THE FIRST DAY The very first time that I held you, you were barely a few minutes old. A tiny blue eyed, pink bundle, with hair the color of gold. In that very moment you became, the keeper of my heart. Through you I learned the special bond of love only a grandchild can impart. T'is said "a grandchild is a parent's reward" and I believe it is true, for I've experienced pure joy in life, in the time I've spent here with you. Today I look back and wonder over where five years have flown. In my heart, I still hold you a baby, yet my eyes tell me how you've grown. I watched you take the steps today, as you climbed on board the bus. My heart broke a little as I accepted the fact, it will never again be "just us". When you looked for me in the window, I didn't want you to see me cry. So I wiped away the tears in my eyes, smiled and waved goodbye. I know the world will keep turning, too soon school will be part of your past. One day you'll be the Grandma in the window, sadly wondering where the time went so fast. by Patricia Hinz Johnston