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”
Facebook is filled with posts and images of children transitioning from one stage in life to another. There are the little ones who are going to pre-school for the first time. Their moms’ are both excited and nervous. Then there are the new middle schoolers and high school students. Perhaps the most touching of all are the young men and women who are going away for college. Their mamas are remembering the times that they held their babies in their arms and when they folded their baby clothes. Suddenly without warning childhood has ended and the babies are ready to spread their wings and work toward becoming totally independent from their parents. I sometimes wonder if the uncertainties of leaving home are more difficult for the mothers than they are for the young people who see the unknown as a well earned adventure. Life is suddenly very different and no matter how well everyone has prepared for the changes, they take all by surprise. 
I have a rather sassy granddaughter. She reminds me much more of my mother and mother-in-law than of myself or my daughters. I suppose that I secretly enjoy that she is so much more willing to assert herself than I ever was. I spent most of my childhood and teenage years being quiet and polite and even a bit repressed. I was truly afraid to be the person that I wanted to be or to express the opinions that rattled inside my brain. My granddaughter doesn’t even come close to being like that. 
For as long as I can remember I have always had something fun to do on the Fourth of July. There has always been someone hosting a big party or Mike and I have been traveling. I don’t recall ever just sitting at home with no destination in mind. This year was far different from any of my previous celebrations and I found the experience to be enlightening.
All It Takes Is A Little Love 