That special eight year old cheerleader ♥

I’m often amazed at how big my nieces and nephews are getting. When I first started dating Sean, Brittany (Sean’s sister) was preganant with Nadiyah. Being able to watch her grow is almost a surreal experience. Every time I see her I feel like she has gotten taller or that her face has matured so much from the last time I saw her.

I remember playing hand games with her (our favorite being Ms. Mary Mack) when she was a baby but her mom had to hold her hands to do so. And now, whenever we see each other we play hand games; our favorite is still Ms. Mary Mack. It is almost as though she remembers which I know she doesn’t because I’ve asked.

She turned eight last month and her mom threw her a simple birthday party at home with just family since she was going to be having another party with her friends at the roller skating rink.

After some ice cream cake and pizza, Nadiyah invited Sean and I to watch her cheer at the football game. How could we say no?
We went and brought Veronica's (Sean’s sister) dog along for some outdoor fun.



As I watched Nadiyah cheer and know all the steps by heart I felt proud. This little girl was my flower girl when she was just two years old and we have this connection that I can’t really explain. She was also the first one to make me an aunt even if it’s just through marriage. I take pride in being her aunt, being able to watch her grow and hope that the world treats her kindly. Because she truly is one kind child and has a heart of gold.

Nadiyah, I love you and hope that your 8th year is your best one yet. I look forward to making more memories with you and remaining your favorite aunt ;).