GRAND Joy from GRANDbabies

On a recent visit to see my grown kids and their families, one of my grandbaby girls greeted me with her raised little arms for a squeeze and heartwarming giggles. My grandbaby son laid his head on my shoulder and hugged me unexpectedly. There were squeals and lots of hugs. -Family is my happy place.

During our time together, I had individual time with each of our grands—which was intentional and sweet. With one grandchild, there was an afternoon at the park; with another, we went out for dinner and ice cream. With my oldest grandson, we played a basketball game. My youngest grandson and I went for a long walk (with the added gift of Mom joining). Lastly, we had a quick trip to historic Williamsburg, VA, with my daughter and her oldest. It was a GRAND joy given by my GRANDkids and adult children. :)

It was GRAND joy given by my GRANDkids.

(This pic is actually in my home from another visit- but isn't he sooooo adorable?)

My thoughts travel from the priceless moments of my grands to the joy they bring into my life. Grandchildren are truly grand! I love being a playmate to my granddaughters and grandsons, who typically soak in the moment. I want to be a Mimi who gives a safe place packed with fun and unconditional love because of the following reasons:

1. Children (grandchildren) are a gift from the Lord. They are a reward from Him. Psalm 127:3 (NLT) reads, "Children are a gift from the Lord. They are a reward." Let's remind our grandchildren that they are a priceless gift. Tell them that it is a joy to be their Mimi!

   
   
   
   

2. Grandchildren are fearfully and wonderfully made. (Psalm 13-14) It is important to tell your granddaughters and grandsons that God has created them and they are made in His image. Explain that they are beautifully designed for good works. Help them understand themselves as God sees them. I fear our children and grandkids will hear many voices in their heads from this world that will bully their self-esteem. Therefore, we must share the message with our children and grandchildren that they are fearfully and wonderfully created for a beautiful life. Psalm 139:13-16 reads, "You made all the delicate inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex. Your workmanship is marvelous - how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed."

   
   

3. Our words matter to our children and grandchildren. Our words can build them up, but our words can tear them down. Proverbs 18:21a reads, "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." For example, my Granny's words mattered to me in my formative years. She made me feel strong, and her positive encouragement made me a better person. Her words and thoughts mattered. Plus, I truly believe she thought I could do no wrong, which made me love her even more - haha! Honestly, every child needs someone to believe in them no matter what.

Today, I want to challenge you and me to be the grandparents who enjoy the wonderful blessings God has given us through the gift of our grandchildren. Remember-they are fearfully and wonderfully made. Tell them again and again. Let them know how special and extraordinary they are. Love them unconditionally—just like Christ loves us.