A Year of Grandparenting: Distance, Dreams, and Devotion

Last week my granddaughter turned 1. Where did the last year go?

I know I was a young mom, but I never expected to become a young grandparent as well. It’s strange and sometimes mentally hard. I always pictured myself as the fun grandparent—taking my grandkids on adventures, making crafts, and sharing laughter. But my granddaughter doesn’t live near me, and at times, I feel like I’m missing so much as she grows up. Life doesn’t slow down for anyone; I still have to work and carry significant responsibilities. I wish I could press pause and savor the little moments, but time just keeps slipping away.

Still, I am grateful for the good relationship I have with my children, and I hope to build just as strong a bond with my grandchildren—however many I may have someday. It’s true: we never stop worrying about our adult kids, and now that concern extends to their children. No one tells you how hard parenting is, or that grandparenting comes with its own set of challenges and joys.

As I reflect on this first year, I’m reminded how important it is to cherish the moments we do get, even if they’re brief or far apart. Distance may separate us, but love bridges the gap. I want my granddaughter to know, as she grows, that kindness matters, that curiosity leads to wisdom, and that love is the greatest gift of all.

So, here are some wishes for her—and for myself—as we continue this journey together:

• Love generously: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” — 1 Peter 4:8
• Practice kindness: Every act of compassion makes the world brighter.
• Seek wisdom and wonder: “Wonder is the beginning of wisdom.” — Socrates
• Be grateful for each day: The little things often become the big things.
• Be brave and true: Courage will carry us through the unknown.

Maybe I won’t be able to do all the “fun grandparent” things I imagined, but I’ll do my best to stay connected and share whatever love, guidance, and support I can—no matter the miles between us. And I hope someday she’ll look back and know she was cherished every step of the way.