Things Aunties Must Know How To Do

Make all inanimate objects talk -- in different voices.

Sing and dance to silly songs. Tango with the baby at family BBQs; that goes over well.

Give the baby cookies, cake, ice cream, whatever, when Mommy's not looking.

Make sure the baby knows how to get dirty.

Pick the baby up, swing the baby around, overhead and side to side. Never get tired. One develops incredible arms muscles doing this, fortunately.

Change a diaper while distracting the baby from the job at hand so she doesn't roll away into the floor.

Kiss boo-boos, snuggle to stop the crocodile tears, and make the baby laugh so she forgets her knee is skinned up.

Set boundaries and let her know when enough is enough. She has to love you for your strength as well as your silliness. It makes her feel safe and secure knowing she is protected and looked after. This is not the only providence of hugs and kissies.

Understand when she is tired and really -- no REALLY -- needs to go to sleep. Even if she protests.

How to distinguish a fake dry from a real one. Make no mistake, baby girls are tricky. Of course they'd rather be with you in the living room. It's more fun than taking a nap!

Love and be patient.

Remember all these moments and take lots of pictures, 'cause they grow up soooo fast.