The Braley Blog

“Pete’s Daily Connection”

What Liam Has Taught Me

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January 2020 – Arrival


It’s been almost a year since I came to Virginia Beach to provide daycare for my grandson Liam. It wasn’t supposed to be this long and I’ll still be here for three more months but that was because of that global pandemic thing.

If you don’t know, this all began when my daughter started to research daycare costs (Yikes!) and also wasn’t comfortable handing her 4-month old off to a stranger. When I heard this I said, “I could do it.” I was originally planning to return to Fairhaven this past September but then Corona came and the Navy base daycare wasn’t taking any new children. We’re scheduled now for February but once I told my wife I’d be coming home in March she reminded me that I’ve never really cared for March weather in New England sooooo I’ll see you in April. Here’s a glimpse at a March forecast.

I was thinking…..

I was thinking this week about how I’ve been teaching him those little things like right from wrong, don’t hit the doggie with your toys and please stop hiding daddy’s keys.

Then I thought about all the things he’s taught me.

What Liam has taught me

Live in the moment. What matters most is what we’re doing right now. Don’t waste your time worrying about anything else.

Be willing to adjust. Translation: “Read the room.” If you wake up cranky, just relax a little and ease into the day. Hungry? Eat a little even if it’s not mealtime.

Sometimes you just need a nap. Tired? Sleep! We adults don’t always get enough sleep. Sure some struggle with insomnia or other issues but how many of us stay up too late? Spend too much time on social media?

Sometimes you just need a hug. There’s nothing like a warm hug from someone you care about or someone who cares for you.

It’s fun to laugh. Go ahead! It’s scientifically proven to make you feel better and there’s nothing like hearing a 1-year old who is cracking up over something.

It’s fun to go outside. Isn’t it? Fresh air and the warm sunshine on your face? Sometimes you can lose track of how long we’ve been outside. You’re just having fun, what’s the rush? Whatever else you have to do will still be there later.

I just like being with you

I like just having you around. Sometimes it’s just nice to hangout with a friend. You don’t even have to necessarily have any set plans, just being together is nice.

I don’t see what’s so special with these phones. He is ALWAYS trying to get my phone or his mommy’s phone. I think it’s because he sees us always on them and wants to figure out what’s so important about these things. Suggestion? Put the phone down and enjoy each other’s company.

I have three more months to spend every day with him. I’ll still visit every month or so with Grammy but it is time for him to venture out and meet some kids his own age.

Hopefully somebody shows him this when he’s older and can understand how much I’ve appreciated our time together. I titled our weekly blog “Raising Grampy” as a joke but he really has taught me a lot. I hope I take these lessons back home with me. They were things I already knew but somehow, in this crazy world of “adulthood”, I needed a reminder.

Thanks buddy!


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9 responses to “What Liam Has Taught Me”

  1. Jim Phillips Avatar

    It’s been a wonderful experience for you, Liam, and for us, the readers. Thank you!

  2. Yvette+Gracie Avatar
    Yvette+Gracie

    I think this is a big win/win for both of you. I never had grandparents around when I was little. He will have wonderful memories that he doesn’t even realize are important now but, when he is raising his own little one, all those memories of “you two” time will come flooding back to him. And, it you the time to share all those simple things your babies did while you were at work. See, truly a WIN/WIN!!!

  3. Patricia+L.+Jason Avatar

    Another article for this little guys memory book, and yours as well Pete. This one is by far the most heartwarming and loving one yet.

  4. Patricia+L.+Jason Avatar

    Another article for his memory book-and yours as well Pete. This is the most heartwarming and loving one so far.

  5. Russell Chamberlain Avatar
    Russell Chamberlain

    The time will go fast so enjoy it Pete. It has been wonderful to have you such a part of his life and I am sure he will miss raising grampy but to be honest you have been missed in Fairhaven and they will be glad you are back.

  6. Carole mahaney Avatar
    Carole mahaney

    Yup! I needed this today Pete ! Liam has been blessed having you care for him and you have been blessed with his love for you . Kept those monthly visits…… Grandchildren seem to grow faster than our own. I feel that 😉

    1. Dorothy Koczera Avatar
      Dorothy Koczera

      So true !!

  7. Peg Britton Avatar
    Peg Britton

    Glad to know we will still have more time with Grampy and Liam weekly adventures :>)

  8. Dorothy Koczera Avatar
    Dorothy Koczera

    Very sweet .Make LIAM a book with all the beautiful articles so he can have them all .When he gets to be a teenager ,he will be able to read them all and know what a lucky boy he was to have grandpy in his life.

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