A Heffalump Grows Up!
Hard to believe – but the memories come flooding back. Almost 15 years ago Chris’s mother, Carol Lynn, and I were waiting as Annie was born. Such an incredible experience – we were invited in a few minutes after the birth. They cleaned her up and presented their precious gift to us. I still remember those special moments – the sights and sounds of a newborn captured my heart.
Now, Annie is getting ready for her 8th grade graduation dinner and dance! Dress, heels, nails done. The baby has grown into such a beautiful young lady! My heart is still held and my awe has grown along with her.
Again, Then and Now
My little girl has brought me her little girl! I’ve often said a daughter has her daddy wrapped around her little finger as I’ve lived and loved Megan. Now a granddaughter will do the same. (And a grandson will too, but that’s another story for another post!)
Now neither is little any more! The joy is still there – and has grown greater and greater – but I’m outnumbered and outweighed. I haven’t a chance…
But On That Night …
We all took turns in wonder. Mother gets her turn first. Amid the hallmarks of modern medicine, the emotions of birth and a newborn shine clearly.
Then father gets his turn. The precious armful requires his full attention as he too is immersed in this moment.
Granny Carolyn Lynn is also smitten. The room is full of life and love.
Now grandfather. Pop Pop as he will be called. (Need I say that Megan and Chris talked to us beforehand to arrange our names. Mark is “G-dad!”) Perhaps joyous amazement is my strongest feeling, even today as I remember.
And so
An Adventure Begins!
Annie’s first formal portrait! Her adventure begins and we are her guides – at least for awhile. And our adventure is increased and enriched by her presence.
For us, the adventure begins simply. Our fingers with hers.
Our smiles and love to give her comfort.
Our faces to let her feel loved and secure.
Our hands and awe to share our joy at her being.
Our gaze to let her feel she will grow in love throughout her life.
A Home Becomes a Her Castle.
The home has been made ready – as well as anyplace can be made ready. I still laugh at this picture. Megan was brought home in her hospital baby bath resting on the seat between Robin and me as car seats weren’t required way back then!
While Annie will have no memory of this – except as she’s seen the picture – I know that the warmth and love of grandmother and her doggie are what turned this apartment into a home.
I know Annie felt the colors and warmth of her bedding also helped make the apartment a loving home.
While Annie might not know she could feel the love.
She could grow in the strength and care of her father
She could feel the meaning of family.
She was home.
