This post was written by Cindy Barnes an and our CMF Modern Grandma:
Hillary Clinton”s remark that it takes a village to raise a child was controversial when she said it. I can”t imagine why. What parent doesn”t ask for advice or help from a long list of family and friends? Or, when they”re not available, from other playgroup moms and bloggers? We all need some advice and help, some sense that we”re not crazy, or in this parenting thing all alone. Yup! It takes a village. My daughter Katie used part of her village a couple of weeks ago.
She and husband Jon took a much deserved, week long vacation. Jon”s parents came from Pittsburgh to stay with the boys. Jeanmarie and Dick have four other grown children and a bunch of grandchildren, so they know a thing or two about parenting. Still, I was worried. I love it when Graham and Will stay overnight with me; but by 9:00 a.m. the next morning, I”m worn out and waiting for the cavalry to save me. Even Katie would have complained if left alone with the boys for a week. (You know it”s true!) How were Jeanmarie and Dick going to manage www.atoledo.com for a week?! I told me them that I would be available if they needed me, and was pretty sure they would.
Grammy, Grampy, Will & Graham in May 2011 |
Ha! I now know I”m a total slacker! Those two managed to get Graham to pre-school, Will to swim lessons, both boys haircuts (imagine a screaming Will!), and both boys fed, bathed, and into bed without fuss. Oh, and they also calmly Online Gambling managed to get Graham to the emergency room with a 105 degree temperature without breaking a sweat. Graham and Will felt completely secure and loved, enjoying some perks like going to the park and out for bagels. Will adored Grampy, viewing him as a very comfortable Barca-lounger, perfect for reclining to watch a little TV. Of course, I did my very small part. Jeanmarie, Dick, and the boys came over for dinner a couple of times and we shared phone calls. The boys” nanny also stopped by to answer a few questions, but Jeanmarie and Dick managed ALONE.
So Jeanmarie and Dick, thank you from Jon, Katie, the boys, and your extended family for being members of our village. I am very grateful for, and humbled by, your generous and loving approach to life. You have raised my personal bar for grandparenting.
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