SUMMER 2010 - a summary of the last year!

How did I let nearly a year go by without posting? I realize this blog is mostly for my own "enjoyment", but nevertheless, I wish I had been better about posting consistently.

I knew...but will still amazed...at how quickly and easily I would fall in love with grands. Elliott and Simon are such a joy...and I treasure the opportunities the kids have given me to be such an integral part of their everyday lives. It has been such a pleasure - a thrill! - to be involved in their daily care, watching them grow and develop, and tending to the Grammy/grandson relationship that is so dear.

While I only have positive words and thoughts surrounding both Barry and Beth, watching my son become such a dedicated father has filled me with even more love, pride, and awe. His involvement in the day to day care of the boys, his love, care, and concern for his lovely wife...and his engaging little boys, has been a exciting to watch. He fell in love quickly with those little guys - and my heart overflowed as he reminded me of the "how tos" of diapering, bathing, feeding etc. - skills he learned from those wonderful NICU nurses.

I think back on the myriad of feelings I recall having as a young (new) parent - how I felt helpless when I couldn't "fix" whatever was wrong - couldn't stop the crying...or couldn't seem to get it "right"...how I felt so utterly responsible to make sure that I was the "best" mom (and wife, and teacher, and....) when now I realize that just "being" was the best - to do what I could, with positive intention and love, to be a parent who loved, and lived and, most importantly, laughed and enjoyed my family. Regrets don't do much...so I don't want to waste time and energy on what I can't change..but I DO want to do whatever I can to encourage, support, and love these new young parents. From my point of view, they're pretty special people...who are providing the greatest start for their little guys!

And then my thoughts go on to my daughter...my amazing Erin...the one who has made her way through a number of challenges, and keeps on going. I'm just as proud of her accomplishments as I am her tenacity...and I know she'll reach whatever goals she sets. She's had quite a journey from the teen years to adult hood, and I'm proud to be her mom!

This summary of the year wouldn't be complete without my thoughts on my dear husband - the new Grampa! - with whom I'll soon celebrate 37 years of marriage. Although he's not able to be with Elliott and Simon nearly as much as he'd like - work and Scouts drive difficult calendars - they "drive" his questions and our conversations. I love seeing the twinkle whenever he talks about those two...he proudly carries his photo album full of the newest pictures...and I know he's looking forward to the day his schedule is less hectic and he can spend as much time with them as he'd like.

What's next? We'll see...I DO plan to post at least weekly...