MY HEART BROKE TODAY as I watched Aspen try to make friends at Two Jacks Pizza. Kid after kid passed her by without even the slightest of glances, which was perfectly fine to her at the time. She entertained us for a little bit running laps around the table, grinning like she always does and mouthing out random words like Aub, Drink and Bull Rap (I blame her father for that last one).

That’s when she landed eyes on her. She was young, probably only three, with wavy honey blond hair and rosy cheeks. After staring for an eternity, Aspen tentatively waved and chirped, “hi!”. Blondie was not amused. Pointing her finger at Aspen, she mumbled, “Dad, the baby is coming…” then a little louder, “Dad, the BABY is COMING!!!” When that got no reaction from her father who was ordering pizza, she waved her arm around wildly executioner-style and screeched, “SHE’S GONNA TAKE OUR SEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAATS!!!!”

Aspen cocked her head but was still standing her ground, hoping to have a new playmate. Blondie had had enough and proceeded to try and flyswatter her away with her hand. I was just glad Aspen hadn’t been standing any closer, as I could guarantee Blondie would’ve slapped her just to defend her precious table.

Little kids can be so vicious.

The only people who weren’t oblivious to this whole scene were Megan, Ashley and I. We’d even stopped eating, which never happens when Fat Sticks are around (Cheese Sticks, if you’re going to get all technical on me). Aspen turned to face us and big fat tears rolled down her face as she suffered through her first rejection. She stood there and sobbed her little heart out, and let me tell you, I’d rather walk over nails barefoot than watch an eighteen month old cry like that ever again. Ever.

In the end, I think all three of us adults were more upset about it than Aspen. Megan and I even stuck our tongues out at Blondie on the way out. Yes I’m immature, but that’s my niece. Nobody messes with her – three years old or no. Apparently, reactions never outgrow you, they just become a choice. Aspen was more mature than all of us combined when she waved and said goodbye to Blondie.

The whole experience got me thinking about just how early on in life we learn about things like love, rejection, wants and needs. It’s all too easy to think something is small and insignificant because they are children. I think we could all use a reminder to keep an open mind that kids go through tough times too, and we should do our best to help them through that, not just shrug it off or become angry or irritated. I fear I’m treading into water that I shouldn’t go (family wise) with this, so I’ll end on that note and hope a certain someone reads it. To all my niece and nephew kiddos, I love you. Aunt Aub will always be here, even ten years from now when you’re old enough to use the Internet (or allowed) and you find this post. If you ever need me you know where I am.