Grandma's Joy

 

My last post was the day before I left to spend two weeks visiting my son and his family who live several states away. Today, I have recently returned from that trip with a full heart from spending time with my grandchildren. At this point in my life, nothing brings me more joy than being with my grands in person and sharing special moments with them. And this trip was FULL of special moments!

In 14 days, I attended four programs or concerts featuring one or more of my grandchildren; I was privileged to spend a day at their school visiting classrooms, attending chapels, and eating lunch together in celebration of “Grand Day”, an annual event for grandparents of students; we worshipped together at their church for Good Friday and Easter services; we celebrated my younger grandson’s 5^th birthday; and I was blessed to be able to witness in person my two granddaughters’ baptisms as they publicly declared their faith in God and desire to follow Jesus. And it is always a highlight when we’re together to “bake with Grandma” . . . this time special cross-shaped brownies for Easter weekend. It was a busy but wonderful time!

But while I enjoyed attending all of these events and feel blessed to have the opportunity, I think it is the unplanned moments with my grandchildren that mean the most. Like when your 5-year-old grandson burrows into you while watching TV and says, “I love it when you hug me . . . I love to snuggle you.” Or when you hear the words, “Grandma, I’ve missed you so much,” or “I love you so much.” Or when your 5-year-old and 10-year-old grandsons squeeze together into a narrow seat with you on the couch because they both want to “sit with Grandma”. Or the simple beauty of a grandchild spontaneously leaning against you or holding your hand. I could go on, but you get the picture.

The distance between our homes means I don’t see my grandchildren as often as I would like to. But these special moments and memories are what keep me going in between visits. And they remind me that I play an important role in my grands’ lives despite the sparseness of our time together . . . and that God is forming a bond between us as only he can do. Looking forward to our next adventures together down the road!