In the early morning, here at the Estate, I heard the most sweetest sound. It was a gentle noise from two little grand-babies. They were in their little beds, waking up to a new day.
Their little cries were so precious. They sounded like angels; like baby birds in a delicate nest. I wanted to run and pick them right up and kiss and hug the dear things!
These babies, and their darling mother, now live with us in an in-law apartment of our home. Helping to care for these children is the greatest "hobby" I could ever have.
When I hear their chatter or their yelling, I want to step right in and take care of them. It is the delight of my life to take care of babies and children. It is an honor to mother them.
But we grandmothers must keep our place of honor. It is the place of standing in the sidelines and watching mothers care for their own babies. We wait until we are called. We offer our humble help as willing servants of motherhood at any time we are needed.
In this case, the mother of my grandchildren is so kind and tells me I am welcome to help at any time. I hesitate on the threshold of her doorway and say, "Can I come in?" With a nod and a smile, I am welcomed.
Then I get right to work. Does someone need juice? Does another need a story read to them? Who will let me sing to them? I clean and tidy, setting up toys and games.
It is the joy of my life to make special treats for these darlings. I love to sit with them and listen to their chatter. It is entertaining to stop their childish fights and hear them laugh about it all. I want to kiss away their tears, listen to them laugh, and cherish their happy faces as they go about their days.
Some may find babies and small children a great deal of trouble. Caring for them is certainly a great deal of work. It is a sacrifice of time and energy. Some may complain their cries are annoying. Some may want quiet homes and little noise.
I prefer the patter of delicate feet, and echoes of jubilant laughter throughout the halls and stairwells. I can only hear the sound of angels. Caring for little ones is the work of Saints. It will make one patient, long-suffering, and loving if one will willingly yield to its work. It is the greatest missionary effort one could ever do.
blessings
Mrs. White
From the Archives -
Happy days - Confined to the Nursery.
The Real Truth - Why the High Cost of Food?
What Would Happen? - If I Visit You At the Dinner Hour.
Find Essays and Remembrances of Family and Home, in Mrs.White's book -Mother's Book of Home Economics . Paperback, 312 pages.
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