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!
Read other Sunday Columns by clicking here and visiting Braley’s World.
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