When I saw this, written by Annie Korzen and published in the AARP Bulletin (May 2016), I alternated between chuckles and nodding in agreement. Because I like to keep my posts short, I’ll divide this up into a few, spread-out posts. Enjoy!
I’m a new grandmother [says Annie Korzen], but am I cut out for it? Look at how differently I raised my son from how he’s raising his.
Passtimes — Then: eating, drinking, peeing and pooping, often simultaneously. Now: Swim classes at six months, gymnastics at one year.
Food — Then: Whatever could be mashed–like last night’s spicy meatballs. Now: Gluten-free and grass-fed only, if you please!
Hygiene — Then: “Don’t let the baby eat anything that’s been on the floor longer than three hours.” Now: “You want to hold the baby? Sure–mind wearing these surgical gloves?”
Halloween candy — Then: “Because I’m the mother, and I say you can’t eat it all tonight.” Now: Lovingly explain the glycemic index until Junior understands and accepts your point of view.
[Watch for more, in Parts 2 and 3. And, grandparents, just enjoy the kids!]