All About Being An LDS Grandparent and Staying Connected To Your Grandchildren… Eternally!

The Smell of Lilacs Remind Me of my of grandmother...

Being a MOTHER is wonderful, because for many of us – it eventually makes us GRANDMOTHERS!  And for THAT, I want to take this opportunity  to wish my three beautiful daughters –  a very HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!  I also want to let them know, that by their making me the happiest mother EVER and giving me such lovely grandchildren — I have forgotten EVERYTHING crazy they did, prior to their giving birth!

They should feel grateful that this redemption, did not cost them their first born!   But, come to think of it — that is one devious way to get to spend more time with my grandkids.  Oh heck, why rush it?  Soon enough, they will be begging me to come pick them up, so that they don’t kill one of them!   Awwwww —- wonderful blissful  motherhood…

I’m going to brag right now.   I hope you don’t mind, too much.  Indulge me, just for this one post, because I just need to say a few things about my daughters.    They are such sweet mothers, and it is a privilege to observe each one of them as they  mother their own little ones.    I’m not saying they are  perfect – because as we all know, there is no such thing as the perfect mother — at least not in this life.   However, there ARE perfect grandchildren, of which I have NINE!   I bet you have a few, too.

What touches my heart, as their mother, and in particular as an LDS GrandParent, is seeing how they are teaching my grandchildren the principles of the gospel, in their homes.   I love to hear my grandchildren pray,  read the scripture and sing those heavenly primary songs that teach eternal truths.   It is a joy to see  these young children as they develop their own testimonies of Jesus Christ.   Children are naturally blessed with faith.  It is the wise mother that understands this and nurtures this growth from the time their children are very young.  I see this wisdom, in each of my daughters, as mothers.  Truly, nothing could make an LDS GrandParent more grateful than to see their grandchildren learn to exercise faith in the Lord.

Over on Hubpages, I published an article where I shared some of my feelings about being a mother  myself — along side of some beautiful quotes about the sacred calling of mothers, by LDS Leaders.

“Mother is not only a teacher, but even more – she herself, becomes the humblest of student. Mothers often are found – to be kneeling – at the very feet of a wise Father, who is in Heaven.

I will eternally be indebted to the leaders of the LDS Church, who have taught well – the sacred nature and responsibility of the role of motherhood. Through deeper understanding of the Plan of Salvation and the importance of the role of women in that plan – I now know, just how important my life’s work has been, and will continue to be – through the gift to all women, of – motherhood.” Kathryn Skaggs

From the perspective of an LDS Grandmother,  this quote is one of my  favorite….

President Gordon B. Hinckley on motherhood:

“Most of you are mothers, and very many of you are grandmothers and even great-grandmothers. You have walked the sometimes painful, sometimes joyous path of parenthood. You have walked hand in hand with God in the great process of bringing children into the world that they might experience this estate along the road of immortality and eternal life. It has not been easy rearing a family. Most of you have had to sacrifice and skimp and labor night and day. As I think of you and your circumstances, I think of the words of Anne Campbell, who wrote as she looked upon her children:

You are the trip I did not take;

You are the pearls I cannot buy;

You are my blue Italian lake;

You are my piece of foreign sky.

(“To My Child,” quoted in Charles L. Wallis, ed., The Treasure Chest [1965], 54)

You [mothers] are the real builders of the nation wherever you live, for you have created homes of strength and peace and security. These become the very sinew of any nation.” Gordon B. Hinckley, “Women of the Church,” Ensign, Nov 1996, 67

You can read the entire post on Hubpages -  “Motherhood – Inspirational Quotes By LDS Leaders”

THANK YOU MOTHERS – FOR TEACHING OUR GRANDCHILDREN

To All Of The Daughters of Eve – Happy Mother’s Day!

tDMg,

MOM

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Helping Out With Sick Grandchildren

Every good grandparent at one time or another, is needed to help out with sick grandchildren.  The latest health concern that could affect not only ourselves, but also our grandchildren – is the recent outbreak of swine flu.   It seems like everywhere you turn, we are being barraged with information about swine flu.  Border states seem to be on highest alert.  Nevertheless — the uncertainty of this particular strain of influenza has many grandparents quite concerned.

As of right now, we really don’t know where this thing is going to go.  Schools are closing in some areas — and speculation about other types of businesses briefly closing their doors, to contain the spreading of the swine flu – are looming.  If these things happen in your area – and you need to help out with tending grandchildren — what should you know?

Over at grandparents.com – they decided to ask an expert.  They have covered what grandparents should know about the swine flu – to keep their grandchildren safe and healthy.  I thought this was important enough to share with my readers.

Answers to these questions:

How does the swine flu spread, and how can we protect ourselves and our grandchildren from possible infection?

Is it safe to take grandchildren to the supermarket, to play dates, and to public parks?

What possible changes would public-health authorities recommend?

Should families prepare for such measures?

If grandparents are able to babysit for the grandchildren, should they offer to do so in lieu of sending the kids to daycare?

How long does it take for swine flu to incubate in a person?

