Let it Be and Just Breathe

 This is easier said than done. Mom’s spend their kiddo’s early days caring for them and meeting their every need. Then as they grow it is pretty clear that our job is to lean back and allow them to do more and more for themselves. But how is it possible when we see their choices as not as good as if we continue to decide for them. It is hard to let go of control and trust that even bad choices will lead to learning and growth. 

Their growing independence is challenging us to release the reins a little more with each new stage of their life. Trusting that others can live their own lives regardless of what we think they should choose is us continuously releasing them. 

Our grandchildren are twenty-one years old to twenty-one months old. There are ways we interact differently with each one of them because of their ages and also their personality. Our youngest, Mayve, is going to be two in May. She is the most self reliant little girl. She puts on her own boots, jacket and wants to buckle her own car seat. Her mom is needing to allow her to be independent quicker than she hoped. Her older brother is potty trained and Mayve is extremely interested in going potty on the toilet. Elissa wants to keep her a baby a bit longer.

 It is hard to transition from one phase to the other when we feel like we are not needed as much. But the truth is our kids need us in different ways. My adult children may not need me to wipe their noses (thank God) but they do call and ask Ron and I to babysit. Even though we live in New Mexico and two of our kid’s families live in Washington state, I went up twice to look after kiddos while the parents had a much deserved break. It is a pleasure to fly to and be with my grands. I hope they never stop asking. Oh wait, they are moving more to not needing a sitter all the time. But hopefully, they will pick up the phone and share what is happening in their lives. 

So let’s all enjoy where we are and where we are going. Ronnie B and I turn seventy this year. We are not as old as Susi but we are moving into a new decade of life. Our routines are not as packed full of activities and even include a nap now and then. But it is an exciting time that we are embracing and enjoying. Schedules allow for more time for road trips and breakfast with friends. Now if I can just live what this message says and trust others more. It is something I pray for daily. To give advice when asked not unsolicited. My job is to support and encourage and celebrate the way those I love are living their lives. After all, i am sure my parents scratched their heads at many of the choices I made throughout my life. 

In Him,

Joyful

3-4-26