Babies

I haven't seen my grandson since he was a month old. That was only two months ago, yet he has changed so much. He is a happy and undemanding child who knows what he wants and just asks for it when he is ready. He sits contentedly in his car seat or lays in his crib quietly, not fussing or thrashing about, not caring if he is looking at the ceiling or someone's face.

If he is hungry, he gives you a quiet warning cry. If you don't respond right away, he gets louder. Same with a messy diaper. You have lots of time to respond, and once you take care of his need, he is happy again.

More rewarding is the smile and singing you get if you read him a book or talk to him or take him someplace interesting. He drinks it all in, his eyes wide open. When he is extraordinarily satisfied, like right after a bottle or if you have played with him for a bit, he sings and coos from some snuggly place deep inside. His response is so natural it reminds me of the purring of a cat when you pet it properly.

I don't know what this child's future holds, but I suspect he will get along well with people. He will be one of those rare individuals who will be easy to please and content with wherever he finds himself. How fascinating that babies exhibit their distinct personalities almost from the womb, if not before. I am glad for the opportunity to get to know this young one and look forward to spending more time with him as he grows.