What are the signs of swine flu that we should be alert to?

How can we tell the difference between swine flu symptoms and those of the common cold?

How should families prepare in case their children get infected?

Will wearing a face mask help protect us from swine flu?

How long will it be before we know how badly the global community will be affected by swine flu?

Make sure and head on over to grandparent.com and read the excellent advice and information that is available for helping us take care of ourselves and families – during this recent health concern.

tDMg

LdsNana

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Welcome To The World, Parker

I just returned from Georgia, after spending a week getting to know my newest grandchild.  He’s beautiful.  He reminds me of his big sister, Skylee, when she was born.  He has many of the same newborn quirks as Skylee did, which makes us all laugh.   Parker definitely belongs to the Allen family.  I think he knows it, too.  He fits in perfect!

Parker Robert Allen, bears his Papa’s first name, as his middle name.  So does his cousin, who was born only a few days before him, Seth Robert Paul. As you can imagine, Papa is quite honored, to say the least.  I must say, that these two grandsons will always have someone to look up to, and emulate as they go forward throughout their lives.  Someone who is worthy of emulation.

I can’t believe that after all of the anticipation for the births of these two latest grandsons, that we are now, on the other side.  They are both here, and healthy.  What a blessing!  Moms are recovering and adjusting to their newest additions.  Nana is finally home, and needing a vacation! LOL

The full responsibilities of motherhood, are for the young — I’m certain of that.  Although, I know that many grandparents today, are actually fulfilling the role of parents to their grandchildren, for various reason.  I salute you!

After my husband picked me up from the airport last night, I shared with him how grateful I am, that I have been able to help my daughters, after the birth of each of our grandchildren.  It has been a privilege for me, as well as a beautiful blessing.  I love watching each one of my daughters, as they truly fall in love with their children.  Of course, I am right there with them, and perhaps that is why I see it so clearly.  It is probably one of the most beautiful experiences that we as grandparents witness in our lives.  Love is a powerful motivator, for what parents willingly endure and sacrifice in this life, for their children.  It’s hard to imagine what we as parents would not do for our children.  I know that I’ve said this before, but LDS GrandParenting - is a profound glimpse into eternal love.

And to think, that it is going to get better, and richer and deeper – than anything that we can imagine in this life!

tDMg

LdsNana

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Nana Meets Seth At The Hospital

I can’t believe that it has been two weeks today – since my 8th grandson, Seth Robert Paul, was born; and that I haven’t blogged about it YET!  That’s not to say that I haven’t been active on both Facebook and Twitter, etc…   I’ve twittered and text about it, as well as kept my Facebook status very current on what has been going on.  That’s pretty easy.  Sitting down to blog takes a little more time, and until today — a commodity that was on short supply for this Nana.

Since my last post about this wonderful event “A Nana In Waiting” - soooo much has happened.  As expected, Seth was born that very evening – weighing in at a whopping  6lbs 13oz -  Perfect in every way!  The next afternoon, my son-in-law escorted myself and three grandchildren to the hospital for a very happy visit, to meet their new little brother, Seth.  Needless to say, they were thrilled with this new tiny bundle of joy.  The expressions on each of their faces as they held Seth for the first time, were priceless.  I too, was completely overwhelmed and found myself immediately teary-eyed, upon gazing and holding him for the first time.  (pictured above)

As planned, I took over the mommy duties while in Texas.  I awoke children very early in the morning, to get them fed and dressed.  Taxied them to school, pre-school, ballet and soccer.  Assisted with homework.  Washed hair and brushed teeth.  Read books.  Cooked dinner.  Did laundry.   And oh — how it brought back memories!   Young mothers are kept so busy with the physical aspect of caring for their children.  It is a good busy, but can be very exhausting!

Grandchildren - Ethan, Elenna and Eleise

Last Thursday, after almost two weeks, I returned home to California.  I’m missing them already.   I’m home right now, for a much needed rest, and will head to Georgia on Wednesday.  As many of you are well aware, I had two daughters, expecting babies about a week apart.  As things went, these two grandsons ended up being born with only two days in between.  You can imagine all the excitement of waiting for two babies to be born, within one week!

Today, I’m feeling well rested – after a lovely Easter weekend.  I’m looking really forward to traveling to Georgia, to meet my other new grandson, Parker.  I will of course, blog about him, too!

Being an LDS GrandParent, is really the best part of life!  It is joy undescribable to see your own children become parents themselves.  It is difficult to express the deep love that is felt, for these beautiful grandchildren that become the “next” generation.  It is comforting to behold what excellent hands that they have been placed within.

LDS GrandParenting is truly a glimpse into Eternity — and so far,  I’m loving what I see!

tDMg

LdsNana

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The Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ

Here is a really FUN SONG to help your grandchildren memorized the names of the LDS Apostles! When I was a Seminary teacher a few years back, we used this song to help our students learn the names of the current Mormon prophets — particularly around LDS General Conference time. As life goes, there are changes to the  Apostles – and this song is often updated when need be — this is the newest version of the LDS Apostles Song – adding in most recently, Elder Neil L. Andersen.

