On the eve of welcoming my second grandchild, I’m a myriad of emotions; apprehensive, worried and nervous for my daughter’s wellbeing and in equal measure, full of excitement, joy and happiness to welcome my new Granddaughter into this world. As I sit pondering my emotions this causes me to reflect on the journey I’ve been through and the lessons I’ve learned over the last 4 years, since my exciting adventure into Grandparenthood began. Little did I know how much I would change along the way.
Becoming a grandmother for the first time was a profound and transformative experience. Having raised 3 children, to adulthood, with all the tests, trials and tribulations that throws at you (teenage years in particular), I thought I had seen it all, but nothing quite prepared me for the unique joy and responsibility that comes with being a grandparent. The arrival of my first grandchild was like a whirlwind, turning my world upside down in the most beautiful way. I was unexpectedly hit with intense unconditional love, the type you get after the birth of your own children and think you’ll never experience again.
The instant and everlasting bond I have with my first grandchild is truly magical, it fills my heart to the brim and coupled with this love I feel a huge weight of responsibility. Realising the important role I’d have to play in shaping this new life, a role that I wasn’t quite sure I was prepared for through having lost my only Grandmother at just 5 years old. The lessons I have learned along the way will stay with me forever and help shape my ever-evolving beautiful life’s journey.
1, Importance of Embracing Change
Change is an inevitable and natural part of life. Before becoming a Grandma, I was content with a full life. Living in a post-divorce blissful haze, with a reinvigorated relationship with my adult children, I found enjoyment and satisfaction in every day and didn’t feel I had any emotional room left to offer. How wrong I was! Life often presents unexpected changes and it is important to embrace these with an open heart, as they usually lead to new exciting things way outside the possibilities of your imagination.
2, Unknown Waters Do Run Deep
My path into the world of Grandparenthood was full of unknowns. I felt fear and apprehension when entering this uncharted territory. Asking myself how I would know if I was doing a good enough job. Today I realise these uncomfortable feelings are a natural process, they help you navigate cautiously and carefully to be your absolute best.
3, Ongoing Personal Growth
Becoming a grandparent demonstrated to me that, even if you feel otherwise, there is always room in your life to continue to; learn, adapt, and grow. I was forced out of my comfort zone to face new challenges and I love it!
4, Being Adaptable
As a grandparent for the first time, I learned the importance of adaptability. I suddenly found myself in an unfamiliar world, where I wasn’t the one calling the parental shots. I wanted to help my daughter and son in law fast-track their parental learning curve by sharing my wealth of experience and expertise, in looking after a baby/ young child, but equally I didn’t want to interfere in their exciting journey. I adapted my approach and hope they agree that we jointly found a happy medium.
5, Take Time to Nurture Relationships
The bond I have with my Granddaughter reminds me of the importance of nurturing relationships. I regularly take time out from my already busy life to make a special effort to strengthen our relationship with ‘Grandma Days’ often featuring as an annual leave item in my works calendar. These days bring me an immeasurable amount of joy and contentment.
6, Love Changes Everything
I know it’s a song lyric but the pure unconditional love of a grandparent for their grandchild is like no other. It’s a reminder and valuable lesson in everyday life that a place of fear and trepidation can quickly transform into an exciting new world when you open your life up and let change flood in. I can truly say I am a transformed character because of this.
As I await the arrival of my second grandchild, I do so with a heart full of excitement. I am ready to embrace the change and venture into the unknown with open arms and ready to adapt and change again, savouring every moment.
I hope you find this blog post helpful and heartfelt, please feel free to let me know!
Loved reading this Rachel. So much of it resonated with me and many congratulations on the birth of your second grandchild. Beautiful xxx