Just Taking it All In with a Let-it-Go Frame-of-Mind

I’m an “all in” kind-of-gal. I’ll admit that being all-in is easy when it comes to savoring the moments with my grandchildren. Sweet one-on-one time with my grown-up ones -- Braden and his wife, Ruth, and Barrett, while I was in Austin doing animal care. Braden and Ruth are still "honeymooning" after nearly three years of marriage. Maybe 2020 will be the year for a great grand-baby; at least that’s what a little bird told me! I’m not holding my breath, but, after seeing “The Lion King”, yesterday with the four younger grands, I started getting excited about the potential of the “circle of life” continuing in our family.

I’m an “all in” kind-of-gal. I’ll admit that being all-in is easy when it comes to savoring the moments with my grandchildren. Sweet one-on-one time with my grown-up ones -- Braden and his wife, Ruth, and Barrett, while I was in Austin doing animal care. Braden and Ruth are still "honeymooning" after nearly three years of marriage. Maybe 2020 will be the year for a great grand-baby; at least that’s what a little bird told me! I’m not holding my breath, but, after seeing “Lion King” with the four younger grands, I started getting excited about the potential of the “circle of life” continuing in our family.

When trying to decide “What should we do today?” and the suggestion of Chuck-E-Cheese came up – we were all in…. again! (Yes, this crew STILL wants to hang out there) – so funny to see them all so determined to chalk up more tickets than ever before – final count after pizza and two hours of play: 3,150! The next day they chose Ninja Nation – an American Ninja Warrior-like facility where obstacle courses give kids and adults body challenging action. Only problem was the blisters on their softy hands from hanging on bars and other obstacles. The new "Lion King" movie gave us all great feel-good feelings. The story line is similar to the original animated version, but the computer-generated life-like characters, music and current one-liners made for such a great afternoon.

In between all the go-to activities is always Nana’s standby oldie but goodie, Nintendo 64 – Mario Party, and other games that make me laugh, considering the current high-tech versions of video games on their phones and theater screens at home. A bocce championship on the courts in my community made for hilarious competition: Bryson and I on one team and Payton and Brennan on the other. Bryson and I, calmly accepting or not getting another “closest to the palino” score, while the other two highly-competitive guys throwing themselves on the ground in defeat or chest-bumping each other in the win. We had to have a play-off for the championship game and Bryson and I, gracefully, congratulated the winners in all their glory!

Maybe you’re still in the parenting mode, but, before long (Trust me…..the time flies!), grand-parenting will become a part of your world, and in that case, my PRO-Nana recommendation is to get intimately involved in their lives. Moms and dads are no doubt the greatest influencers, but grandparents can come in a close second. My husband and I teamed up for the first many years of the older kids’ lives. The youngest two only get me – so I have to step it up and be all in for both of us now. It isn’t a hard task. It’s a circle-of-life pleasure for me.

We always wanted our grandchildren to know that we pray for them, stand ready to be there for them, and to support them as best we could. I'm, by no means, wanting to be dishing out a guilt trip to anyone that doesn't have that "bent", but I assure you, there is nothing to compare to that precious love and hearing: "Nana, I love you so much! Am I your favorite?” And my reply, “Yes, you’re my favorite Payton! Alexia! Bryson! Brennan!” Along with this over-the-top, care-free spirit of this grandmother, is a brilliant one who knows…I love them too much to compare them or to even want them to be alike in any way. Just like God, I love them with the love of a devoted, grateful, and indescribable love that only grandparents AND God understands.

"The simplest toy, one which even the youngest child can operate, is called a grandparent." -- Sam Levenson

My Sunshine on a Cloudy Day

I was awake in the night praying for my granddaughter. She was leaving on her first driving-trip alone to Austin yesterday morning. At 17 she's a great driver, but I send off a quick text message to her: “Looks like lots of rain this morning, sweet girl. Please, please be careful and cautious. Praying angels around you.” I go back to sleep and wake up thinking about her. I better text her and remind her that the Dallas traffic really picks up the later she leaves. (I drive these roads often so I know what lies ahead of her!) I better tell her to leave early before the traffic gets heavy! My text: “Good morning, precious girl. Are you close to heading out? I pray angels all around you, sweet girl. As you’re going down Dallas Tollway, don’t be like me switching lanes. Pick a lane and just stay in it. That’s the best way. Sorry, I’m being a Nana nag. But I love you so much I want you protected and safe. Have a wonderful weekend. I look forward to hearing all about it. I love you so so much!”