I also love that an interesting fact about each Apostle is worked into the song, to help us learn a little bit more about our beloved leaders – other than just their names.  This information could also lead to some interesting conversations about each of these humble men, and the lives that they have lived.  There is so much that we can learn from these great prophets of God.

tDMg

LdsNana

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Happiness is grandchildren...

Today, I am going to be a grandmother, for the eighth time.  It’s inevitable.  My daughter and her husband left this morning at 6:00 am, for the hospital.  Her doctor scheduled an induction.  As of right now, there is no turning back –  Seth Robert Paul will be born on March 30, 2009.  The only thing about this birth that we still do not know for a fact, is what time this will actually occur, and how much Seth will weigh.  I have no doubt that he will look like a carbon copy of his older brother, Ethan.  He will be a beautiful strawberry blond.  His skin will be very fair.  He will be exquisite!

I’m here in Texas, to help out with the three younger children.  Today, so far so good.  I got up on time, and took Ethan to school.  A one hour drive, round-trip.  I will leave to pick him up after school, in just a few minutes.  I also was successful in getting Elenna and Eleise to preschool; hair curled, and on time.  It was picture day!  I was given specific instructions of how the girls should be dressed and their hair done. I think I did pretty good.  LOL

Be right back…

Okay, so I’m back from getting Ethan from school.  Time to do homework and begin dinner.  Still no Seth. Steven and I, (Seth’s dad) have been communicating via text – a bit – back and forth.   Apparently, Jennette’s epidural is doing its job — but we are still waiting patiently.  I have reported to the grandchildren (Seth’s siblings) that he will be born before they go to bed.  (crossing my fingers – tight:-)  I am exercising great faith, as I have been informed that the doctor has pulled out all the stops on this birth – they have done all that they can (naturally) and now it is up to Jennette and Seth.  As I said, it is inevitable that Seth must be born, TODAY!

Last night, after the children were tucked in bed, Jennette came into my room, where I was reading.  She told me that Steven was going to give her a priesthood blessing, and asked if I would like to be there.  I had been hoping all day, that this had taken place for my daughter.  I felt honored to be included for something that I consider to be sacred.   After the blessing concluded, we all hugged.

As much as we have confidence that everything will happen as planned, and as expected – there is always the sure knowledge, that when a mother gives birth, she is making a great sacrifice.  Life is fragile.  As a mother, it is a delicate time, knowing that these things are out of our hands.  Truly, it is our faith in the Lord and his mercy, that our daughters will prevail though childbirth.

And so, as tender feelings of gratitude, faith and joy collide – I continue to wait upon the Lord.   To be continued…

tDMg

LdsNana

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GrandParenting is GRAND!

A good friend recently pointed out to me, that an expert is someone with experience.  That reality, struck a chord with this LDS Grandparent!  Since I’m always thinking about, and writing about being an LDS GrandParent these day, and being reminded of this fact – I realized that grandparents are really EXPERT PARENTS…  and that is exactly what makes us so GRAND!

Think about it? How many years were you, or have you been a first generation parent.  For me, my oldest will turn 30 in May.  My youngest is a senior in high school.  That means, that I have been in practice now, for nearly 30 years, and counting!  Now, you tell me if all these years of experience, does not make me, an “expert parent”?  You can’t!

Every parent, has the potential to someday, be GRAND!  If things go well, you can even be GRAND and GREAT!  And, if things go really really well, we can become GLORIOUS!

The cycle of life, is so beautiful.   Each one of us begin as completely inexperienced parents, with the arrival of our first baby.  Most of what we know about being a parent, will come from how we were parented ourselves.  So in essence,  we already have the potential right then and there, to be grand.  Every step of progression in this life, is based on previous experience – whether we are conscious of this or not.  Our responsibility as children of God, is to take whatever our experiences have been, learn from them — and be better!

EVERY GENERATION BETTER!

I have always taught my own children, that I expect them to be  better parents to their own children, that I was to them.  Mind you, I am not putting myself down.  I believe that this is how we grow.  I have always hoped, that I took from my own childhood of being “parented” – and tried with even greater diligence, to be the best parent that I knew how to be, to my own children.

As LDS GrandParents, we are so blessed to have the teachings of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, in our lives.  We are so blessed to have had years of experience in learning how to apply these principles of the gospel, to the raising of our children.   I can’t tell you how many times over the years, that I tried to parent without applying the teachings of Jesus Christ.  I didn’t realize it, but I was trying to do things, in ways that I thought best.  It took some failures as a parent, to more fully understand the power of parenting, through the principles of the gospel.

One of the most beautiful principles of parenting, that I have come to understand and love, is that of individual agency.  Learning to trust in this eternal principle, as the means by which our children and grandchildren will progress — has truly been GRAND!

To be GRAND, is to have learned through our own experiences, to do that which is good.  To be an LDS Grand-Parent, is to have come to a place,  ready to become even more like our Heavenly Father…

tDMg

LdsNana

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