Dear Luca (my little Lu)

Being an Auntie is my favorite job…by far the best job I’ve ever had. I had no idea I could love someone so deeply before you came into my life. When I look at you, my heart swells. The feeling is so overwhelming sometimes I just want to pick you up and smush you with all of my love- cuteness aggression has never been more real. 

My little Lu. 
My sassy little stinker.
My baby bubba. 
Your blonde curls
Your dark, brown eyes
Your button nose that I love to boop. 
You raising your tiny finger, placed on my nose
a boop back 

Your excited “AUNTIE” every time I walk through the door
Little footsteps tromping over
arms out, jumping into mine 
Your body giving me a mini squeeze
head laying softly on my shoulder 

“Come mere, Auntie” 
“Peease, Auntie” 
“Dank You, Auntie”
and of course 
“Lellow” 
some of my favorite little lines. 

My best and most memorable evenings are spent 
playing cars,
blowing bubbles, 
pretending in your toy kitchen 
you the chef, of course
making me a “spot of tea” 
usually telling me “Nooo Auntie” 
when I bring out the makeshift English accent
Sitting by your side at the dinner table
we giggle as your face becomes as messy 
as your plate 

All of these little moments. So filled with love. 
Everyday that I get to spend with you is my favorite day. 

My brain has a hard time fathoming
two years will turn into 8, then 16, then 25 before I know it. 
And though I tell you every day you are not allowed to grow any more. 
Just know that I am so excited to watch you flourish in this life. 
I cannot wait to see what you accomplish, where you go. 
I cannot wait to be by your side every single step of the way. 

I love you, Luca. More than you could ever know. Auntie is here for you. Forever and ever.