Wow! My daughter-in-law gave birth to a daughter last week. Having given birth myself to a couple of pretty amazing people (if I do say so myself!), I thought I was prepared for this event.

Uh-uh, no way and not a chance! When a tiny life is placed in your care, life takes on a whole new meaning. I’ve been there and it’s incredible. So where does this overwhelming feeling come from when that life is placed in your child’s care? I have to admit, I’ve been set back on my heels. I never expected this. This little wee person is absolutely perfect in every way — from her gorgeous little toes to the top of her not quite bald head. She’s no different than anybody else’s perfect baby.

Except that she evokes emotions in me that I didn’t remember existed. The maternal instinct is indeed alive and well even in those of us beyond child-bearing age.

I thought I was enjoying the grandma gig with my step-grandchildren, and I am. You may have seen me at the Light Up Night parade, shepherding them along, and we had fun! I do believe the affection grows exponentially and they are dearer to me than ever too.

So I now understand the whole grandma’s picturebook thing — what did we ever do before smart phones? There I was at the hospital, snapping pictures from every angle; the poor kid was not even half an hour old! And now I’m looking for people to show those pictures to.

Well, insisting they have a look might be more accurate. I have pictures of Mommy and baby, Daddy and baby, and each sibling and baby. But of course I have a favourite… so here you have a picture of Samantha Marie Berry, less than half an hour old in her Grandma’s arms.

Blessings to all the grandparents out there!

Marilyn Berry is an active member of the valley community and can be reached at maberry7@yahoo.com.