It’s been quite some time since I was the mother of elementary and middle school age children. I remember those days as being some of the very best years of my life. I love little babies and toddlers are quite cute but parenting them is extremely exhausting. Ten and twelve year olds on the other hand are pretty much at the perfect time of life. They mostly fend for themselves and they are still innocent enough that they are loads of fun. Still, being responsible for children no matter how old is always very hard work, a full time job. It’s little wonder that nature gave that task to young and energetic adults.
I’ve been watching three of my grandchildren for a few days while their mom and dad are out of town. They are incredibly good kids with old fashioned manners and a set of routines that they follow without question. I haven’t had to worry about feeding the dogs, overseeing homework or even getting them to bed at a decent hour. They are quite independent and understand what their daily responsibilities are. Nonetheless, it is very different to suddenly be back in a role that I haven’t had to play for so long. It’s much like roller skating or riding a bicycle and I have gotten back into the groove without much fanfare but I suspect that I am only doing well because my daughter and son-in-law have already laid such a strong foundation with their children. I am actually in awe of how respectful and obedient my grandkids are while still having their own distinct personalities and independent ways of thinking. Continue reading “Cultivating the Roots of Family”
All It Takes Is A Little Love 