On Being a Grandmother

Six weeks ago my baby had her first baby. It was beautiful to watch the birth, and amazing to see this miniature person emerge and tell the world he has arrived. There is nothing more awesome than to witness the miracle of birth.

This is my second grandchild, and I am lucky that both children are healthy and well developed. I watch in amazement as each day they develop more skills, and their physical appearance changes. My oldest daughter has a little girl who is now 4, and she has been a wonder each time we see her.

Unfortunately, my oldest daughter lives with her family in Lansing, which is a 2 1/2 hour trip each way, so I don't get to see my granddaughter as often as I would like. Periodically she will come for an extended stay, and we will get some alone time to have tea parties, plant flowers and go for short outings. Her vocabulary is extraordinary, and because she is an avid observer, has taken on the mannerisms of those around her. I never knew I used the word "actually" as often as I do, until she started correcting people with "Well, actually......." It's amazing to see your reflection in other people.

I love being a grandmother. It doesn't make me feel old, like I thought it would. It makes me feel younger, and more energized. I have an opportunity to help mold another being, but I don't have the pressure of being solely responsible for them. This frees me to enjoy them more, and teach them things I never had time to teach their mothers or aunts and uncles. I can look back and see mistakes I made with my children and pass them along to their parents. I also get a chance to be a person their mothers turn to for guidance. It's amazing how much smarter we get as grandparents than we were as parents (in the eyes of our children).

My grandson and his mother will soon be moving in with me. It is, unfortunately, a necessary move until finances are better for both of us, but I am certain each of us will be working toward independence as soon as possible. Being a grandparent is a wonderful experience, but the biggest pleasure is that you only have the children for short spurts to energize you, and then can send them home so you can regroup.