A New Grandchild

Almost 7 weeks ago my older daughter gave birth to a nearly perfect little baby boy.  He took everybody by surprise; he arrived 3 weeks early, quickly, and by C-section (he was breech).  He was greeted with great joy by parents who weren’t sure that they would be able to have children.

Four days ago we met our grandson, our first grandchild, for the very first time.  He lives across the country from us and I could hardly wait to hold him.  We arrived late at night so I had to wait until the next morning to see him.

It’s difficult to describe my feelings as I watch my daughter with her new son.  Memories of my first days with her as an infant have come back to me.  I recall rocking her and nursing her.  She has shared how much she loves this child, this child she feared she would never have.  I listen to her talk softly to her baby and gently comfort him.  My daughter is a good mother.

Holding this precious little boy is a special time.  Whether he is sleeping, sucking vigorously on his pacifier or crying loudly as I walk him, it is all wonderful.  The very best times have been when he looks back at me and stares into my eyes for a moment.

All too soon we will be leaving and I know it will be really hard.  We will be planning our next visit for spring and doing lots of Facetime in between.

A Lovely Fall Day

The weather has been unseasonably warm for this time of year.  However, as I sit on my deck and the sun sinks lower on the horizon, I feel the distinct chill of the fall night air.  My vegetable garden is still producing but it’s beginning to wind down.  The leaves on the trees are just beginning to change color.  The roses have put out one last burst of color before the frost arrives.  Squirrels scurry through the yard.

I have mixed feelings at this time of year.  The days are often beautiful with warm daytime temperatures.  The cooler days allow for more outside activities.  However, summer is my favorite season and I begin to mourn its passing.  I am not a fan of winter with its ice and cold.

Fall is my reminder to enjoy each day to its fullest, to soak in the warmth, and to look around at the beauty that surrounds me.  I take a deep breath, inhaling the aromas of the season.  What a lovely day.