For almost six months of the first year of my first great grandson’s life, I was able to care for him while his mom worked to finish her college degree. The time was spent mostly cuddling with a newborn, changing diapers and making sure he was fed and loved. As days passed into months, I realized that the hitch in my get-along was losing its grip. The babysitting assignment had to be adjusted because an 83 year old woman was getting closer to 84 and many of her body parts were falling apart. I truly am grateful for the short time I’ve had to spend with him. He’s now over 18 months old.
Yesterday, I was able to rerun the experience for half of the day. This little man has developed into a toddler who loves to run, rather than walk. He is a happy child with a permanent smile on his face. He is well loved and cared for on a daily basis by kind caregivers. I rose before the crack of dawn to be certain I would be on time for my morning babysitting assignment of filling in for one of them. I reasoned it would be for a very short time, so took advantage of it. He is a very curious child who loves to play with a mountain of toys. He examines all of them before actually doing so. He seems to be trying to figure out how they work. He’s beginning to say several words. He refers to me as GiGi. Sitting down for a book reading is less than a minute event right now. He’s beginning to work small puzzles. I’m very proud of him and am so happy to be part of his early years.
I went from there to a meeting with my theatre group of actors 55 and older. We’re beginning to facilitate our Jewels of deNial for another year. The meeting was productive. We established work duties for each of us. I will not be performing anymore but will continue to write scripts for the group. As I sat there, looking at my cohorts, there was a feeling of nostalgia and a bit of loss. All of our shows are designed to be old time radio shows, so we have scripts. Actors are all skilled and have years of experience. This was the other end of the spectrum. These people have become close friends who truly care about each other.
Through both of these experiences in one day, I felt completely blessed. I was exhausted by the time I arrived home but also felt invigorated in my brain because of the purpose God had in mind for me yesterday. When we get old, we tend to downplay our usefulness. We can easily fall victims of our aging bodies. Time is not on our side. The months, weeks, days and minutes are so important to our mental and physical health. The minute we stop doing – we stop living. There’s a time for that too. Up until yesterday, I was feeling a bit purposeless. Being exposed to both ends of the circle of life was exactly what I needed.
THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR ANOTHER DAY!
THANK YOU, JESUS, FOR ANOTHER DAY!

And you are writing. Your writing is a gift as well as your paintings.
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Thank you Karla. I have always been busy – just like my great grandson. It’s hard to change an old dog’s tricks, but I’m beginning to realize I have to limit what I do.
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I am the same way …always ADD. I just turned 70…I walk but I find I have to be more careful. Even though I am in good health and shape, a knee will feel like going out…you don’t know anymore…lol. So, you are doing great for your age. I am inspired.
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Oh, great grand kids are just the best! We have one, too. I’m pleased you were able to get out and see some people. That always brightens my spirits. 🙂
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So beautiful and true Kathy. You are a person highly favored and valuable.
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Thank you Pam. So are you.
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God will let us know when we have to stop. Until then, we still serve a purpose here.
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I really enjoyed this one, Kathy! 😘
I’m so glad to know that you’re getting out and getting active this spring. Are you doing the driving? Or your grandson?
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Thanks Tam. I still am able to drive as long as it’s not too far. Most of my destinations are within a 5-10 mile radius. I guess I’m still doing pretty good for an old lady. I thank Jesus for every day, but I look forward to seeing him face to face. How are things going in your life? You are among the many I pray for.
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Thanks so much, Kathy🥹
I’ve been pray for you, and yours – as well.
Things are going exceptionally well – God is working it all out for my good, and for His Glory!
I will have a Praise Report for you very soon🙌🏾
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Thanks so much, Kathy🥹
I too pray for you and yours😘
I will have a praise report for you soon!!
In the meantime, KEEP PRAYING 🙏🏾
God is working it all out for my good and for His Glory🙌🏾🙌🏾
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He is always there for us.
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🙏🏾 Amen
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Blessings Kathy. Thank you for sharing the connections you experienced throughout your day. Colleen and I are looking forward to seeing what our youngest grandchild in Montana will be up to when we visit in a couple of months. Reed is a very active four-year old.
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It’s always fun to be with little ones and see their progression. I feel blessed to be a part of my great grandson’s life.😃
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