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I held my five day old grandson in my arms for the first time yesterday.  I was not prepared for the feelings that engulfed me.

We have three other grandchildren, but by the time we met them, they were old enough to be shy, to want their mothers more than to be held by some stranger that they had never met before.  I have yet to meet my granddaughter, and fear I will never have a close relationship with her.  It saddens me beyond words.

This little life, this innocent child, I have known since he was but a mere bump in his mother’s belly.  I have watched him grow and develop even before he made his entrance into this bright world.  He was born on November 25th and weighed in at 6 pounds, 12 ½ ounces.  He was 19 inches long.  Our son says he is a quiet baby; rarely cries except for when he is hungry or at diaper change.  I told him to enjoy this, for it will not last.  I don’t think he believes me quite yet. 

We were not present at his entrance to this new world.  Our wonderful first snowfall prevented the hour drive north, but as soon as we were able, we made the trip.  Our son was waiting for us at the door.  He still looks a little overwhelmed.  Almost like he cannot believe he had a hand at creating something so wonderful.  The first thing I did when I came in the door was ask my daughter-in-law if I could have my grandson.  She was nice enough to hand him over.  She probably sensed there would have been a fight had she not. 

To hold that little body next to my heart; to smell that new baby smell; the feel of the soft baby skin under my lips; my heart opened and I fell head over heels in love with this new little person.  Just like I did with every one of my sons.  Honestly, it was a lot overwhelming and totally unexpected.  I don’t know what I was expecting, but it was not that outpouring of love that I left.  His grandfather quickly took him away from me and I watched his face as he held his grandson in his arms and I could see the same thing happening to him that I had just gone through.  We are goners. 

Our son and his wife are talking about coming to our home for Thanksgiving.  You can bet they will be, even if I have to go get them myself.  I can see frequent trips for my husband and myself to visit our grandson, also. 

The circle of life continues.  The enormous capacity for love continues.  Another person has been added to the list of people for whom I would give my life.  A very tiny person, but one I hope will bring much joy into the lives of the people he touches.  He has had a very good start already.