Oh Aunties, how I just love the fall. It’s my favorite season. The leaves turn beautiful shades of red, orange and yellow. The air gets a crispness that takes away the stickiness of summer. And I finally get to tap into my jacket collection when I leave the house every morning. Yes, I love autumn, and this year, it’s been extra special.

In September, I was happy to welcome a new niece and nephew into the world. One of my dear friends from high school gave birth to the beautiful Angelina, and my sister introduced me to her brand new baby son, Jack.

Needless to say, I’ve been busy. Beyond my personal obligations, like work, friends and a social life, my duties as an Aunt seem to be kicking into high gear. I’ll give you an example: When my sister went into labor with my new nephew, I was about six hours away from home at a wedding in rural Vermont, with limited cell phone service.

In the past, I’ve been on hand for a hospital visit soon after my nieces and nephews have been born, and this time I had been planning on doing the same. Sadly, the circumstances didn’t really allow for me to bail on the wedding and hop on a plane, so I spent a few hours pacing around my hotel room and staring at my phone for updates. When I finally got the news I was overjoyed, and I partied the night away with the beautiful bride and her awesome groom, who happened to be celebrating his birthday!

My past few weekends have been full of events for the kids, including a first birthday party for my niece, Kayla, and a Christening for my best friend’s son, Martin Anthony. While I love being invited and sharing in these special moments, I feel like I’ve been so busy that I haven’t had a moment for myself, you know - “Auntie Margaret time.”

I’ve been working on managing how much I keep on my proverbial plate. I’ve always struggled with taking time for myself and being the best Aunt I can be. I’m come to realize that without taking time to improve my live and follow my dreams, I’ll never be able to be an example to the kids I love so much.

Do any of you struggle balancing your life with your responsibilities as an Auntie?

Published: October 24, 2010