kids day

i spent my time today with kids - from the newly born to the preps. i just didn't realize until now, that kid's toys are very expensive. as i was browsing for the perfect gift to give to a little boy who had just received a Best in Writing award in school, it seemed that the options are countless but the price are dear! i finally settled on a baseball catchball and tic-tac-toe, which i hope he'd learn how to play properly.

my first visit was to the newborn, though. i couldn't believe that anyone can be that small. she is so cute, the parents were just so proud! she has this thick hair (for a baby), red lips and very rosy cheeks (when she's about to cry). when i arrived at their place, which i found after getting lost and reaching greenhills (one blessing is that i'm now familiar with the area), the baby was sleeping peacefully. when i touched her though, she reacted and it was amazing to see her react with just a small touch. God is amazing and it reminded me of Richard Cypher's first encounter with magic -- touching a newborn child.

in a few years' time though, my friends' kid will just be as crazy, noisy and fun (but tiring!) to be with as the next pair of kids i visited. it was sean's graduation party. the other night, grace sent me a message telling me that sean was asking that i go to their place. he said he wants to have visitors but knowing this kid, i just knew that he wanted a gift. since he was given an award at school, i couldn't help but give him one. after all, he deserved it after all his hardwork (and for being obedient to his mother!). i'm just glad that he liked the gift i gave him now compared to the last time i gave him one - his reaction at that time was truly disappointing! you know, kids couldn't just hide what they think with a blank look like what most adults do! i guess i love them for that.

yet being with them today made me realize that raising a kid can really be a tough job! what makes it worthwhile is the kiss they give you to say 'thank you,' the smile they shower upon you, the embrace, the climb in your lap just to be with you, the effort they put in so that they can play with you and all that, and the love that they can give you unconditionally. there is nothing to compare that with nor anything that can top it.

my friends are lucky to have that. i know i will too -- soon.