Friday, December 18, 2009

Fulfilling a retirement goal


One of my top reasons for retiring in 2008 was to be part of our grandchildren’s lives while they are still small. Nine days caring for grandchildren this month – four days with our 21-month-old granddaughter in Louisiana and five days with three of our four Georgia grandchildren -- have showered me with the blessings of retirement and affirmed that my decision to retire was the correct one.

Here are just a few of the blessings of these latest visits:
# 1 Experiencing a Nativity story acted out by Fisher Price Little People and a Santa, snowman and reindeer, all under the direction of a 21-month-old. Molly Kate’s version included Joseph coming by to share his snack of “yogurts” with Baby Jesus.

#2 Bath time laughter. Seven-year-old grandson Luke discovered that a dab of no-tears baby body wash in the mouth allowed him to create super-sized bubbles. He sent his brother and Nana into paroxysms of laughter.

#3 Observing the transfer of knowledge between siblings. What a delight it was to observe five-year-old grandson Nate inducting his 19-month-old-sister into the skills and excitement of wielding a light saber. Towers of blocks fell to the two fledgling Jedi warriors as Nate built and rebuilt towers for himself and his sister to knock down.

# 4 Being with grandchildren when they wake up. Morning wake ups are always a great time for snuggling, confidences and pure grandparent joy.

# 5 Having a glimpse of the daily pattern of grandchildren’s lives.

#6 Having daughters-in-law and sons who trust us to take care of their little ones.

# 7 Having daughters-in-law who provide written notes about food, schedules and other pertinent information that help ensure a safe and happy time for their offspring as well as Nana and Baboo.

Thank you God for the blessings of family -- and retirement!

1 comment:

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