I call her a couple of hours later and find out she’s safely made it to Italy, Texas and past Carl’s Corner. All is well. What in the world is the matter with this doting Nana? Yes. I am. Proud of it. Each one of my grandchildren has had my special attention, but this girl of five boys, I’m smitten. I think the love dosage has increased of late as I’m seeing my girl blossom into a beautiful young woman who not only cracks me up with her wit but now true wisdom has kicked in on so many levels. I’m so proud of her as she just graduated from high school. And to celebrate, all she asked for was to spend last weekend at her Uncle Ryan and Aunt Shawntel’s home with the boys. (I missed out because I was in Tulsa for a reunion with friends.)

I realize I’m having to continue to untie my “Nana” apron strings with the older grands. After Alexia, came Brennan (14) and Bryson (12) so I have more letting go to do with them eventually, but for now I’ll continue to do what I do best. Love them, spend as much time with them as I can…..and pray for them.

It’s expected that a good Mom and Nana keeps her heart and eyes open for them – right? I’ve been on this life path for many years, going before them. I know my subtle “recommendations” to them are often overkill and unneeded, but it’s innate to want them safe and protected and I think it’s my job to ensure that happens. Oh me! Then, the best reality check comes to mind. It isn’t my frugal attempts to keep them safe that makes the difference – it is our all-sufficient and all-loving God Who is overabundant in grace and mercy to handle all that for me.

Reality check. No matter what path we (and our children) walk or drive down, God is one step ahead. No matter what mountain we (and our children) come up against, He is already climbing it. No matter what journey of uncertainty we (and our children) encounter, God is 100 steps further. He’s laying out our path and their path and preparing our steps.

“The LORD is the one who goes ahead of you; He will be with you He will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” Deuteronomy 31:8
‘The LORD your God who goes before you will Himself fight on your behalf…” Deuteronomy 1:30

God is famous for caring and preparing us and our children for greater things. He walks ahead to fight our battles. He calms the storms we’re convinced we can’t beat. He softens the blows we worry will take us down. He knows our roads.

Here’s what I know: I worry less when I hand over the worry and concerns to He Who is the waymaker, provider, and caregiver – extraordinaire!

FYI – just got a text from her – “Just stopped at CFA (Chick-fil-A) in Waco! Got a yummy breakfast!” The girl works at CFA and still wants to eat there! No need to worry or fret! The girl’s got game……and chicken!

My 2017 Nana Resolutions

Of all the joys in my life, my sweet six grandkids are right at the top! This season of my life is providing even more opportunities to bond and relish in the treasures that they are to me.

Since my home sold in Tulsa last September, I've known God's nudges for this new season of life and my grandkids have had my attention more than ever. My oldest grandson, 24 year old Braden, married the love of his life, Ruth, on October 1st, after graduating from firefighter and paramedic training, and Ruth graduating from ICIU neonatal school. They purchased their first home and now are settled in their careers in Georgia. They just had their 6th anniversary of their first date. I love that they found their true loves and that God gave me another granddaughter in Ruth. She is the answer to my prayers and dream-come-true for Braden AND me!

Barrett (aka Bear), age 21, my #2 grandson, who I adore, is in his 2nd year of Interns at City Church in Kirkland, Washington. He blesses me so much with his easy-going style and he told me on this trip, “Nana, the more in love with Jesus that I become, the more I am at peace with my life today and what He has for my future.” I’m so glad he was with the two younger brothers and I during this week of Christmas to New Year’s. We’ve had so many good talks and I've heard him give such wise and tender words to his two little brothers.

Payton, age 16, is so very special to me because he has carried on so many of his Papa’s loves – fishing, hunting, piano playing. I believe he often plays the piano with Papa in mind which, of course, draws me into his heart. He’ll often say things like “I remember when Papa…..or ask “Nana, did Papa ever….?” Several years ago, Payton chose to be home schooled. He wasn’t the typical athletic jock as sports held little interest for him, but being home schooled, he has been afforded the opportunity to volunteer countless hours at his church where he plays the piano for the youth and carries a church master key and is a servant leader in the stage crew and music departments.

My beautiful 15-year old Alexia (aka Lexi) was my first, and only granddaughter until Braden married Ruth. She has been such a bright spot in my life. She is girly as can be, has the most hilarious sense of humor, has her own style, and she, too, chose to be home schooled. Since birth, Alexia has been a free spirit which gives her the ability to be her own girl. She has so many artistic abilities, sings beautifully and is on her youth group’s worship team. I love her sense of humor and perfect timing of comic relief! She keeps us in stitches!

Brennan is my charming and complimentary (knows what to say to make this Nana blush) 12 year-old athlete. He is an outstanding, all-around baseball player, playing on select teams. He is the one closest to his daddy’s personality and keen awareness for business. I suspect he will follow in his dad's footsteps as an entrepreneur. He does a great job creating movies on his iPhone and just recently I was with him when he finished a school project that required a lot of computer graphic skills in creating a cereal box cover. It was no surprise that he won first place.

