Oh for the Pleasure of Grandchildren

Braggin Rights

When we first learned we were to be grandparents, I promised my husband I would not carry pictures and boast about our grandchild the way we had witnessed similar behavior among our friends. Well, I have to admit that is one promise I failed to keep!

Until I actually became a grandmother, I couldn’t possibly have imagined the joy a grandchild would bring, the fun it would create, and the pleasurable experiences we would have. For some of us, including myself, we were so busy “parenting” that many of the daily developments of our growing children escaped notice because of all our other responsibilities.

This is not true when one becomes a grandparent. I often joke that my grandson is the only person that can keep me from doing what I thought was important. Grandchildren are joyful, free entertainment. Every single action, sound, new accomplishment is met with incredible enthusiasm and pride. By their very nature, they are curious, delightful, and full of laughter. We can sing, dance, clap hands, jump, play and read together with no other cares or concerns but to be together.

One of my favorite shared experiences is bath time. It’s fun to be splashed by water, blow bath bubbles at each other, sink floating toys, and tickle shriveled toes. I can sit and watch my grandson for a long time as he collects water in his plastic cup, pours it on his head and belly and laughs. Even wrapping him up afterward in a warm towel and holding him close is cause for celebration.

Grandchildren are angels in life form. They are loving spirits, innocent, beautiful, precious and special. Their only responsibility is to learn, observe, experiment, and show us by example that life is a miracle. It’s fascinating to watch young children. They marvel at their toes, fingers and belly-button, giggle when they smile, and take delight in all their surroundings.

All children are love. They awaken in us awe and wonderment. Perhaps I was too young and too busy to take all this in when my children were young. At least at this stage in my life I get to revisit those experiences through my grandchildren! Just ask me! I’d be delighted to tell you about all four of my grandsons.