Judy, what is it like having four granddaughters?
Judy: If I had to answer in one word, I would say “fun!” It is a unique gift to have so many baby girls around, especially after having five sons of my own. I joke that I need a hair-bow in every color to keep up with all the girls. Also, watching my sons grow and evolve into incredible husbands and fathers has been one of the most rewarding parts of parenthood.
What is the most important thing you and Mike have learned as grandparents?
Judy: The most important thing we have learned as grandparents is that time goes by too quickly. Our children and grandchildren represent the most authentic and pure love found in humanity. I think when you become a grandparent, you fully understand. When I look back, I realize my younger self never fully grasped this.
What traditions do you share with your grandchildren?
Judy: Tradition is huge in our family. From the youngest to the oldest, everyone participates, and they are the foundation of our ever-growing family. The size of our family and frequency of our gatherings make our traditions unique. We have 114 relatives, and most are located right here in Montgomery. Most families have a yearly reunion; we have about four per year. The holidays: Christmas, Easter, Thanksgiving, and the Fourth of July are all times for gathering as a family.
Everyone joins in, which typically means we reserve a space, like the church activity hall. Our granddaughters join in on every tradition we hold as a family. The games, Santa Claus, and chicken fingers are central at our gatherings. We are grateful for the family traditions that were established by Mike’s father and uncles. We know the legacy will be carried on by our grandchildren.
How does grandparenting keep you young at heart?
Judy: Grandchildren let you relive memories from the happiest parts of raising your children. Being thrown back into the world of little ones keeps us moving and helps keep us young.
What have your grandchildren taught you about life?
They have taught us that life moves fast. We have learned to cherish the very moment we are living in. We also strive to prioritize our health and enjoy the same activities with our grandchildren that we experienced with our children. We want to create those same memories and give them something to remember well beyond their adult years.
Is it true that grandparenting lives up to the hype?
Judy: It truly exceeds the hype. Being a grandparent is one of the greatest gifts to experience in a lifetime. I’m unsure if you can prepare your heart for a never-ending love story.
What advice would you offer new grandparents?
Judy: Spend as much time with them as you can. They quite literally change every day. Continue setting the example by your parents and grandparents and always instill the importance of faith and family.
Bio: Judy and Mike Barranco have been married 41 years. They have five sons, one daughter, and four granddaughters: Alexandra Wynn (2), Linnea Jean (2), Catherine Scott (9 months), and Ruby Lane (3 weeks).
