Becoming a first-time aunt is an unforgettable experience. Sure, the kids of friends, colleagues, and distant relatives have called me “aunt,” but nothing compares to the excitement of being an aunt to my own siblings’ children. When I learned my sister was expecting, emotions flooded within me—excitement, nervousness, anticipation, and even a little fear for both the parents and the babies. She had waited thirty-five years for her first child, and I was already forty. The same feelings washed over me when my brother announced his news. Again, he had waited forty years for his firstborn, and I was already forty-three. The thrill and nervousness returned, just as intense as before.
Now back to the first time I learned I’m about to be a new aunt. Our whole family felt that whirlwind of emotions. While worries bubbled up from time to time, the joy and excitement easily overshadowed them. And, of course, the jokes came rolling in. The countdown was wild—every week, we tracked the baby’s growth. One moment she was the size of a pea, the next an avocado! We’re seeing the future as stage aunt for sure.
The only catch? My sister lived overseas. We couldn’t all be there for the birth, which meant relying on photos, videos, and video calls to share those first precious moments. But despite the distance, the excitement never waned. As a first-time aunt, I was quite bummed that I could not hold my first niece in person.
The News and Anticipation
The anticipation leading up to my niece’s birth was like nothing I’d ever experienced. Every day was a countdown, each hour stretching longer as we all waited for the big news. I was constantly checking my phone, jumping every time a notification buzzed, wondering if this was the moment. The wait was intense, but it also brought joy and nervous energy.
The First Meeting
When the big day finally arrived, I remember gluing myself to my phone, anxiously waiting for any update. Then my mom sent the first pictures, and we celebrated—virtually, of course! She is absolutely perfect (and yes, I may be biased). Even through the screen, I felt my world shift. In that instant, love, protectiveness, and a sense of responsibility I hadn’t expected overwhelmed me. I am legit a first-time aunt.
Building Our Bond
From that day forward, I made it my mission to be as involved as possible. I wanted her to know me, to recognize my voice and face, even if it was through a screen. Thankfully, her parents have been incredibly generous, constantly sharing photos, videos, and updates. And, I have to say—though it may sound biased—she’s growing into an extraordinary kid.
Learning along the Way
Being a first-time aunt definitely came with its challenges. I found myself constantly scouring the Internet for anything related to her growth and development. I felt like I needed to have “suggestions” ready at every turn and explanations for every milestone. But I realized quickly that I didn’t have to be an expert—I just had to show up, be present, and stay open to learning as I went.
Creating Special Moments
I finally met my niece in person a little after her first birthday. Yes, it took that long. We threw her a belated birthday party and introduced her to family she had only seen through a screen. Some of us were familiar faces—thanks to our near-daily video calls. Like any kid, though, she naturally gravitated toward the favorite aunt or uncle—and, well, that wasn’t me.
But what I’ve come to love most about being a first-time aunt are the special moments we create together. In the short time we had to play (since I had to share her with other aunts, uncles, and grandparents), I learned she has a few passions: she loves the water, enjoys good food, and—without a doubt—she absolutely loves to dance.
Embracing the Fun and Chaos
My niece has really come into her own now that she’s two. We’ve grown closer as she has started to recognize all of us. She still loves good food and dancing, but now she has added goofing around to the mix—and her laugh absolutely contagious. I’ve learned to embrace the fun, the mess, and the chaos that come with being an aunt. There are moments of pure joy, endless laughter, and yes, even the occasional tantrum. But through it all, I cherish every second. Being a first-time aunt is an incredible experience, and I’m grateful to be part of her journey.
Being There through It All
As she grows, I want to be there for every milestone—her first words, first steps, first day of school. I want to be the aunt she knows she can count on, always ready with support, love, and a little bit of silliness. The same goes for my first nephew.
Looking Forward
Looking ahead, I can’t wait for all the adventures we’ll have together. Watching them grow, learn, and become their own person are some things I’m excited for. Becoming a first-time aunt has taught me so much about love, patience, and the pure joy of being part of a child’s life. I deeply treasure this role, and I’m committed to being the best aunt I can be. Honestly, being a first-time aunt has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
