Q&Auntie: Model Bre Scullark
Written By Savvy Auntie Staff Writers
Savvy Auntie is proud to introduce our newest feature, Q&Auntie, where we ask some powerful women their take on being a Savvy Auntie. First up, Bre Scullark, a model who appeared on the fifth cycle of "America's Next Top Model," tells us her favorite things about being an auntie--her answers may surprise you!
Are you an Auntie By Relation, Auntie By Choice, Godmother or Other?
I am an auntie by relation. My older brother has two children. A son who's two and a daughter that's five months.
How long have you been a Savvy Auntie? How many nieces, nephews and godchildren do you have?
I'm a new auntie--just two years in--but I also have a godchild! She four years old with the personality of an old woman! She's so much fun to be around. When I'm around her it makes me excited to have a family one day.
What do the kids call you?
Auntie B is what my goddaughter calls me. My niece and nephew are still to young. My nephew tries to say something but it always sound like the name of some food or ice cream.
What’s the best thing about an Auntie?
The best thing about being an auntie is learning everything about parenthood! Spending time with the kids, learning how to fix booboos, finding ways to make them eat their veggies. I love children!!!
What’s your Auntie expertise? Are you crafty , sporty, good at mending booboos, etc.?
My goddaughter hates eating veggies. So one day I decided to trick her! I made string beans with butter, a little brown sugar and cinnamon. She loved it! Finally, she eats her greens,all you have to do is sprinkle some cinnamon and sugar.
Changing diapers: bonding experience or total yuck?
I don't mind changing diapers. It doesn't gross me out.
What’s the first book you ever read to them or song you ever sung to them?
"A House for Hermit Crab" by Eric Carle! I love Eric Carle. He has classic children's books that are easy for children to follow. And did you know that he makes them in different languages? They come in audio also!
Most fun activity you ever did with them?
Nothing extremely exciting. They have to get a little older before the real fun begins
Best gift you ever bought them?
I brought my goddaughter this BEAUTIFUL princess dress! It was this fitted peach material on the top with a creme chiffon that puffs out at the bottom. It looks like a dress made for Cinderella. It came with a matching purse and a tiara.
Spoiling: Auntie’s prerogative or Never a good idea?
I have to admit, I spoil children rotten. I spoil my niece, my nephew, my goddaughter,little brothers, dogs etc. Its my prerogative. I love seeing kids happy!
What’s the worst mistake you ever made with the kids? Or, greatest lesson you ever learned?
Well it wasn't while I was an Auntie. When my younger twin brothers were about 4 or 5, they had loose teeth. I wasn't really good at pulling teeth, especially since my nails were long. I tried to take my little brother's tooth out but he saw my nails and screamed. He hid from me for the rest of the night. I felt like the Boogie Man!
What do you keep in your bag when you’re taking care of the kids?
Whenever I have the kids with me, I always bring treats! Ziploc bags full of peanuts, popcorn, PB&J sandwiches cut in squares etc. Okay, okay, the snacks are for me too.
What do you cherish most about your nieces/nephews?
I cherish the innocent moments. The smiles and giggles. They're so pure, I love them.
What do they love most about you?
I would hope that they love me because I have lots of energy. I can keep up and I love playing dress up.
Who are the Aunties, past, present, personal or public, that you look up to?
My Aunt Chivon is my favorite aunt. I call her Aunt Bon Bon! When I was younger, play Michael Jackson and try to teach me how to dance. She would have sleepovers with just us too. As I got older, my aunt became my closest friend. She would listen to all my high school gossip, all my questions that I was too embarrassed to tell my mom about. My aunt has always been the world to me. She's my step in mommy/my second mommy and I love her to pieces.
What are your words of advice for other Savvy Aunties?
My advice to other Savvy Aunties is, keep your arms, heart and ears open. That's the best way to love your nieces and nephews! To them, you are just as special as their parent!
Follow Bre on Twitter or check out her site, kissbre.com.