I guess it wouldn't surprise anyone to know that raising a child when you are OLD can be difficult. Racing to the corner doesn't work all that well. Sitting on the floor while developing lego creations is hard--particularly the getting up part. Disneyland borders the impossible. The energy level is just different than it was at 30 or 40 or 50 or ..... Sometimes you wonder if he is being cheated.
But then--bedtime comes and he wants to share snuggles with Fluffy and Nike as stories are told and nonsense songs are sung. Even at 10, arms enfold and giving and getting hugs takes over. Then you know that you are his security and peace. He doesn't feel cheated.
You realize that a child's love comes not because someone is old or young. It comes because the love that surrounds him tells him that he is real, that he is important and, above all, that he is valued simply for who he is.
The pay back is that final kiss and hug just before you say goodnight and leave the room--and then the whispered I love you, gramma.
So--after all--it really isn't all that hard raising a child when you are OLD. It is just very special.
13 comments:
So well said. Casey will always cherish the life he had growing up with you as his parents-you're right-age doesn't really matter.
Jane, what a beautiful post. I, too, think that Casey will always cherish the life/love he had growing up with you as his parents!
Sheri
Janie and Sheri, thanks for your words and affirmation. They mean a lot and are encouraging to us as we go down this strange road.
Jane, You are such a loving and warm Grandmother for Casey. Those things your write about, the bedtime, end of the day quiet times are things I miss now that our nest is empty. I envy you for having young arms that hold you tight and say I love you. You and Casey are equally fortunate to have each other. What a special time. Thanks for sharing.
What a beautiful post, Jane! You are both lucky to have each other and you are raising Casey to be a wonderful kid, smart, fun, curious, and with great character.
Barb and Chiocciola, thanks for the nice words and Chiocciola your comment about Casey having great character really touched me. Thanks.
Casey is truly blessed! What a lucky young man to have you as his parents! I have been reading your blog since you were in Italy. I enjoy it very much...you and your husband are remarkable people.
Sandy
Sandy, what a nice comment you have made and it warms me. Are you a Sandy that I know or an entire new friend? Thanks for reading the blog for so very long!
What a lovely post, Jane. You remind me of the Velveteen Rabbit :)
Maryann..thank you and you have given me a new post. Nike that I mention in this post is Casey's Velveteen Rabbit--totally. Every bit as worn and loved and real. Watch for him.
"special", dear Jane, is what YOU are!! Bless you and the beautiful family you have created!
love from Laurie in Torino
Laurie, you gave me tears. Grazie Mille. Maybe we can see you again this summer; although, I doubt we will get up your way but maybe.......
What a beautiful post... it makes me want to give someone a hug =)
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