Growing up, I did not have a living grandmother. They both died long before I was born. It wasn't until I had my children that I realized how important a grandmother was; because my children were lucky enough to have my Mom in their lives from birth until she passed away in 1997 and their paternal grandmother who is still alive in her mid 90's as of the date I am writing this page.
In 1993 I became a grandmother, at age 42, when my grandson Dillon was born. The feelings that overwhelmed me throughout my daughter's pregancy and during his birth were joy and much anticipation. As much as I loved my children, I realized that I loved that grandson of mine more than I had ever thought was humanly possible.
He was my only grandchild for nearly 7 years and then once they started coming at that point, it was like the dam broke and I was so blessed to have so many in the years that have followed. And to share a little news with you, my daughter Ali and husband Tony are going to make me a Grammy again in the summer of 2007. How lucky I am.
Grandparenting has had some heartbreak for me. Losing my grandbaby Cole during the latter part of my daughter's pregnancy in 2000 is something that I will never get over. Having to bury a grandchild is not something that anyone should have to go through and there is no way to ever really comfort your child who's suffered the greatest loss.
God has blessed me with many other biological, adopted and foster grandchildren who bring such joy to my life and comfort me in my times of sadness missing Cole. It's hard to be sad when you have these beautiful children who bring you nothing but smiles and pride. There's nothing like a hug from your grandchild to make you feel truly loved.
Two of my children and their spouses have also taken the path of becoming foster parents. I'm so proud of them for opening their homes to children who need a place to feel safe and loved. Some only stay for a short time ~ others will be my grandchildren for a long time to come. Each one is a special blessing not only to my childrens' family but to me as a Grammy. Each one has touched my heart.
Every child deserves a safe home filled with love. Every child deserves the opportunity to grow up with happiness and not sadness in their life. God has brought extra grandchildren into my life and I'm so happy about it that I wanted to share with you. I want to make you aware of the need for foster families throughout this country. There are so many children waiting, languishing in group homes just waiting for a family who will open their home and hearts to them.
I encourage those who read my page and have considered being foster parents to move forward and open your home and hearts to one of the children who is waiting out there for a special home. If you are a parent who's child decides to foster, encourage them and support them and the rewards you will get back will be ten-fold. I'm proud to share ALL my grandchildren with you. I think I'm truly blessed. |
My grandchildren today ~ all own a piece of my heart.
The children below are ones I've had the opportunity to be
a grandmother for during 2006 for a short time and each one
will always hold a special place in my heart.
| There are currently over half a million children in the foster care system in the United States today. On average, a child who enters care will remain in foster care for 32 months, and only about half will return to their parents. |
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