Lifestyle
Being a grandparent can be an incredible experience, but not all grandparents are the same. Some are overly involved, while others take on a more distant persona, reminiscent of Clint Eastwood in Gran Torino, constantly grumbling about the younger generation. Regardless of the quirks, it’s normal to have a few complaints about family members we love dearly.
I want to take a moment to appreciate my in-laws. When my partner, Sarah, and I welcomed our son, we were just 24 years old. I was balancing college with a part-time job, and Sarah was busy working full-time. Affording daycare was not feasible, so Grandma stepped in to help.
She watched over our son, Jamie, nearly every day until he turned two, never once asking for compensation or even a formal thank you—though we expressed our gratitude often. She showered him with love, changed his diapers, bought him clothes, and ensured he enjoyed nutritious meals (along with a few too many Happy Meals). She even helped foster his early obsession with The Wiggles.
When we relocated from Utah to Minnesota for graduate school, my in-laws accompanied us, assisting with packing, unpacking, and settling in. Upon leaving, my mother-in-law shed tears as if parting from her own son, reflecting on the time she had spent with Jamie. They have been there for every milestone, from baptisms to graduations. They even took care of our three energetic kids while Sarah and I enjoyed a cruise for our 11th anniversary.
Reflecting on my own childhood, I didn’t have the best family dynamic. My father struggled with addiction and spent time in jail, while my mother battled severe depression. With a history of tumultuous relationships, I ran away at 14 and ended up living with my grandmother. This background made it challenging for me to grasp the concept of family when I got married 13 years ago. It felt transient, and I had trouble forming close bonds, fearing people would leave just like those before them.
At first, I felt overwhelmed by my in-laws’ presence. I questioned their frequent offers of help and involvement in our lives. But as I observed their care for Sarah and me, and their genuine love for my children, I learned what family truly means.
I can confidently say that without Sarah’s parents, I might not have completed college. More importantly, I discovered what it means to genuinely love and be devoted to family. Their example taught me the significance of real sacrifices and the importance of being completely invested in the ones you love.
I know I’m not alone in this experience. Many parents are fortunate to have wonderful grandparents who accompany them on family trips, providing that essential extra pair of hands. They are the go-to people when something goes awry or when you need advice. They happily take your kids, spoil them with treats and screen time, offering you and your partner a much-needed break before returning them slightly hyper but otherwise okay.
If you have incredible grandparents in your life who offer non-judgmental support, take a moment to acknowledge them. Let them know how much you value their patience and commitment to one of life’s toughest challenges—raising a family.
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In summary, being an amazing grandparent involves a balance of support, love, and understanding, demonstrating the true meaning of family.