Lessons from Grandchildren

Sometimes it is the simplest things that bring the most joy. Life gets so hectic and stressful. Lately, I have treasured up moments that refresh, and bring joy to me in simple ways.
Our little three year old grandson, Cameron, likes to call, just to say "I Love You" or to report a little thing that he enjoyed during the day. Ralph and I both are thrilled when he calls us. His older sister, Livvy, recently drew me a picture of a monkey in the rain forest. I loved her explanation about how the mother monkey holds her infant in her legs while she swings from the trees. I had never heard of that, but she had learned it in a video at school.

Last week, My mother in law called to say that they have beautiful poppies flowering in their back yard. She suggested that I try to get some photos, so Becky and I took 18 month old Rory, for pictures in the poppies. She was a little tired and not too cooperative, so I took her favorite horsie with us and she sat on him long enough for a few pictures. We managed to get a few smiles out of her when Becky balanced a big Tweety Bird stuffed animal on her head and let him fall off, accompanied with funny gestures and sounds! Silly mommy! Now, I love looking at the bright cheerful photos. I laugh at this one where Rory learned that Poppies do not smell like the roses at her house!

Monday, Jeff and Heather attended a funeral for a friend, and the children came here to play while they were gone. I had to laugh as they filled play dishes with dog food, and offered it to the dogs, who were more than happy to gobble it up.

Lance received some comfort from Oscar, when he did not get to go shopping with Grandpa and Cessna. Oscar was perfectly happy to let Lancie’s tears fall on his back as they gazed out the window together. Such a simple little thing, but it reminded me of days long gone when I was a child, and dressed up our puppies to take for walks in my doll buggy. They were my best friends and confidants. I could tell them all of my troubles and secrets, and it was all safe with them.

Lance enjoyed the horsie swing out in our big tree. Who could not be cheered watching his angelic little face, as he played outside?

Later, Rory came over for just a little while when her mom went to the store. She wants to be outside all the time recently. She found such enjoyment just sitting on top of the bark in the flower bed, picking it up, smelling each piece, then piling it up on a big rock. That reminded me of times when I was about 5 years old, smashing granite rocks with a hammer, and never tiring of seeing how they sparkled and glittered in the sunshine. Children are amused and entertained by such small and simple things. We older people need to slow down and get down on their level more often and see the world through their eyes.

Danielle and Braden were here Tuesday. I really enjoy their companionship. Braden talked a lot about basketball and football. I love how I have to look up at him now. He was showing me his new shoes size 9½ !! I get a kick out of his deep voice. Danielle was laughing and joking around with a friend from school, who happens to live in my ward. She invited him over to make cookies with her. I sent her to the store in my car, and she returned with the cookie ingredients AND Jace! Having them here yesterday, almost felt like going back in time to when my own teens were here at home and passing time with their friends.
Being a grandma is a really good thing. I’m planing a little trip to Idaho soon, and I will need Kylie to help me out with my crocheting! I will for sure increase my knowledge about rocks, birds, and flowers from Kylie, Ashley, and Lizzie. Who knows what else? I am so grateful for every one of my grandchildren and the love and enjoyment that they afford me.