Welcome spring, and welcome little one!

Springtime has arrived. Flowers are popping up here and there, grass is getting green and trees are beginning to bud. Right in time with the other new beginnings of the season, on the first day of spring to be exact, our newest grandson, Layton Edward VanSandt, made his appearance. He's quite a little flower blossom, a precious little bundle of sweetness and just perfect in the opinion of this smitten grandmother.

So, life for our family has changed a lot since I last wrote. It is amazing how something so small can make such a big impact. Of course, we weren't surprised by this, as this is our fourth grandson, but the miracle of it all and the excitement for the family is just the same each time.

Layton doesn't do much at this stage, but he is still fun to watch. Yawns, stretches, hiccups and changes in expression are all intriguing when a little one is so new. Even watching him sleep can be entertaining. And it is almost as much fun to watch the impact he has on the adults around him. Hearts melt and big guys become gentle giants. Babies tend to make those of us who would usually only sing in the shower break into impromptu renditions of lullabies, baby talk, making funny faces and spending time, lots of time, staring at their little faces. We don't act like this any other time, but around babies we just can't seem to help ourselves. It is just one of those things.

In anticipation of Layton's arrival, we were all curious how the former "baby of the family," and now "big brother," Canyon, would react to the new baby's arrival. His parents had prepared him as much as possible ahead of time. Upon introduction at the hospital, Canyon's face told the story. Although interested, "less than impressed" was the message that came with his first glance. That little squirming thing swaddled in a blanket was not the playmate he was expecting. On a side note, for some reason, a newborn makes a 3-year-old suddenly look half grown. In time, no doubt, the two will become great friends.

Little Layton is blessed to have so many waiting with open arms to love and care for him. In addition to Canyon, he has two other big brothers, Dylan and Glendon, standing ready to teach him the ropes, not to mention his parents and a variety of other relatives including doting grandparents. Interestingly, the family felt complete before, but now we can't imagine life without the new one.

Although I don't often utilize my column space for "Let me tell you about my grandchildren" sessions, today was an exception. It is difficult to think of other topics when our big news is having this new little guy on board.

I am looking forward to warm days ahead and opportunities for baby Layton to be introduced to the colorful flowers and singing birds brought on by a new season.

Welcome spring, and welcome little one!

Annette Rowe is a freelance writer from rural Gentry and a speech-language pathologist at Siloam Springs High School. She may be reached by email at [email protected] Opinions expressed are those of the author.

Editorial on 04/02/2014