I spent most of the summer being Grandma. It felt so good to see my children as parents of interesting, capable, young people. We welcomed a new baby, an 8 lb. 12 oz. wonderful boy. Even though I don’t feel “old” enough to have 10 grandchildren, I am deeply grateful for each one. My summer–in a list:

• played and swam at the pool
• treated to ice cream
• spent a fortune on groceries
• cooked and cleaned; repeated often
• read books
• pitched balls
• sang lullabies
• went to a hiphop program
• watched softball games
• hiked in the woods
• washed little clothes
• rocked the baby
• fed the yellow lab, Champ
• got to know Charlie, the labradoodle puppy
• pushed strollers
• marveled at the wonder of childhood

In this time of uncertainty in the world, it comforts me to know family love thrives–that imperfect people can join in loving ways, forgiving when necessary and laughing often. When my kids get going on rapid-fire text messaging, all five of them join in, communicating in the familiar patterns that define sibling relationships. I’m happy to be included, although I have to be quick-fingered to keep up. Mostly, I smile.

I’m still transitioning to full-speed-ahead teaching, but I carry warm, summer memories to sustain me in the days ahead.

Note: Hoping to bring “greenbelt” writing to my teachers and their students! Thank you, Ralph Fletcher! I attended the JoyFest in Maine with Ralph Fletcher and Barry Lane. More about that next time!