Just One Look!

It was a truly amazing moment.

Last night, we had a dinner party in our living room for Kristin's birthday. (The dining room was too small for even the few family and friends she invited. Sooooo, exit coffee tables - enter bigger table and extra chairs. Smile.)

She and Frank decorated the room, I cooked, everyone else handled the assistant roles with great enthusiasm! We had the Schreck clan wait and come just at time to begin the meal. Kristin said someone had to be surprised by the lovely table. Smile.

When Spencer finally arrived, everything kicked into high gear. (I don't believe for one minute that his two loud grandmas congratulating one another had anything to do with it!)

It was a "Norman Rockwell" moment if I've ever experienced one.

The arrival; the gathering at the table; the prayer of blessing over the birthday girl; the smiles; the hugs; the laughter......... But those all pale in comparison to a split second that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Joy was holding Spencer who snoozed contentedly in Mom's sure hold. I stepped over and lightly kissed his sweet little head; quietly crooning about how perfect he is and how much Nana loves the boy - all in my lowest pitched, non-startling voice.

That's when it happened.

He jerked his head toward my voice in classic newborn fashion and began flickering his little eyes. I thought surely I was imagining, hoping, fabricating. But when his eyes finally focused, I knew...... Friends, I'm here to testify that the little guy responded as though he recognized my voice!

I could tear-up right now just telling you about it.

Everyone talked excitedly around us. Even Joy was unaware, I think. But in that moment, there were only two people in the room. Spencer and Nana. It's a picture I will rehearse and treasure always!

I didn't even hold him during the evening because the NY grandparents have to get on a plane and go home today. They needed all the snuggle time they could stock-pile.

But I didn't have to hold him. He reached up with those tiny blue eyes and held me.

(Deep Contented SIGH!! Smile.)