My Dad is a serious Grandpa. Not in the sense that he is serious with the kids, but that he is serious about his job of being Grandpa. Every grandparent is different, and each one brings something very unique and special to the relationship. My dad brings adventure, laughter, connection, and special attention.
I had hoped that the week we spent at the beach with my family would also be a time for Jordan to get a break and an opportunity to hang out with us. However, being the rookie in your job doesn't offer many opportunities for that, and we are trying to save our days off for when the baby comes. So, that left me with Silas, Jewel and 36 weeks of pregnancy to deal with.
Thankfully, Grandpa was there. The day we spent on the shore was busy. Seven grandchildren with lots of water, sand, and no visual boundaries. Jewel is not intimidated by surroundings, and she takes constant supervision. I followed after her for a while, but what she really needed was a partner in crime. So, my dad happily took her hand and let her lead him where all the big kids were headed. Across the logs, through the water, over the big rocks, out to the ocean... I find myself starting to roll my eyes and wanting her to pick an activity that keeps us stationary for longer than 12 seconds. My dad not only led her back and forth across wobbly logs, scooped her up when she fell in, chased her across the sand, and threw rocks with her, but the whole time he marveled at how well she got around and commented that she may one day be an athlete. He laughed in amazement as she attempted activities far beyond her skill level. He gently redirected her as she headed to destroy the sand castle or project of yet another unsuspecting cousin.
No comments:
Post a Comment