By Jamie Rieger
Age is a state of mind, they say. You're only as old as you feel. Both statements are ones that I have related to quite nicely.
Then, earlier this year, my daughter broke the news that I am going to be a grandma. The word 'grandma' in itself is indicative of being 'up there' on the age scale. (And, my recent birthday has had something to do with it, too!)
This past weekend, a baby shower was held for the wee one and her mama, who is due on Jan. 1. Seeing my daughter very pregnant, unwrapping her gifts, and surrounded by friends and family did not make me feel as an old granny, but rather one who feels fortunate to still have the health and energy to be able to keep up with my little grand-baby once she learns how to walk. Seeing Carmen sitting there beside me made me feel proud that she has grown into the responsible young lady she is.
Some of her friends that were at the shower I have known since their Kindergarten days, and one girl, I have known since she was in diapers. Stories of their growing up days were told, the fun they had together and the mischief they got themselves into. Yes, you really can laugh about some of those moments years later, even if they were the cause of a few gray hairs when they happened.
A few of Carmen's friends are also expectant mothers and due about the same time as she is. Hm, I wonder if the harsh winter and spring we experienced earlier this year has had anything to do with it.
Carmen's pregnancy and my soon-to-come grandma-hood has not at all made me feel old, or even my age some days. Rather, it has rejuvenated me a bit, caused me to be reflective, has given me something very special to look forward to, and still be able to provide my daughter with some guidance as she becomes a new mom.
I get to look forward to doing all the things a grandma does with their grandchild; spending weekends together, going to the park, baking cookies, babysitting, and of course, going shopping. Grandmas can cuddle, read stories, and sing lull-a-byes like nobody else and I can't wait for being able to share those precious moments with my granddaughter.
When Carmen goes into labour, she wants me to be there with her and the new daddy, so I have sent the notice out to Mother Nature to be kind this winter at least until after the baby makes her arrival. When I get that phone call to get to the hospital, I will be gone like a shot. So, I will want the highway to be free of snow and ice. This will be one determined grandmother when that moment arrives.