Becoming an aunt is something I’ve always wanted. I didn’t know if it would be through my own children or not, but I always thought I’d be the “cool” aunt—the one who organizes activities. I’ve always loved kids—snuggling up to those warm little babies who smell so good. Now that I have kids of my own, I can’t wait to become an aunt so I can spoil myself all over again. In fact, I was looking forward to it, since I’ve been an aunt for a few days now.
In addition to being so happy for the new parents and having a new member in our family, I’m also sad and disappointed. I’m disappointed to be becoming an aunt during this pandemic. I realize full well that it’s much worse for parents who are expecting a baby in the coming days or weeks, or who have just welcomed a brand-new member into their family. Even more so for parents who have experienced or will experience their very first childbirth.
As for me, I’d been looking forward to that moment when I’d meet my nephew for the first time at the hospital. Unfortunately, the coronavirus has disrupted our lives. No visitors are allowed at the hospital. This is, of course, completely understandable, but still disappointing.
I’m not the kind of person who would impose myself or feel like a burden in this new family’s life, but I’d really like to be able to visit the baby—to give the parents time to rest, maybe cook them a meal or two. Except that won’t be possible either. For the next few weeks, I’ll only be able to see my first nephew through the living room window and leave my gift for the family on the front porch.
As I mentioned earlier, this must be much more disappointing for the new parents because they’re so proud, yet can’t share their joy with family and friends. On the one hand, even if they don’t realize it, this will give them a break. They’ll have time to settle into their new home, get used to their new routine—and, most importantly, get used to their baby—before welcoming a never-ending stream of visitors eager to meet their new little treasure.
Even though I’m just the aunt, I’m disappointed. I would have loved to see my first nephew right away, to indulge in holding that little one in my arms.
“I’ll have to make do with the photos and videos the new parents send us so I can get to know the little one who, in a few weeks, will be sleeping in my arms!”