N is for Niece

I was 12 years old when I became a Titi (Auntie in Spanish) for the first time. My dad came into my room to tell me that my sister had gone to the hospital and to NOT wake up my brother. Of course as soon as my dad was back in his room, I ran to wake up my brother! Ha! My sister is 10 years older than me, so I learned all about being an auntie very quickly and my summer hobby was watching my little doll grow. :) She's a teenager now. Lord, help us! 

In 2014, I became Titi for the 2nd time. This time it was on my husband's side of the family. I remember the night Giana was born. She was the first grandbaby for my husband's family and so there was MUCH anticipation over this precious little girl. Jeanette (My husband's sister) and I woke up in the middle of the night, retainers and all, to "oo" and "awe" over the pictures being sent to us of the newest and cutest little thing. Her mommy and daddy need to watch out because her blue eyes and cute personality are going to give them a run for their money! LOVE!

This last year while I was in Palau, I got word that my brother and his girlfriend were expecting. I was full of emotion. My little brother! A daddy?! I better start having kids! No, not ready. Ah! A new bundle of joy! What will she/he be like? 

So the months went by and I finally came home and saw the baby bump for myself. Baby was due on June 21. She WAS due, is the key word. 

Instead, sweet baby Emily decided to show up a few weeks early surprising us all, and giving her daddy the best birthday present he ever had. 

I was at my house an hour and a half away when my brother texted me that he was heading to the hospital. We knew that since Emily would be considered "Preemie" that the doctors would take their time, but I still wanted to be there as soon as I could! 

We waited all day in the hospital for baby as she took her SWEET time. She showed up the night before my brothers 22nd birthday and just before Sabbath. Perfect timing. :) 

Look at this sweet little face! 

And so, on this rainy day while I'm stuck in my classroom on summer vacation, I'm thinking of my girls and the joy they bring to me. One day these girls will be beautiful women! I can't believe it. So honored to be their "Titi". 

Xo, 

Rachel