Learning the Routine

I have to learn the routine every time I help out with the grandchildren.  The routine changes, of course, because the kids are growing up, changing their eating habits, and the school is letting out at a different time, and the dance class has moved from Thursday to Monday.  A grandma has to be on her toes if she wants to keep up with all the changes.

Some things never change, though.  If you're fortunate to spend enough time with your grandkids, you'll develop a very special relationship with them.  This morning James was really fussy during his morning nap.  Maman had left for work and he was realizing that he was stuck with Grandma for the day.  He couldn't or wouldn't go to sleep.  So I laid down on the bed beside his crib, where he could see me.  I closed my eyes; pretty soon his eyes were closed, too, and once his breathing became regular I opened my eyes to see him sleeping so peacefully!  I'm sure he'll fuss again when he wakes up, but gradually he'll get used to me.

I hope that we'll share special memories and special times together.  I will almost always color, read a story, play catch or go for a walk.  Because I live far away, I won't be able to attend tennis matches, or school plays, or Grandparents' Day at school (do they do that in France?), but I will be able to listen to detailed accounts of soccer goals, commiserate about stupid boyfriends, send gifts and letters, and share some vacation time.   And when I am with them, I will make that time count.  Which is what we should all do anyway, for today is all we have.