I’m savoring every moment I can with youngest, 10-year old, Bryson, who still loves sitting in my lap and letting me cuddle him. He loves being home schooled and has excelled because of the individual attention he has received from his “hot” (his words) for his mom, teacher and principal. His love for animals and their love for him is such a gift. He is passionate about his goats, horse, donkey, and his dog, Bentley, providing their daily care, without having to remind him. He is such a sweet boy and that sweet smile and heart melts my heart! He’s also a great golfer. That’s his game and getting better at it all the time.

If you’ve never stopped by my FB page or my blog at LivingInThePeaceZone.blogspot.com, well, you’ve just met my seven grandchildren and why I adore each and everyone of them.

But this post today is not as much about them as it is about me, and the influencer I can be in this new year of 2017. I desire to continue to be the most awesome, positive, loving, encouraging and devoted Nana aka Grandmother that I can possibly be to those seven precious grandchildren. Hey, I’m a grandmother. I don’t have to be humble. Bragging is part of the rules of grandparenting! LOL!
But this post today is not as much about them as it is about me, and what I can be in this new year of 2017 in continuing to be the most awesome, positive, loving, encouraging and devoted Nana aka Grandmother that I could possibly be to those 7 precious grandchildren. Hey, I’m a grandmother. I don’t have to be humble. Bragging is part of the rules of being an awesome grandparent.

But this year, I’m making not just New Year’s Resolutions, but making 2017 Nana Resolutions. Though I try to live up to the lofty ideal set by Hallmark movies (I love that channel – I’m a romantic at heart) and those crafty grandmothers who make costumes and projects, I know that I will inevitably fall short of the mark. Nevertheless I will do my best to be my best at who God made me to be. Here are my 2017 Nana Resolutions:

#1. Worry less and pray more. I will give my concerns for my grandchildren to God. I will pray that He guides their steps and He opens their ears to hear His voice, and, ultimately, that they make choices based upon what they know is right. And when they don’t….to worry less and pray more, because if Holy Spirit can’t get through to them, who do I think I am that I can?

#2. Disconnect my mind from my mouth. I know this is key. Sure the grandparent brain is packed full of firsthand experience of doing the wrong thing at the wrong time and we want to save our grandchildren (and their parents, for that matter) so much time and energy. But, I resolve to hold my mouth from unsolicited advice, opinions and/or judgments…..UNLESS, of course, I am asked to be an Advisor, then "Katie, bar the door, because I’m coming in, loaded for bear!!!"

#3. Give 100% focus and attention to my grandchildren when I’m in their presence. That means putting away my phone AND computer and look eye-to-eye in their sweet eyes and listen, full on, like they are the single most valuable and treasured, important persons in my world….AND THEY ARE!

#4. Be an example of showing them WHO my best friend is. Of course my best friend is Jesus. A best friend is someone we talk about a lot. We imitate our best friend. We tell stories about our best friend. I want my best friend to be their best friend so I'll continue to introduce Him, and share Him with them every chance I get. I'll teach them a lot about "What would Jesus do?"

I shared this with you today because I really do want to spare you from some of the mistakes I’ve made over the 24 years of being a grandparent. I’ve made some mistakes along the way, but by now, I’ve pretty well mastered the right things to do. Why is it so important? Because of all the jewels I could have around my neck, the arms of my grandkids are the most precious to me! I am embracing every moment that I can watch them in their own zones --- each of them individually and perfectly designed by their Master Designer. We're making memories, and Nana's counting her blessings. Of all the joys that life brings.....there is nothing sweeter, than being loved by little people and the big ones when they grow up!

Grandparenting Taken to a Whole New Level

My Dad's parents were already in heaven before I was sent from heaven to earth, but I had the most precious grandmother and grandfather (my Mom's Mom & Dad). My grandmother's claim-to-fame in my books, is that she introduced my husband and I when we were just 13 and 12 years old. Her words were "Ronnie Wuerch says he likes you". My reply was "Tell him I like him, too!" From that point forward, we were destined to be together forever. I loved my grandparents and they loved me so much -- their prayers for me are still working. Their love for God and His Word had such a tremendous impact on my life. As precious as they were in my eyes as a young child, I never knew that "hands on" grandparenting. . I didn't even realize I didn't have it, until years later when I became a grandparent. When our grandparenting time came, we knew we wanted an "up close and personal" relationship with our grandchildren. So from the get-go, we set out to be those doting, over-the-top in love in words and deeds. Way before my first grandson was born, I had a "Hope Chest" of toys, puzzles and books.....that would be at Papa & Nana's house. In fact, to this day, I still have the old Nintendo 64 controllers and games. I still have their favorite book "Barbapapa" and I still have the Lincoln Logs and Legos. They all know they'll find those "treasures" at Nana's house!

