The joy of a grandparents' love

Dear Readers, There is no love on earth like that between grandparents and their grandchildren. I'm sure you can relate to the way your parents or in-laws get stars in their eyes when your babies are around them.

It is sprinkled with family pride and nostalgic reminders of their own parenting milestones. The connection, which is often emphasized by a larger age gap brings a joy that is different than that between a child and their mother or father. I witnessed this today when Evangeline spent the day with my parents; her nanny and grampy. My parents had to wait a long time to become grandparents. I don't think I have mentioned in my blog that I'm an only child, so in a way, the pressure is on! Nick and I have been together for 18 years (married for 15). Frankly, they deserve a medal for their patience as we weren't sure parenthood was even for us. I'm so glad they get to have these moments now. I enjoy watching them be silly and act young again. We get so serious and cynical as adults. Evangeline was playing with her toys on a blanket on the floor, playing with her toys and started rolling around (we think she'll crawl soon). Smiling, mom lays down on the floor and starts rolling beside her. I don't think I have seen her get down on the floor like that since I was a child, myself. The discomfort from aging muscles temporary goes away. Mom and dad first met Evangeline the day after her she was born. While my memory from those first few days is fuzzy (mostly from lack of sleep and surgery medications), I do remember capturing this one perfect moment when they came to visit.

Mom is sitting in the recliner cradling Evangeline in her arms; she is wrapped in the hospital receiving blanket and had a little bow around her head that was made by one of the nurses. Dad knelt down, rested his hand on the chair and stared at her in amazement. Judging by his expression, she was the most beautiful and precious thing he had ever laid his eyes on. I knew from that moment, they would do anything in their power to ensure she is always safe, healthy and has whatever she needs. They will always be two key people in her village. That tiny dark-haired girl was the center of the photo and has been the center of their lives ever since.