WELCOME TO THE VIRTUAL HOME OF BRONSON L. PARKER. A native of Tennessee, "Bo" is a former journalist and writer of historical non-fiction. His creative writing career began after retirement from his day job as an appointed public servant in his adopted town of Hampton, VA. "It isn't a gipe site," he says. "If I enjoy something I read, or learn something about the writing game that I think is worthwhile, I'll have a few comments to make. His goal is to make it a fun site, both to write and, hopfully, to read.

Friday, June 11, 2010

What Makes Grandkids So Special?

No grandparent will say they love their grandkids more than their own children, but there is a feeling present that was not felt as a parent. I’ve been chewing on that since spending the weekend with granddaughter Kate, age two and a half, and Owen, age six and a half months.



I think I have figured it out. As parents, we never have the opportunity to simply sit down and give our minds totally to watching and enjoying our children. A part of a parent’s brain is always on alert, is always thinking and planning for the children’s needs, even when they are asleep.



As I watched my son and daughter-in-law, both of whom are employed full-time, constantly devote their time during the weekend to their children’s needs, I realized that grandpa could simply sit back, watch, and do nothing but enjoy the company of two great kids.

Yep, I think I am getting the hang of being a grandfather.

3 comments:

South Jersey Quilter said...

With grandchildren, we get to enjoy them without worrying about the day to day issues, and without worrying about how they'll turn out. We get the fun part!

Holly, grammy of 2

Vicki Lane said...

That's it exactly, Bo! I don't have grandchildren but was lucky enough to be a much doted on grandchild -- my maternal grandparents were the most wonderful people I ever knew.

bo parker said...

Holly, part of my "mental chewing" was about how the grandkids would turn out. I then realized that at my age, it wasn't something to worry about because I would not be around to see it, good or bad.

Vicki, I'm beginning to see things from the perspective you mentioned. When I walk in the door my granddaughter lights up with a look that says,"Here comes Grandpa Bo. All fun, no rules!"