Our beloved grandson, Brooks, came to town a few weeks ago. Oh, and Caitlin and Cam came too. Ha-ha. There aren't words to describe the awe and delight I get from just watching Brooks dart around the room. He seemingly went from walking to running overnight. Now, he only runs.

What I found particularly touching was his reaction to his Uncle Brett. The best way to describe Brett is that of a giant, blind infant. 

Brooks stared at him with consternation for several minutes before saying, “Up.” And then again, “Up!”

I can just imagine what was playing out in that bright little mind of his…okay, you’ve been lying there plenty long enough, now it’s time for you to get up and play with me.

He squatted down close to his face, probably trying to get him to look at him. How enchanted Uncle Brett would be if he could see him! Someday, my sweet Brettski, someday.

“You need to be very gentle with your Uncle Brett,” Caitlin cautioned.

Brooks has been taught what “gentle” means, and his sweet little fingers stroked Brett’s face very softly. Awww!

He watched with particular interest when I changed Brett’s diaper and then got his bottle ready. I asked Brooks if he’d like to give Brett his bottle. He got to me in record timing, hands outstretched to take the bottle.

“Mom! Don’t give it to him. He’ll just drink it himself.”

Of course, I didn’t listen to her and gave it to him anyway. I had to laugh as he quickly grabbed it, and with his arms held straight out, ran to put it in Brett’s mouth. 

“Good job, Brooks!”  At which he stopped and clapped for himself—his standard response to being praised for the slightest achievement.

Brett makes involuntary noises and will occasionally rub his hand against his belly. Brooks mimicked both perfectly. Adults might not be able to speak Brett’s “language,” but Brooks had no trouble communicating with him. It was hysterical. 

I’d give anything to live close to them. I’ve begged Caitlin to just put me on FaceTime and put me on a shelf in their living room.

“Mom. You’d never see him. He never stays in one place, he doesn’t stop running from room to room.”

“But surely I could catch a glimpse of him running by once in a while. I’ll settle for that.”

Unfortunately, Brooks isn’t a fan of FaceTime. As soon as he sees me, he says, “Bye!”

blows me a kiss and runs off. Shucks. 

Every grandparent I know tells of not being able to describe the joy grandchildren bring. I’m thrilled to have joined the club…and they're right, there really is no describing it.