Monday, June 21, 2010

On Being a Grandma

One of the areas in my life that has changed dramatically is transitioning from "mom" to "grandma." How is it possible that I feel so young, yet am a grandmother? Happily, my darling Ray has helped me adjust to this new and very happy stage in my life. Being grandma to his grandpa actually feels good. We cherish every moment we have with our grandsons. I haven't had the opportunity to spend lots of time with Augie because he lives in Oregon with his parents. Despite the separation from him, I'm happy to be a part of his life and love that he knows who I am.

Noah lives a 2 hour drive away so I try and visit him at least once or twice a month. What I've noticed is how quickly children change. When Noah was born he looked just like his daddy. Now, he reminds me of his mommy, only in a different color. Noah has also grown like a weed this first year! He was so tiny when he was born such a short time ago. Now he's turning into a little boy before my eyes. He definitely knows who I am and has started calling me "G." His name for Ray is "Papa." Watching him run around my house gives me a good feeling. I thank God for every moment I have with this precious child He's entrusted to my daughter and her husband. Grandchildren are definitely a gift from God to be loved and appreciated.

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Back to Blogging

It's been a very long time since I've even looked at The Jade Page. Things in my life have been going very well and I'm feeling particularly blessed these days.

Noah, my grandson, has reached the ripe old age of (almost) 18 months. How can I describe the feeling I get when I see his little face, feel his hand in mine, or listen to his laughter? I can't...the miracle of Noah is beyond description. I've watched him grow from a very tiny infant to a curious toddler before my eyes. Candice has also transformed from a young wife into a loving, nurturing mother. Watching her take care of Noah has made me realize that the gamble I took when I quit my job after she was born was well worth it. She is really, really good at taking care of her son! One of the things that especially impressed me was the way she taught Noah how to "sign" so he can express himself a little better. As a result, Noah is growing confident and good at letting us know what he needs and wants.

Thomas is still in the Army and due to separate later this year. However, the job market in tough these days and he is a responsible husband and father. He will not leave the Army until he's confident that he can support his family. I'm praying that he will find something soon so they can stay close enough for me to see them.

My youngest son, David, graduated from high school on June 10! He's never done anything the easy way and high school graduation was no exception. After spending half the school year at the continuation school, making up unearned credits, he beat the odds and was able to return to his regular high school in January. From then on, he had to work hard to maintain his grades and earn his credits to graduate. In order to do this, he even had to join the chorus and sing! He finally got word Friday before graduation that he'd passed his classes and would be allowed to walk with his class. I promptly got on-line, ordered his cap and gown (paid $45 for expedited shipping too) and then began to pray it would arrive on time and that it would be the right shade of blue. Thank God, it was! We got ready and left to get the boys (David and Gabe, my foster son) to Azusa Pacific University at 4 p.m. After we parked the car and made our way to the auditorium, the emotions began to hit me. Once the music started, my tears came fast and plentiful. I thought about taking him to kindergarten for the first time, the loss of his father 2 weeks later, and all the years in between then and now. I hope my late husband, Dave, is watching from Heaven and is happy with the way I've raised the children. Anyway, David accomplished a task that was nearly impossible and he graduated from high school with his friends on time! I'm so very proud of him. Thanks, Lord for all your help!

Please keep praying for our troops. I hope to blog a little more often than I have recently. In the mean time, God bless everyone!