This one's for my girls!

As Mother's Day approaches yes I am thinking of my life as a mom and the two beautiful boys blessing my days. And of course I celebrate my own audacious and inspiring mother and grandmother along with all the women in my life who have provided me with maternal care. This includes my loving and ever sweet mother-in-law, my wonderful aunties and two lovelies from the old bluff road who always made me feel one of their own. But two, very sweet little girls have been on my mind and are the subject of this blog post. Audrey and Jenna...this one's for you!

First up, the eldest of my nieces, the lovely Jenna Kaelynn. I want you to look back on this years from now and know how very much I adored you then, now and forever! My dream of having a girl to play dress-up with, take to the latest Disney princess flick and shower with outfit upon outfit (complete with all accessories) was not fulfilled. Instead a new dream emerged, I get to witness you dote over my boys with the patience and skill of someone twice your age. You are about to turn eight years old and I am so very proud of the young lady I already see blossoming before my eyes. Max and Will simply light up at the sight of you, whether taking their hand to avoid danger or tickling them to create giggles--I am in awe of your poise, beauty and silliness all at once. A tiny dancer you are now, and a young reader with such a knack for story telling. I promise we will get our nails done together (for always) and have pedicures abound with Aunt Erin. I promise to never forget how you are today and tell you what wise observations you made at such a tender age. May the moon goddess always watch over you and be dressed in a bike helmet and tutu to match! You are so strong, brave and brilliant Jenna.

And dear Audrey Belle, just a year behind Jenna, this sizzling summer you are turning seven. Right now you have two little brothers to keep in line and sweet girl you are shining like a star in the role of big sister. I also have the privilege of watching you gush over Will and Thomas, they are both very enamored babies at the sight of you. Your dad shared a soccer story with me that epitomizes your grace and inner beauty. A younger player, new to your team and the game, seemed a little unsure and you were the only one to take a bit of your time, give her some encouraging words and reassure her she had a friend. I love this about you Audrey, always looking out for others. Max followed you around like a duckling during our last visit, he needed and so appreciated your attentiveness. And you never seem bothered by him tagging along with you. A budding pianist and superstar in many other realms, I am forever proud to call you my niece. I promise we will go to the theater with (or without!) your mom and undoubtedly we shall be pen pals for life. May the moon goddess always watch over you and be dressed in soccer gear and a tiara to match! You are so strong, brave and brilliant Audrey.

I love you girls. There will be times when you want to play mommy and times you will show disgust at the thought, but I envision wherever you go, whatever you become...somehow you both will continue to care for others and provide empathy when no one else understands. If ever you feel lost or unsure, recall what made you happy at this age; it is likely the answer. When we look back to our roots, to the things that felt whimsical during childhood, those are the keys to finding the happiness we all seek in this world.

All my love, girl power and goddess strength to you both always.

Love,

Aunt Meg