We lost my sister in May 2018 after an 18-month battle with cancer (as you read in “About Stacy“). Her kids were five and two at the time, but they still talk about her all the time. They love looking at pictures of her and hearing stories about her. I wish I had more videos of her to show them. When we visit my family in Virginia, at least one night our niece and nephew usually spend the night with us at my mom’s house. It gives their dad some time to himself and gives us more time to spend with them. One night, I had the fun opportunity to give my niece and nephew a bath.
Though I remember taking baths as a child with my sister, I don’t believe I have ever given a baby a bath. I never had children of my own and my stepchildren are adults. So this was an amazing opportunity for me, and I felt blessed to be able to do it.
After playing outside all day, the kids needed a rinse. Though I figured the bathroom would be a sloppy mess by the time we were done, I didn’t care. They had no toys. Only each other, a cup to wash their hair, and me. They tried to pretend they were swimming. They poured water on each other. My nephew even peed in the water! We all had the best time laughing and giggling. It was so much fun giving them a bath!
My niece practiced holding her breath underwater. And my nephew didn’t mind water in his face either which is a huge step for both of them. Once they were washed and started getting more water on the floor than in the tub I told them it was time to get out. I dried them off and helped them into their pajamas.
We combed their hair, brushed their teeth, and then cuddled on the couch. Though it was a very simple evening, it was one that I will always remember. Their laughs and innocence make my heart so happy. I am so blessed to be able to spend time with them.
Although I am not their mother, I felt inspired that maybe for those 15 minutes I filled a void for them of having a young female presence doing something ordinary with them. My intention is never to replace their mother but to build memories with them as their aunt and as a young female role model.
