"While we try to teach our children all about life, our children teach us what life is all about."

Four years ago today, my heart was filled with more love than I ever dreamed was possible. 

Though I've seen many babies, I had never seen a child of my own blood, moments after they had graced the world with their presence... 

I will never forget the feeling I had when I saw this little baby in the hospital hallway as he was being taken to his special bed in the NICU.

This little man changed my life forever.  But the story doesn't end there.  Just after I saw this beautiful baby, I was given another gift to love.  Oliver's twin brother, Payne.

I've never experienced the joy of motherhood...but I have enjoyed the thrill of aunthood. 

My oldest sister, Candice has two wonderful kids that I adore...and don't get to see very often.  :( 

 I love all five of my monkeys the same...let me just throw that out there...but there is something special about seeing a niece or nephew just seconds after they've been born. 

Something for which I was not prepared.     

         

These little monks have me absolutely wrapped around their fingers and they will for the rest of my life.  Watching them grow has been the single most rewarding experience I've ever had. 

You always hear people say that they never knew they could love something so much...and then they give birth and it's the most overwhelming feeling, right?  No one ever told me that I would feel that way too, as an aunt.  I remember thinking, when I have my own children, how can I possibly supersede this feeling that I'm having?  Yes, I know that it will be completely different and overwhelmingly joyful in it's own right.

It seems like yesterday that we were rushing to the hospital, awaiting the twins' arrival...I cannot believe that it has been four years already.  They will be grown before I know it.  But until then...I'm going to love on them as much as possible, give them unlimited hugs and kisses (kiss and hug as O & P say)...because nothing is sweeter than a little boy giving you a bear hug and telling you that they love you. 

They are truly two of the most special people I have ever met. 

Happy Birthday my sweet little angel monkeys. 

I love you both more than I know how to say...

and a special thank you to my sister, Regan, for making such spectacularly handsome, smart little men.  Good Job!  :)

(PS.  They take after their aunt....)