A week ago, my oldest daughter gave birth to a son. For me, becoming a parent and raising two daughters was the most rewarding, the hardest, and the happiest of times. If I do say so myself, my husband and I did a pretty amazing job. Both my daughters are intelligent, beautiful, accomplished, confident, independent and kind women. If I were to repeat the advice that I gave to my daughters along the way, these would be some of the ideas I tried to convey. First and Foremost, be kind to everyone: girls, especially, must be nice to other girls. Second, pick something you love to do and something you can also do from your home when children do come into the picture ( I so wish my parents had stressed this). Third, whatever your age, a woman should never define herself by having a man or being in a relationship. Fourth, when and if you do fall in love, make sure the person respects you, make sure they love you beyond infinity and puts you first at ALL times. Finally, know that parents do the best they can. They never intentionally screw up, but it happens.
So now that my job of raising my daughters is done, I have been assigned a new position. I am Nonni and I have the most exquisite grandson. This job is a little easier and a lot more fun! My grandson is perfect in everyway-REALLY! So, I will now reveal what I have learned so far. Most important and never to be forgotten: my grandson's parents are very,very smart. They will figure out what to do and how to do it without my advice. If they want advice or assistance, I am more than happy to oblige. But, I am confident in my daughter and son in laws abilities and this is their child, not mine. Next, Love your grandchild unconditionally. You don't have to be quite as strict this time around. Let them know they can come to you for any reason and at any time. Get on the floor and play with your grandchild. Be silly. Sing to them. Read to them. Bake with them. Dance with them. And then,teach them to respect and be kind to everyone no matter their race, religion, political preference, or sex. And one day soon, my grandson, you will learn to treat women as your equal and at the same time, be a gentleman. Open doors, Stand up when a woman approaches a table; Listen intently when a woman (or anyone for that matter) talks-hear what they are saying; Pull out her chair when she sits down; Never curse, bite your nails, fart, or pick your nose! Manners are a lost art these days and need to be taught.
All that being said, I am in magnificent bliss. I am flying high. I am elated beyond any description. I watch my baby caring for her baby and tears of joy rain down upon my face. She and her husband have produced an amazing young man-a miraculous blessing. I cherish these past days and look so foward to many minutes, hours, days and years of watching this beautiful boy grow up and enjoy this magical world. How blessed I am ........How lucky I am.......And how lucky he is to be surrounded by so many incredible people who love him.
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