Big love in little ways

If parenting can be summed up in one word, then that word is LOVE.

Yes, becoming a parent requires one to know how to love unconditionally. We give everything we have without any hope of getting something in return. But then again, this love does have its rewards. Sometimes, we just have to open our eyes well to see how our love is being returned to us by our kids.

Our son, as young as he is, has his ways of making us feel that we are special from everyone else. There is that certain recognition that we are his parents and that he loves us as well.

1. Late night joy.

Zye never sleeps until we get home. Even if he does, he always wakes up whenever we are already home. We have observed this since his second month. I must say too, that this cannot be a coincidence. It happens everytime. No matter how late it gets, he waits for us always.

2. Smile for mommy.

There are those days when I get caught up on a lot of things and I would ask my son's yaya to take care of him while I do my writing. I sometimes find myself guilty of not being able to spend enough time with my son even if I am home. He stares at me while I am in front of my laptop as if waiting for me to play with him. So I start saying I'm sorry and explain why I cannot play with him. His eyes will suddenly brighten up and his lips will curve to a big smile as if telling me, "It's okay mommy. I'll wait 'till you're able to play with me."

3. Daddy is home.

It touches me to see that our son gets really excited when his daddy gets home. By the time Dong arrives, Zye is wide-eyed and smiling from ear-to-ear. He waits for his time with daddy. At first, I was afraid that Dong and our son don't have enough quality time with each other. But Zye is not demanding. Though how short it seems, he cherishes his time with his dad. Talk about being loved.

4. Hugs and Kisses.

Every night, before going to bed, Dong and I takes one side of Zye's cheek and plant kisses on him at the same time. It's a little ritual that we have before going to bed. Zye doesn't kiss back yet. But he gives this back with a very hearty laugh...one that makes us plant more kisses on him.

I am happy and blessed to know that our son loves us. And moreover, he does have his "baby ways" of showing how he loves us. I cannot ask for more, but I know there is still a lot in store for us to feel and experience.

I can just see myself getting teary-eyed when he learns to say, "I love you mommy and daddy!"

This is my entry to the 4th edition of Pinoy Parenting Blog Carnival hosted by Doc Joey. Such a great way to share my thoughts and to read those of the other parents as well. Cheers to all the parents out there who never gets tired of loving their kids.