Since my daughter and my grandson live in another state, about two months had passed since I had seen them. During that time several things happened to us both. He turned 12 and a huge difference took place.  He was like a young man instead of the young boy he had been.  No more ME, ME attitude.  No more I "don't want to do it"  to "sure I'll be happy to help."  No more arguments, no more tantrums.  He had grown up so much in the weeks that we had been apart I  found it hard to believe.  He had also been at a sleepaway camp for about a month - the first time ever.  He was going into middle school in a couple of weeks after going home.  During the time that I didn't see him I had some extensive back surgery which left me a little infirmed.   He was very helpful and caring and did almost all I asked him do with no argument or pouting.  (No, he didn't do everything - after all he's only 12).  We had a wonderful time together.  Maybe we both grew up a little bit while we were apart.  Maybe we both took another look at what was really important.  Whatever happened was just wonderful and I hope he looks forward to our next visit as much as I do.  I've always loved him because he was my grandson.  Now I love him AND like him for the young man he has become. 

Stan Emas

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You might think letting it go was my idea.  It wasn't, it was a statement my four year old grandson made yesterday, while he was visiting me for an overnight adventure.

We were driving and talking about an incident we'd had with another child and Noah very seriously said Grandma, you have to let it go.  I thought I'd drive off the road.  How could a child, teach his grandmother when to let it go?  The specific incident we were discussing was nothing. However, the message incredible.

Has there been times,  you can't forget or let go?

I know I own a few times, and in that moment, in the blink of the little guys brown eyes, I knew it was time for me to let some things go.
 Sometimes, it's a fight you had with a friend.  You can't even remember what was said.  Or in reality, secretly who was at fault.  You do know there is a rift in your  relationship, and wonder is it worth it?  (probably not) There could be a big issue with someone in the family.  This causing grave hard feelings, and if it's a brother or sister, mother or father,  pride can make it very difficult to mend. 

The person who is able to pick up the phone and ask to talk and try to mend the fence could  end of up feeling pretty good if both parties want to reconcile.  If they don't, then you let go and move on. That can be the hardest thing to do.  However, allowing it to fester can be worse.

My four year old grandson, got me wondering how long before I could do it.  I did it today.  I thought I might challenge you to the same.  After all, we live by experience..and what we share from others.  Wait a minute what could that little blessed four year old know that we don't.

Regards, Dorothy at grammology
http://grammology.com

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Today I went to the movies with my two granddaughters Kala 19, Mary 18, and Miles 21, who created and maintains our blog design etc.  After the movie we went to Dave and Busters for dinner.  All three of the kids, had seen the movie, and just wanted to be with grandma.  Sweet Mary fell asleep, and Kala seemed to enjoy seeing it over  while Miles dutifully helped me understand what pertained to the previous movies,  as this was my first Harry Potter experience.
The movie was okay, I was there to see it and perhaps understand who Harry Potter is.  Evident was the fact that Harry was a young man and not long for the world because of his age.  It did help to see the movie, I'm pleased that the book is always read at bedtime for my two younger grandchildren..by their mom.  This reading time, taught them to listen and become more aware of imagination. 
My granddaughters, just love the ceremony of grandma taking them out to do something.  Spending time catching up on their world, and utterly relaxing and enjoying each other's company. 
When a movie, can bring different generations together, and later to talk to each other.  There appears to be something special going on.  Embrace the opportunity to take time with your children, grandchildren or families kids if they have no one to go to the movies with.  
I felt wonderful at the end of the time with the kids. When the girls left my house they called to say; "I love you gram, and thank you for taking me out tonight"  so silly when I was  thanking  God, for giving me that time today.
 Just do it..call your grandchildren, and  ask to do something with them...you'll be glad you did..

Regards, Dorothy
http://grammology.com

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When I was growing up, my parents were always there for me to talk with, to offer support and advice, to drive me to classes and activities! My dad, especially, became one of my best friends and role models as I became a young adult. My mom has always been encouraging and has a great heart and optimistic outlook. Now they are both having a bit of a rough time -- my mom is undergoing radiation and my dad just had back surgery. So now it is my turn to "love up."  I've always loved them, of course, but now it about helping to care for them, too. They are both doing very well, thank G-d, but my mom is really tired. I am trying to get her some help but I don't think she sees that she needs to take care of herself before she runs herself to the ground. I don't want to make her more upset ... I don't want to "scold" her, but she has lost some weight and she doesn't see that "just cleaning one more room" is not worth it. I live far away and I am planning to go down again to help with some of the chores -- any suggestions on how to balance wanting to help with making sure I don't offend her?

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