Rosalyn, tell us about granddaughters, Grace (9) and GG (1).
Grace and Gianna are special for many reason, including being born at specific times when our family needed the joy, happiness, and excitement that children bring. When Grace was born, I was in the delivery room, and it was a feeling that I will remember forever. Grace is a dancer, loves to sing, and is a blessing. I met Gianna a couple of hours after she was born due to COVID-19. She’s grown so fast, enrolled in daycare, experiencing potty time, and talking too.
What is the first memory of bonding with your grandchildren?
The delivery room was my first bonding with Grace. I saw the doctors counting fingers and toes to make sure everything was in place. Gianna was the same, also counting fingers and toes. I laid her across my chest, too, and although I was wearing a mask, she still felt the love.
How does being a grandparent keep you young at heart?
Grandparenting keeps me young at heart because you never know what to expect. Because of the age difference of my grandchildren, Grace has more conversations, questions, and lots of opinions about everything. She keeps me on my toes, awake and sharp. Gianna keeps you moving. If I don’t keep up, she will leave me. She’s starting to talk, and I say, “Okay,” and laugh. She looks at me as if to say, ‘Granny, you have no idea what I just said and walks away.’
Do your granddaughters live nearby? If not, are you able to visit often?
Yes, we live nearby, about 15-20 minutes away. Grace is with me most of the time because of her mother’s work schedule. Gianna pops in maybe once or twice a week. We mostly get together on weekends for ice cream and church.
What are your favorite things to do with your Grace and Gianna?
Grace loves shopping and getting her nails polished, and her favorite store is Five Below. Sometimes, she enjoys skating, but Granny watches from the sidelines. Gianna loves to shop for clothes and shoes, especially shoes. She likes to pull the boxes down and walk away. I love it!
What do you hope your granddaughters remember most from their years with you?
I want them to remember that I was a good person. Always put God first and remember to pray. I want them to remember to be honest, happy, and true to themselves. And to remember, I’m here when they need me, and nobody can beat Granny’s love.
They say that becoming a grandparent is the only thing that lives up to the hype. Would you agree and why?
Becoming a grandparent is a special assignment and an honor. The hype is real! The best feeling is when they say, “I love you.”
Bio: Rosalyn Williams is married to Sellers Williams, and they live in Montgomery. They have two children, Brittany (33) and Bryan (37, and two granddaughters.
