I became a Grandfather for the first time three months ago next week. It's quite a revelation for me in a variety of ways. I have experienced many "firsts" with this little girl and none of them have been negative or problematic. Though I'm only three months into this Grand-parenting thing, I already like Grand-parenting better than parenting! The usual reaction I get to that statement is, "duh!". Duly noted.
I guess the most profound revelation for me was that I have never, in my 61 years, been around a newborn, nor held one. My granddaughter was the first. (my son came to me at age 10) Up until birth, I was rather calm and casual about the whole process. I wasn't particularly stimulated or excited about it all, but I was looking forward to becoming a Grandfather. I have to say that holding my granddaughter when she was less than an hour old was an experience for which I wasn't prepared. It was very emotional and bonding. I have to say, in less than two minutes she had me. From that point on I knew that she would get whatever she wants or needs from me!
What has been so revealing and fun to discover is how quickly babies grow and how each step in their development is a wonderful discovery. These are all little things, and if you've been a parent, you're more than familiar with them. But having never had babies in my life, I am fascinated and thrilled by the smallest things. Her first smile was magic and now, the fact that she smiles whenever she sees me is better than getting a massive refund from the IRS!
To be completely candid, I think most males see babies as cute and great in their own way but I think many guys are really waiting for that baby to crawl or learn to communicate...to get to a point where they are more fun. I used to think like that but now I find every subtle change and development in my granddaughter to be utterly fascinating and a cause for celebration. Just recently she discovered her laugh! THAT IS JUST AWESOME! Now I can tell her all my stupid knock-knock jokes and at least SHE will find them funny!
So at this point, I am taking this baby thing day by day. I can't wait to follow her development, triumphs and struggles day by day. It really does rejuvenate a person to have a vested interest in seeing a new life develope. The reality is that this little girl totally owns me now. And I'm okay with that.
