"Can you watch the kids for the weekend?" What grandparent doesn't love to hear that? That's an invitation to spend time spoiling adorable children, who of course take after you (at least when they show admirable qualities!). It's time to re-acquaint yourself with just how labor-intensive kids needs are and how much they liven life up. And it's a chance to build memories and share family traditions.
I did not have grandparents as I was growing up. Three of the four had already died when I was born and the remaining grandparent chose not to be involved with family. I really wish I had grandparents for I saw my parents and in-laws serve as wonderful grandparents for my kids. The more caring adults with unconditional love that a child has in their lives the better. I know my kids received fun, wisdom, a sense of place and are now learning about the passing of the generations from those grandparents. For all of this I am grateful.
So when people ask "what did you do this weekend?" and I reply "watched the grandkids", I will know it wasn't just babysitting services that were offered. I will know it was so much more.
I did not have grandparents as I was growing up. Three of the four had already died when I was born and the remaining grandparent chose not to be involved with family. I really wish I had grandparents for I saw my parents and in-laws serve as wonderful grandparents for my kids. The more caring adults with unconditional love that a child has in their lives the better. I know my kids received fun, wisdom, a sense of place and are now learning about the passing of the generations from those grandparents. For all of this I am grateful.
So when people ask "what did you do this weekend?" and I reply "watched the grandkids", I will know it wasn't just babysitting services that were offered. I will know it was so much more.
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