything to do with me. I know I’m only doing what is best for them, and that’s what counts. (Also, kids get over things fast, so the resentment never lasts long.)

4. I’ve Learned to Listen Well to the Needs of Others

Kids have trouble communicating their feelings and needs. At first my lack of understanding was so extremely frustrating to me. As an aunt, it took me much longer to learn the quirks of my nieces and nephews, what they like and don’t like. It took some time and a lot of effort, but I finally started to feel more in tune with each of their personalities. Honestly, it’s still a work in progress, but we all change as we grow older. My nieces and nephews have definitely taught me to listen well to the needs of others.

5. I’ve Learned a New Definition of Love

As some of you may have seen, my husband and I are expecting out first baby in December. I already love her so much I can’t even imagine the day I finally get to hold her in my arms. Before this pregnancy, my nieces and nephews gave me a glimpse of parental love. All four of them needed to spend time in the NICU. They were all so tiny and vulnerable. I remember watching them in their incubators and feeling a deep surge of protection and unconditional love. Suddenly my own schedule meant nothing, and I knew I would be there for them no matter what they may need.

Of The Top 5 Lessons I’ve Learned As An Aunt, this lesson is the one I hold most dear.

Thank you for taking the time to read The Top 5 Lessons I’ve Learned From As An Aunt. Be sure to subscribe for updates on new content, and check out other posts such as:

10 New Practices That Will Revolutionize 2020
When You are Deeply Tired on the Inside
7 Tips to Create a Hygge Morning Routine
14 Day Beginners Guide to Hygge Living

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Love Always,