Martha and Bobby

They are parents, grandparents and great-grandparents. They still enjoy each other’s companionship and love after decades of marriage.  I can’t think of a better example for children to observe than a loving, enduring relationship like this one.

Now that 80 is the new 70, many children have a third generation active in their lives.  Although the stamina may not be there to care for the greatkids the way they did the grandkids, there remains a strong bond that is a priceless gift to children, and the adults, who are fortunate enough to share that special relationship.

How you involve your children with the older generation is fundamental to providing the comfort level that encourages nurturing and devotion. It takes honest communication and planning. 

I have heard many names for grandma and grandpa: big mama, pop pop, nana, gigi, poppy, mamaw, papa,  oma, abuelita, big daddy, oni, granny, and grammy.

How about your family?  How do your kids distinguish between the grands and the greats?  Please write in the comment section some of those creative pet names affectionately passed on in your family.

One last thing: these dear folks are not just the roles they play in your life and in the lives of your children. They are individuals with dreams and needs of their own. When they close their eyes and dance, for a few moments they may remember being teenagers at the high school prom.  The dance may be slower now, but their devotion is even stronger than when they were just  ’going steady’.

So, to Martha and Bobby and all the great grandparents out there, you are loved! Keep dancing!  

The Schoolmarm