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The House is Quiet

Loving My Niece While Waiting My Turn at Parenthood

By Mark Stackpole

Alie has been a gift to our entire family, and one day, I am sure, the world will sit up and take notice of our little superstar. But it was Lisa who bestowed upon me the title of "Godfather" and gave me the opportunity to bask in the glow of a love like no other. The love of a child. I am convinced that I will be a father one day, and I am equally sure that the gifts I am able to offer my own children will be enhanced because of the gift she has given me.

Until then, I will relish the play and laughter that rings through my house whenever Alie comes to visit. Her giggles will echo in the halls and sustain me until next time. Some day soon, she will be here to visit her new cousin – their screams of delight will mingle as I seek guidance from Lisa on one parental issue or another.

I very much look forward to that day as I put the light saber away and return the Green Goblin to his proper shelf. A place for everything and everything in its place, right? The Jedi is napping in the car. Spider-Man is safely strapped in for the long ride home.

And once again, the house is quiet.

Want to see more?

• Confessions of the Childless Guy: Learning to Be a Friend to New Parents
• Fuzzy Blue Hippo: A Letter to My Unborn Child
• Keeping the Love Alive When You're Trying to Conceive
• Talk about it!