Nothing Like a Baby

Yesterday I had the wonderful privilege of holding sweet baby Joel for over 2 hours while he slept a lot and was awake a little, and he was just so cute! My arms ached some when I finally had to give him back to his mother, but I was filled with joy at the great opportunity to hold a delightful little baby, and rejoice in such a beautiful little blessing from God.

What is it about a baby that makes them so cute - no matter what they're doing? I guess it's as my mom says, "There's just nothing like a baby." Their perfect little fingers and toes, their big eyes and cute little nose, their soft skin and chubby cheeks all show God's special handiwork.

Now, I know that babies aren't always pleasant. I've been around quite a few screaming babies that I couldn't quiet. I've walked the floor with them, trying to get them to sleep, even in the middle of the night a few times. I've changed many an unpleasant diaper. I've had them make messes on me. But, I still love them, and cherish every opportunity I get to hold them.

And, babies do grow up. 3 of "my babies" are now toddlers... but they're still so sweet! I babysat a family of 5 children last night, and baby of the family is already almost 2 years old! I've babysat him since was only a little more than a month old, and now he's running around with the rest of his siblings, scarcely still. He still loves to be held and cuddled however, and I kept scooping him into my arms and giving him kisses, for I just couldn't resist! =)

One day, I hope to marry, and have babies of my own, ones that I won't have to give back eventually to their mothers. I know that it won't be easy, and I know that it will be tiring, but I'm still looking forward to it. But for now, I'll just have to be content with my nieces and nephews. In fact, Maria's expecting her third child in November, and it's probably a girl! I'll also take every opportunity that comes my way to cuddle a little baby, if only for a moment. For there IS nothing like a baby.