And one day...

when you're not looking, they grow up.

Kids, that is.

I'm not a mother; I'm an aunt, a mentor, a 'second mother', to some truly great young people.

The two who hold the biggest pieces of my heart are my sister's daughters. It's been my absolute joy and pleasure to watch them grow up and to know that I've had a small part in helping them become the amazing young women they are.

Why, you may be asking, am I waxing so philosophical today?

This is why:

On October 29th, my niece took a huge step in her life by joining it with a man she loves.

She was two yesterday and today, she talks about spending time with her hubby.

I have no idea how it happened so fast.

I do know that I am insanely proud of the beautiful woman she's become.

And for whatever little part I played in that, I am thankful.