nora elizabeth

I'm officially an aunt!

It is amazing to think you can love someone so much despite the fact that you met them a few short minutes ago. Nora Elizabeth decided to make her arrival Monday evening, a few days past her due date (no socialite shows up to a party on time, anyway). 

Notice those chunky little cheeks? That might be because her mom had those cheeks as well when she was a baby, or because she came out weighing 9 lbs. 4 oz.!  My sister deserves a trophy for that alone. Can I get an Amen?

Ok, enough bragging. 

I never knew I would feel such an immediate connection to a newborn (especially one that I didn't push out myself) but this little lady has already stolen my heart using those wrinkly little fingers. 

I already find myself wondering what she'll be like in 5 years, what she'll study in college, and whether or not she'll be the next Taylor Swift. 

Regardless of what path she chooses, I'll do my best to make sure she knows some loving aunty-guidance is just a phone call (or a text, who am I kidding) away. 

If her heart gets broken, I'll tell her my own stories of hurt and ultimate recovery. If she gets into a car accident, I'll tell her about the many bumpers I've bruised. If she doesn't land her dream job, I'll tell her how hard work and great character will eventually take her wherever she desires to go. When she gets married, I'll be there--quietly in the audience, breath captured in my chest--watching as this once adorable, cheeky baby walks down the aisle as an intelligent, beautiful young woman on her way to start a family of her very own. 

Finally, when she has a baby of her own, I'll be smiling knowing that she now gets to experience every emotion I've had the privilege of feeling since her arrival Monday evening.