Hey Auntie!: Emerald M.

Say "What's good?" to the next Dope Auntie, Emerald M. Emerald, known to her babies as "Auntie Baby", is a Bay Area native, former athlete, and 90s R&B enthusiast. We met at work and connected over having Littles in our homes, so read below on how that's shaped the way she moves in the world.

Photography Credit: Don Feria @donferia

What is your idea of a dope auntie?

A second mama! A woman who loves you unconditionally. Hypes you up. Celebrates you. Hold you tightly when the tears are flowing. Will throw down for you. Will move heaven and earth to make you happy. Someone whose wink gives you the courage to take that leap off that extra high ledge because you know that if you fell, she'd catch you. She may not have given birth to you, but you are an extension of her being.

Who were the women in your life who you would say fit this idea/definition?

I have been so lucky to have so many women in my life who fit this bill, and for certain can include my parents' sisters and sisters-in-law. My mom is one of six and my dad is one of four, so I am surrounded by women who show up for me all the time. I also have a bunch of uncles, cousins, and grandparents who make up my tribe, but today we're focused on the aunties!

Living her best Auntie Baby life, wearing matching Bred 4s with the nephew. Pic courtesy of Adam Suguitan (@adamspointofview)

Who calls you "Auntie" and what are their names for you? How would you describe your relationship with your Littles?

My sister's son, my cousins' kiddies, and my friends' kiddies call me some form of "auntie". My sister's son calls me "Auntie Baby". I wanted to pick a very traditional/stereotypical Filipino nickname for myself so I encouraged him to call me that VERY early on in life. My cousins' kids and friends' kids call me either "Titi" or "Auntie".

My relationship with the littles is centered around the definition I provided earlier - an unending source of support, love, and joy.

What do you hope for in your relationship and what's your favorite part about being an auntie?

With my sister's son, in particular, I take my role as Auntie Baby very seriously. We lost my mom a few years ago, and it sucks to know that her grandkids will not have the chance to meet her in this lifetime. With that on my mind, I use that as extra motivation to love him ( and future nieces and nephews) with the same fierceness and magic she would bring.

I hope that The Littles learn from me just as much as I learn from them. The Littles teach me so much about life and the capacity to love. They stretch my heart. They help me see things with more delight and awe. I hope that that's something I can reciprocate throughout their lives.

My favorite part about being an auntie? The smiles. The love. The Facetimes. The handholding. And being able to hand kids back to their parents at the end of the day 😁

What do you do to take care of yourself so that you can be at your best for yourself and your Littles?

Right now I'm having Mister Softee. That's DEFINITELY self-care. I prioritize sleep and exercise and try to incorporate greens into every meal. I also do the following, in no particular order:

• Meditate & remember to breathe

• Journal

• Travel (safely, post-COVID)

• Watch "Friends", "Grey's Anatomy", or "Who's The Boss?"

What's one piece of advice that you've either been given or want to share with the future generation?

Give thanks. Be grateful! In the center of gratitude is where you'll find joy.