Neeley’s Note: I never thought I’d get to have nieces or nephews as I was an only child until October 2009 when I gained two stepbrothers (father remarried) and, in 2013, a stepsister (mother remarried). When I heard the news that my older stepbrother was expecting, I scrambled to find something special I could make for my first niece, Lilly. So, I created the ‘Lilly Bank’. When I learned in early spring of 2014 that my stepsister was expecting, I had to create a second for sweet Aubrey. After Aubrey was born, I thought that I had to make another version for my oldest niece, Kinlee. So, for her 10th birthday in February I made her a baby blue piggy bank with stars instead of polka dots. (Lilly was born before Kinlee became my niece which makes the order a little confusing!)
This little story is dedicated to my three, beautiful nieces, Lilly, Kinlee and Aubrey. xoxo
Piggie had a green body and tan spots. She was the first of her kind and made with so much love for a little one who hadn’t yet been welcomed into the world.
Piggie knew she had a very important job. She was there to hold very valuable things for the little one. Piggie wasn’t an ordinary piggy bank. She didn’t hold money, but held wisdom. Piggie knew that the little one had many people who loved her, even though they hadn’t met her yet. These people wanted to share with the little one all of the things that they’ve learned throughout their lives so they could help guide her through this wonderful world.
When the little one came, she was given the name ‘Lilly’. Piggie was so excited, “I’m Lilly’s bank!” And Piggie fell head over heels for Lilly, just like the rest of the people who finally got to meet her. That afternoon, Piggie gathered up small pieces of paper with little bits of wisdom from everyone who loved Lilly. It was a very long day for Piggie, there were lots of people!
When Lilly laid down for her first night of sleep in the new world, Piggie hopped off of her shelf and made to Lilly’s sweet, sleeping face. Piggie whispered in her ear, “I will keep these safe for you until you need them.” She then kissed Lilly on the head and made her way back to the shelf. She stands with pride knowing she’s been trusted with the most valuable treasures given to Lilly.
Piggie smiled and said softly, “I’m Lilly’s bank.”