Passing Down Christmas Traditions

My grandson had his first Christmas last year (2006), came over to my house, had lots of fun opening presents, watching the lights. This year will one that he'll remember, and my son and his wife decided it would be great to stay home and start their own family traditions. So I had a great talk with my daughter-in-law as she asked me about the traditions her husband remembered best.

I think his favorite was Christmas Eve. We'd have like a fiesta, enchiladas, taco's etc Some years we'd have a pinata. Then we'd gather around the Christmas tree and read the Christmas story from the Bible, have a song or two. Somehow they started the tradition of opening one present that night, and they haven't wanted to stop. Then they play games till we told them get some sleep!

Updated 11/27/18

Out At the Mall Hanging Out

Yesterday I decided to take my 14-month old grandson to the Mall. What a treat it was for both of us! Instead of pushing him around in his stroller, I decided to give him the same experience his mom and I have when we go together---walking and window shopping.

What a treat it was for EVERYBODY! Just like my daughter was when she was little, my grandson is a showstopper...a real entertainer...and he performed brilliantly for anyone who was willing to stop, watch and listen.

All anyone had to do was smile at him and that was his cue to clap his hands, do a little dance and belt out his version of Whatever! A few times he got a little out of control and grandma had to be mean---but it was all of the spirit of love and no-no.

He took his first trip on the escalator and he loved it. He enjoyed it so much that he cried when he tried to get me to go back up again and I wouldn't. He was also fascinated by the mannequins but didn't dare touch them. I don't think his little mind could process exactly why a life-like figure would just be standing in the middle of a department store and doing absolutely nothing. (Sounds like some teenagers I know).

Just before leaving the mall, my grandson decided he wanted to crawl under one of the tables in the men's department and play a game of "catch me if you can." He quickly discovered grandma wasn't in the mood, which made him cry again. His tears caught the attention of a stranger who wanted to console him. She asked for a hug and after a moment, my grandson reached out to her. Then he put out that great big smile and all was well again.

The whole mall experience was a video camera moment but, of course, I didn't have one. But the memory of hanging out at the mall with my grandson will live in my heart forever!

Originally posted 11/2007 by Beverly Mahone

Updated 11/27/18

First Grandbaby

When my son told me they were expecting, I had no doubt he'd be a great dad. But was I ready to be a grandmother? Sounds old doesn't it?

My youngest was 9 at the time and still denies being an aunt. Old is a state of mind, It doesn't matter your age or if your body starts to fall apart. What matters is living in the moment, enjoying life, fulfilling your purpose, living your dreams.

Grandkids are a gift, to help us stay young. Look at Jack snuggling up with his mom, such contentment. I just couldn't resist taking the picture and sending it out on a card. 

Grandkids are a joy!

Guest post by Heidi Caswell

Updated 11/28/18

What Is a Grandmother?

Being a grandmother means many things to me. But all rolled up into one meaning is having these marvelous little people in my life to teach, mold, and love.

And, best of all, to be loved in return.

To be blessed with a knowing of who they come from and what their belief system is and will be through-out their life. To have the honor of taking part in the shaping of little minds that will develop into strong and focused minds. Minds that will will go forth with ideas and what our family's have stood for through generations.

To keep the family traditions alive and meaningful.

What a marvelous place to find myself!

Guest Post by Bea Kunz
Happy Grandmother of 3 boys

http://www.sagehillfarmsandvintagestore.com

Updated 11/27/18