Like most people, I have no recollection of my first Christmas. I suspect the same will be true for my new grandson, a little under three months old today.
Over the last three weeks spent with him, the likelihood my grandson would not recall anything about his first Christmas did not dissuade me from imagining otherwise. And in my egotistical fantasies, the only gift he would remember would be one I gave to him.
Early today, I realized how much I was looking forward to feeding the little man again. I grabbed my journal to record that pleasant anticipation. Then something told me to go back and read some of my recent journal entries.
Be fully present for Leo in any way I'm needed during the time spent with him. The moment I read that sentence from my journal, written a few days before we left home for this extended visit, the dual meaning of the word present struck me anew. In the end, isn't being present for this new life the best possible present I can give? It doesn't matter at all if he remembers. I'll remember and always be grateful I was here sharing his first Christmas with him.
Hey Pat. And, again, welcome the wonderful world of being a grandparent. I also doubt (know) that my grandsons will not recall their first Christmas with Pop Pop. As an aside, despite my daughters best attempts of having her children refer to the female grandparents as 'Grandma' followed by their name, and the male grandparents called 'Grandpa' followed by their names her, twin, sons - on their own when they started to talk - started calling me Pop Pop. All the other grandparents met my daughter's criteria but not me. And I love that !!! But, I digress big time with that aside. Thankfully in this day and age one is never far from a camera. And a digital camera at that so there's no limitations or delays with having to change the rolls of film. yeah .. we're all that old - lol. Anyway, on the day that the twins were born we were at the hospital waiting. Couldn't possibly wait at home for a phone call. When we were finally able to see the boys - in the Nic Unit as twins/premie's are usually placed after they're born - I had my cell phone camera at the ready and started 'clicking' away. By the time I was done I had taken 273 pictures and about 14 videos. And the point to all of this, is that that was just the beginning. They might not actually remember their first Christmas, or birthdays, or any number of firsts but it will not be for lack of photo/video. They will always have those to look at. And you are right, my friend. 'Present' takes on a nice meaning when it comes to grandchildren .. and children as well. And I have no doubt that you and Kim will make your presence known and felt. Even from one coast to the other.
ReplyDeleteBe well,
Bob
Bob; Like you, I'm thrilled to be part of the grandparent club. Thanks for the comment.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful, Geep. Thanks for being present with my son. <3
ReplyDeleteAlison; I'm so grateful to be in his life, in any way I can. He's a part of me now - as you've been since the day you were born.
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