Months ago my son asked if I would be interested in coming out to Boston to stay with their two young children while he and Carolyn went to academic seminars in San Diego. Here's the logistics: one of them flies out to meetings on the Monday of the week, flies back home on Wednesday, and then leaves for San Diego Thursday morning. Grandma arrives in Boston on Thursday, the other parent flies out Friday morning early for San Diego. First parent returns on a red-eye Saturday night (arriving Sunday morning w/delicious bagels); other parent returns in the early evening. Whew...Not done yet---Grandma leaves to return home Monday afternoon/evening, arriving in Seattle about 10 pm.
It is safe to say that the adults in this story might be dragging today! (More stories from my travels next time!)
I loved activities with my grandchildren: Playing games like: "I'm Going on a Trip" and "Huckle Buckle Beanstalk," making Mad-libs on the computer, drawing, reading, and going out for Chinese food.
The weather was a bit difficult: 20 degrees upon my arrival, with bitter winds. Taking them to school and picking them up required me to layer clothing and cover my face. And still I'm gargling this morning for my sore throat!
I came away with several important lessons: I'm getting older and have less energy; my grandchildren think about things I never, ever thought of---perhaps even as an adult, much less as a child; imagination is priceless; and hugs from grandchildren (and their parents) feel sooooo good!
This Thanksgiving, no matter what difficulties we are facing, we can find many things for which to be grateful.
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