Moments D396: Nephew Love

Today my youngest nephew turned seven. He’s a spitfire with lots of energy and spunk. And over the past 6-8 months he’s been going through a phase where he doesn't like to hug and kiss people. I could always coerce him into a hug at least, but kisses - no way!

Of course as the doting Aunt, that’s challenging. I love this kid. He makes me laugh, he’s adorable and I do want to show him just how much I love him. Instead of forcing hugs and kisses, what I've done over these torturous months is just be with him. I’d go and sit and watch him play his videos or join in on a foozeball. Sometimes we would have a conversation about what he’s doing or thinking about things. Just time with him instead of sitting upstairs with the adults, I made sure to spend time with him (and his brother) in their playroom in the basement.

Today was a real treat for me. As I went into their play room, he was playing foozeball with one of his cousins. He abruptly stopped and came running over to me. He gave me the biggest, tightest, longest hug I've had in months from him. He didn't want to let go! I loved every second of it! When we did part from our hug, he gave me a big kiss too!. Talk about shocked! What a fabulous surprise!

I thought maybe the affection today was just a fluke because it was his birthday. But then, later during my visit my nephew was playing with his Nintendo DS and he decided that he needed a picture of the two of us. So he interrupted his Dad`s conversation to get him to take our picture. The next thing I know, my dear sweet nephew hooks his arm under my chin and grabs my the side of my head to smooch my face into his. The camera, not very quick or easy to use on the DS, took forever. And yet, the entire time he kept our faces smooched together. It melted my heart.

As I prepared to leave much later I was gifted yet another tight squeeze and a big kiss. Yup - this is one aunt who`s heart is full of love after leaving that family gathering.

Moments realizing that patience does pay off sometimes.

Moments enjoying nephew love.