QandO

April 11, 2004

If there's a reward for being a parent, its grandkids
Posted by McQ

Yesterday I had the opportunity to spend some time with my newest grandson (I have a large granddaughter deficit ... 0 for 4). He's 2 1/2 months old. Most people think there's not much too a child that young, that the personality doesn't begin to emerge until at least 6-8 months. That they are simply eating, sleeping, and pooping machines.

Well, I beg to differ. I had a great day with the little guy. And while he'd take a nap at the drop of a hat (or the pull on a bottle), most of the time I was able to enjoy an alert, sweet and fascinating little fellow.

His attention span, for his age, is amazing. Once his little eyes locked onto something, diverting his attention was almost impossible. While carrying him around, I tried to interest him in his reflection in the mirror. But his attention was locked on his brothers, and no matter how I turned him, his little head rotated as if with servo motors to keep his fix on them and their activities.

His usual mode is sitting in his carry-all and gazing out at the world and what interests him at the moment (usually a bright light or some rampant colors). But then when an adult who doesn't mind acting like an idiot (that would be me) moves into his field of view and begins to make gentle noises at him you can watch his excietment build. Little arms begin waving, little hands begin clutching, tiny legs begin kicking and a smile forms.

Then the most gratifying part. He begins to try to make answering noises. He's just recently discovered he can do this, and its apparent he likes to do it, but he can't always immediately remember HOW he does it. So he starts his trial and error attempts. The little mouth moves and contorts and finally out comes "arruhhhaaah". He looks startled and pleased, showing us a little smile. He then repeats what he just did and another "arruhaaah" comes out. He's smiling now. He's on a roll and we're treated to little chirps and gurgles and other baby noises that just make you want to pick him up and squeeze him.

I don't know what I did to deserve these 4, but they're something so special it makes me smile just to think about them. I find myself laughing outloud at times just remembering their antics and words (which can lead to some strange looks if you happen to be around other people). I feel fortunate and blessed to be given the opportunity to be a part of their lives and watch them grow up.

If you're too young to have any grandchildren, just mark my words. They make life worth living. They make all the hard work and stress you went through raising your own children worth every second.

Why? Because you can completely and fully enjoy them without the same level of responsibility and stress. You'll never, ever understand what a precious and wonderful gift they are until you actually have your own.

Mine are 7, 5, 3 and 2 months. Quite a crew, let me tell you. Into everything, interested in everything and living life large. I love their zest for life. I treasure their curiosity. I laugh and enjoy their antics. And they can ask more questions in a 5 minute period than Connie Chung.

Sometimes I do wish the inevitable would just stay away. If I could freeze time, they'd stay just the way they are right now. Then I'd always be "PaPa", have my little guys hug my leg and tell me they love me. I'll miss it when I can no longer pick them up, give them a big hug and tell 'em how much I love them too.

But life moves on and with them around, well, its just a great life.

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