Read more from Kay here
Grandparents are in a unique position now that their own children have grown up. They have supported them and nurtured them through life's journey. There have been highs and lows, especially if like my husband and myself you have had children who have all had serious health issues.
Grandkids Coming Along
Once you have successfully got your family through life's challenges it's time to let go and let them make their own mark on the world. You hope you have sent them off with a good set of values and that they are well prepared for what life challenges might come their way. After some time and careers are established, you look forward to the hope there might be some grandchildren come along eventually.
I have four grandchildren. Sadly three of them live overseas and I don't get to see them that often. I really do miss having them close. However, I am lucky as I have my three year old grandson living in the same house as my husband and I. We live as an extended family with myself, my husband, my daughter, son-in-law and our grandson. I can quite honestly say it's a great set up and it works well.
Going into this arrangement I was unsure how it would work and there was no mention of family in the equation at that stage. Now nearly three and a half years later I simply cannot imagine life without my little grandson in it. I have been around him since the day he was born; I have seen every milestone and every special achievement. It has been such a privilege.
Looking after a little one again after so many years has its challenges and its rewards. When your own children are little you seem so much more preoccupied with other things as well as looking after a tiny infant. When you do it second time around there seems to be fewer pressures so you can just sit back, relax and enjoy the time you have together. You have new skills you can impart and it can be fun taking the time to see things through a little ones eyes all over again.
Smart Kids
I am amazed every day at his knowledge of anything technical – like iPads, iPods and computers. Being brought up in an age of all this modern technology is really amazing for these little ones. Their need to learn something new is never-ending. My grandson is such a sponge and I know he is going to be the one to teach me new things down the track. In fact he already is.
Being a grandparent is great and I know how much I loved and adored my granddad. In those days of course life was much simpler but it was great and he taught me a lot.
The bond between grandparents and grandchildren is special and I am so glad I am able to be one.
So make sure you find the time to spend with your little ones. They have unique gifts, and they also help to keep us young!
By Kay Rayner