I sat on the end of the couch watching my new grandson, Alex, snuggle on the shoulder of his proud Pappy. A perfect tiny fist curled around Allan’s shirt, as if to say this is something special to hold onto. Occasionally, Alex’s lower lip would move in that special rhythm of sucking. Later…now was cuddle time for dreaming. Soft sounds of contentment mingled with the surrounding conversation. I found it hard to look away from this wonder of love and hope and grace.
Just beyond the couch my son was deep in lunchtime preparations. He chopped, diced, sliced and sautéed. I wondered when he managed to learn what those words even meant, let alone how to perform them. He brought us up to date on his job, his friends, and future plans. In no time at all we were treated to freshly prepared pasta primavera and homemade meatballs.
My daughter and daughter-in-law checked out the nursery and shared ideas about books and new Netflix series.
I joined the conversations and savored my turn with the cuddle-bug. But mostly I sat and watched and listened, taking in the pure joy that comes from spending an afternoon with those you love.
It was the perfect visit.
I think it a bit ironic that my OLW for 2018 is momentum. “Momentum” is defined as speed of movement, and since my knee replacement surgery two weeks ago, my physical speed of movement has been seriously lacking. I am grateful for in-home physical therapy, friends who visit and bring dinners, and my attentive full-time husband-nurse. But I am anxious to get moving again. People have reminded me that healing takes time, and that I need to be kind to myself. While I am improving every day, I think I expected quicker results.
When I was about ten, I entered a writing contest in a children’s magazine. The task was to write a story ending. All I remember was that the story was about some kids who went to school one day and found that it was closed. I was sure I had the “right” answer. What else could it be but that they forgot it was Saturday?
Imagine the Possibilities 