Reflecgtions on being a grandparent

I’m a grandparent … twice over. I am amazed and slightly jealous of those who announce that they have umpteen grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and even several great great grandchildren. They must have started much earlier than we did and their children followed suit.

We live in Bradenton because of our grandchildren. Margaret baby-sits four days a week and although she is exhausted when she gets home each evening she really won’t trade it for the world. She is in her element … and thank God, that the soon to be 3-year old hasn’t gone through her “terrible-twos” period. Oh, there have been meltdowns and more than one temper tantrums, but by in large she is very thoughtful and loving … can you guess that I’m bragging just a little.

Now her brother … well that is another case entirely. One of those, “if we had had him first we won’t have had another” syndromes … at times. He will melt your heart with his smile and warm your soul with his hugs. Strong willed is putting it mildly, but that kind of comes with the territory.
Grandchildren are precious, but I can full appreciate the grandparent who wrote the following:

GRANDPARENTS ANSWERING MACHINE

Good morning . . . At present we are not at home but please leave your
message after you hear the beep.

beeeeeppp ...

If you are one of our children, press 1
If you need us to stay with your children, press 2
If you want to borrow our car, press 3
If you want us to wash your clothes and do the ironing, press 4
If you want the grandchildren to sleep here tonight, press 5
If you want us to pick up the kids at school, press 6
If you want us to prepare a meal for Sunday or to have it delivered to your home, press 7
If you want to come to eat here, press 8
If you need money, press 9
If you are going to invite us to dinner, or take us out tonight -- start
talking.....we're listening !!!!!!!!

Frankly, I do not understand individuals who choose to move south to be in warmer weather and leave their children and grandchildren back up north. Oh, I don’t think that I would enjoy shoveling snow and fighting the icy roads, but my-oh-my those wintry conditions are simple inconveniences when compared to sharing the journey with your children and grandchildren.

So, if you have grandchildren (or children) hug them well, spend as much time as possible with them, spoil them rotten, shower them with praise, encourage them to take risks, share your journey with Jesus Christ with them and take time to have a tea party. Time is passing you by faster than you can imagine. Don’t miss out on their lives.