If grandparenting hasn't become a part of your world yet, before long, it just may be and my best recommendation to you is to get intimately involved in their lives. While moms and dads are no doubt the greatest influencers, grandparents can come in a close second. We always wanted our grandchildren to know that we pray for them, stand ready to be there for them, and to support them as best we could, given though the miles that may have separated us. I'm, by no means, wanting to be dishing out a guilt trip to anyone that doesn't have that "bent", but I assure you, there is nothing to compare with that precious love. There is nothing sweeter on this earth than to hear "Nana, I love you so much!"

This post today was actually inspired by a sweet grandmother that saw my post yesterday, where I was sharing about the treasure hunts I've provided since all of my grandchildren were little. It's been "Nana's tradition". The treasure hunts end at age 18, but I remember my oldest grandson's dismay when on his 18th birthday I didn't have the treasure hunt ready to go for him, and when I saw that pout, I went into "turbo charge" mode to get it together. LOL! That FB grandmother asked me about those treasure hunts for her grandkids, and rather than just telling her, I share it with you, too, .......just in case......

~ Nana's Treasure Hunts ~
What's Needed: creativity, some extra time, rhyming ability (use the internet -- great for helping us find words that rhyme -- like "Go to the Rose Garden where it smells so sweet; Did I tell you....you have smelly feet?"), pick out places to hide the clues -- the younger they are, the easier the places and when they're older, it really is about "search and rescue", a birthday card that starts the treasure hunt with a clue, notes that have the clue on them and put in a box or envelope -- oftentimes with a bow attached that makes it easier to find in a tree or behind a rock, etc.)
Let the Treasure Hunt Begin:
~ Child opens card -- if younger, an older sibling or parent reads the clue and the fun begins. Note: be careful to not let the older sibling help too much -- it's all about the birthday boy or girl to know it's THEIR Treasure Hunt to find. If they're having trouble with finding the clue, it's okay to provide extra verbal clues along the way.

~ I usually have about 6 to 8 locations with accompanying clues that lead to the final clue and the BIG TREASURE (really not all that big, but it's the birthday gift from the grandparents instead of that gift just being among the mix of all the other gifts the child is given on their birthday.)

~ Simple, but memorable and that's what I'm into. Memorable for them AND me. I sometimes spice it up by using a golf cart to drive them around (that was easy for me living in a 55+ community) to find their clues. Also, sometimes I start the hunt with a theme, like a couple of years ago on Bryson's birthday, the theme was "What does the fox say?" If it's raining -- treasure hunt is in the house. If it's dark, have clues stationed closer to home and use flashlights.

~ Here is a sample of the clues used at my oldest grandson's 9 year old birthday (14 years ago) -- yes, I'm an archiver -- gotta' hang on to the memories! LOL!

Braden, Braden, You’re Our Man
If you can’t find this, no one can!
Now that you’ve been fed --
Your next clue you’ll find in Payton’s baby bed!

One, two, three, four,
Braden’s birthdays have numbered more,
Five, six, seven, eight,
It’s time to celebrate.
Braden is a great big nine.
Oh my goodness, He’s so fine.
Go look inside the washing machine!
You’re next clue may be green!

Where oh where has our little boy gone?
Oh where oh where can he be?
With his eyes so big and his legs so long!
Oh where oh where is he?
And where is the next clue?
Try Papa’s closet - near his shoes!

Braden & Barrett sitting in a tree,
Counting apples - one, two, three,
Up comes the doctor, Up comes the
nurse, then comes the lady with the
alligator purse! Purse?????
Look in Nana’s closet by her purse!

I love you. You love me.
We’re a happy family.
With a great big hug and
a kiss from me to you
Look under the table where
you chew, chew, chew!

Braden Cole is so cool!
He’s the best when it comes to school!
He’s kind and sweet to everyone!
That’s why we think he’s so much fun!
Now look by the tree in the big backyard!
That’s where you’ll find the very last card!

NOW -- go out there and make a difference in your grandchildren's world. Be silly and energetic and bring wonder to their eyes and hearts with your love that makes them feel so happy you're in their lives. I promise you -- it will be worth the effort!

Thankful on Mother's Day

It's Mother's Day, and I'm so thankful for my angel mom (on the right, Edna Pearl Wheat -- she's in heaven's grandstands cheering me on), and my dear mother-in-law, Lydia Wuerch (still going strong at age 91) -- two women that have been such amazing role models in faith, and life, to me! But, most importantly, these two "best friends" prayed together, strategized and conspired for our "match made on earth and in heaven". We definitely had an "arranged" marriage -- one that was arranged by these two, and arranged by God. I honor both of these two Godly women who knew God's plans long before we did. My deepest thanksgiving to God for His handiwork through them!

And, I am so thankful for these two precious girls that God blessed me with, and who blessed me with my precious grandchildren who call me "Nana"! I'm saying "Happy Mother's Day" to them,and to all you beautiful and precious mothers out there today!