Retired Grandma.
Yesterday was my first official day of retirement. Although I may work on a casual basis from time to time, I am now retired from the full time grind of the Monday to Friday rat race.
It felt odd on Sunday afternoon. In the past I would race against the clock to clean up and pack up our Birch Bay home in order to do the "hurry and wait" game at the border crossing, only to do it again in the traffic buildup for the Port Mann Bridge. Rushing Grandma.
This Sunday was different.
Jen, Mike and Sam came for dinner on their way home from a birthday party in Canada. Brian, our very attractive, but married, Birch Bay neighbour was invited. Graham and Jordan were here for the day. I made a pasta dish I find very comforting and delicious. Thank goodness for Trader Joe's and an excellent vegan Italian Sausage. I love a meal when we are all eating the same dish as it has been a challenge to find something that I feel is tasty for us all. Trying so hard now to be Domestic Grandma. Anxious for cousin Julie's lessons in the kitchen. Be Patient Grandma.
Sam and I went for a one hour walk with Bob during the third period of the hockey game. "I walk like a big boy!" was the theme of the walk and as much as I wanted to hold his hand and the dog's leash, it was Sam who was in control. Pushover Grandma. We made up a game of ...(nevermind, you wouldn't get it) and I was laughing so hard, I almost fell on my face. I probably looked like Drunk Grandma to the neighbours. Highlights included Sam's safety demonstration regarding cars and the numerous sightings of manholes and the subsequent spelling of S.E.W.E.R!
It was dark when we returned and we were in trouble. Bad Grandma.
The game was over and the house began to empty. Mike returned to Seattle. Brian walked across the street to his home. Graham and Jordan drove home to Canada. I stood at the door and waved goodbye to everyone with the exception of Jen and Sam who were staying for a few days. Lucky Grandma.
So my first day of retirement included a one hour early morning cuddle in Grandma's bed which involved letter and number identification and Mickey Mouse. This was closely followed by two hours of gardening when Sam surprised me with his ability to pull weeds and a nice afternoon/early evening for strolling the downtown core of old Bellingham and a great dinner at Grandma's favourite restaurant, Guiseppe's. Spoiled Grandma.
When you are a grandparent you have the license to do whatever you want. This is why my grandson is now the proud owner of plastic Spiderman runners that light up and flash like a neon sign when he jumps in them. Jen loves them so much. Ha!
Lots of hugs and kisses. Many beautiful songs. Tons of imaginative play. So incredibly bright for a two year old. Can you identify all the planets and tell me why each one is so special? Proud Grandma. Imagine what I feel when Sam says, "Grandma, let's kiss now!" Last night before bed he told his daddy on the phone (without prompting) "Sammy loves Grandma so much." Blessed Grandma.
Today just before Jen and Sam returned to Seattle, Sam gave me a pedicure. It hurt like hell. He is taking appointments if you are interested.
I think I will love retirement. I know I love my grandson.
