As I understand it, the grandparents do the bulk of raising their grandchild, while the parents work. As a foreigner they are usually anxious for us to notice their precious charges (what parent doesn't like their children noticed) but, we are unique and seem to attract a lot of respect. So, they will watch us and if we respond to the child they smile widely and work very hard to have the child wave, or acknowledge us. Most children are afraid and many will cry. A very few will smile I've only had a couple laugh. Today on the bus, a middle-aged man with a small 2 year old, caught me watching. I was watching an admiring his gentle manner with the child. His obvious pleasure of holding her and caring about her comfort and talking to her so gently pointing out things and rehearsing words. His eyes had a twinkle of love. He thought I was admiring the baby and had her wave and say "hello", she didn't cry but she viewed me with suspicion nevertheless. So why is this blog worthy? Because I miss our beautiful grandchildren. Because I hope you will hold them a little more, play with them a little more, enjoy them a little more. Parenting is hard work. But clearly the love showed in his eyes to me a foreigner. Love is thing your children will also see in your eyes and feel in your touch. I wish I could show you this man's eyes. They were eyes of love, patience, joy and wisdom. Lucky baby girl.... Luckier Grandpa !!! I am so glad to be a grandparent, and I miss you!