Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Just like riding a bike.

That is what it is like to take care of a baby.  It all just comes back so naturally. 
Certainly one of the highlights of our Family Reunion Trip to Florida this Christmas season was spending time with our grandbaby, little Miss Evelyn.  Do you know how many years it has been since I have cared for a baby? Well, it has been a lot!  In fact, I will be taking "my baby" to BYU-Idaho this weekend to begin her freshman year. I hadn't changed a diaper in a VERY long time.



This sweet little thing charmed us all.  She was such a delightful, good-natured baby, so willing to put up with all that we asked of her, which included hours of stroller time in Walt Disney World.




Our little Evie even allowed us to shower her with gifts, showing proper appreciation by putting things promptly in her mouth.

While the rest of the family chose to walk on the wild side and venture onto Expedition Everest, Evelyn was quite content to stay with Grandma and wait.

Perhaps the most fun was in the evenings when Grandpa and I would volunteer to take Evelyn back to the hotel.  The others thought it sounded like fun to stay out late and ride the fast thrill rides, but Brian and I knew the real thrill was in getting Evelyn ready for bed, playing with her in the soft light of the Christmas tree. And watching her try to eat her toes...

As many of you know, I have been on a quest.  A quest for meaning.  A quest for fulfillment.  A quest for worthwhile use of my time.  I think as my nest is emptying of my adult children, I am ready to find plenty of space in my nest and time in my schedule for the next generation of Haws children with delightfully chubby cheeks just begging to be kissed.

And you know what?  It is so much fun to have someone who doesn't mind when Grandma pulls out her camera...

7 comments:

Nancy said...

Grandkids are the best! I agree about those chubby cheeks (and legs ;-)).....

Laura said...

She is ADORABLE!!!
If you need a diaper changing "fix", I have plenty of diapers that get changed at this house everyday. You are more than welcome stop in anytime to take a shift or two or three... :-)

Erica said...

I love that baby! I'm so excited to live near her!

Kim said...

What a cutie! A couple of the pictures made me smile from ear to ear! I remember my dad having so much fun with Anna at Disneyland when she was 6 months old. He still talks about that trip today and the fun he had holding her while we went on rides. How fun for you guys!!

Derek Young said...

I love her! :-)

Ivon said...

Ardith, grandchildren are awesome. I know how you felt hold your granddaughter. Thanks for including Derek in your family trip. He has memories that will last a long time.

neffie said...

She's adorable. That's the cutest picture of her trying to eat her toes.