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And during this past year, especially the last couple of weeks, I have a new way of seeing the world. It is a way that I have not used in years. I have seen the world through the eyes of someone who has never seen the world. Of course, I mean my grand-moose Owen.
As some of you know my wife and I babysit him almost everyday for about two hours. During those hours, Owen and I have our special time together. I take him for a walk in his stroller. It is good for my back and a good bonding experience for both of us.
During these walks we stop to feel the textures of different types of trees and leaves. Some, like a cedar are soft. Some, like a pine are hard and prickly. Some leaves are different shapes and colours. Trees trunks can be smooth or rough. Pine cones can be hard but brittle.
As we go along we stop at fire hydrants with there bright yellow colour. Then it is on to the mail boxes which make a great drum sound when hit hard enough. The power boxes and street lamps all make different sounds and each has a different feel.
The sand at the playground is a must. Sometimes it can be wet and sticky and sometimes warm and able to run through your fingers.But always fun for digging.
The last couple of days we have changed our route. We know go over to a pond that is home to ducks and geese. It takes him a few minutes to realize they are there. But, once they start to move into the water with their waddling gate, they became an object of intense scrutiny. And also great amusement. For some reason, these birds make him laugh out loud and talk? with great excitement. Owen will sit there for the longest time, just watching the geese and ducks as they swim. He will point to different ones and make some comment. And as most babies are, he is a great mimic. As the geese honk back and forth to each other, he joins in with almost exactly the same sound.
And when they take flight with the great flapping of wings, he is delighted. He will watch very quietly and wave good-bye.
As for me, I too delight in the sights and sounds as I see and hear them with his innocence. I will try to teach him to always be in awe of nature around him. And to look at each new experience with delight.