What makes your grandchildren unique?
There is no shortage of personality when it comes to our three granddaughters. Our oldest granddaughter, Mila (6), loves art. Getting to do crafts with her is such a joy! Everly (3) loves to cheer, and Emma (3) loves to sing.
What is the first memory of bonding with your grandchildren?
I just loved holding and rocking my granddaughters when they were born. I remember the first time each one smiled at me, and I cherish those memories very dearly. As toddlers, hearing each one of them call us “Gigi” and “Pop Pop” for the first time was so special.
How does being a grandparent keep you young at heart?
My granddaughters bring joy and excitement into my life, which is truly rejuvenating. Grandparents can relive the joy, reconnect with their inner child, and experience the fun of playing with their grandchildren.
All three are full of energy. Taking the girls to the park or pool keeps us young at heart. It keeps me physically active and healthy.
Do your grandkids live nearby? If not, are you able to visit her often?
Two of my grand-daughters live very close, while one unfortunately lives out of state. No matter where my grand-daughters are, I try to see each of them just as much as I can! It’s important to see them and spend time with them. I never want to lose that bond we share, and I always want them to know how much I love them and want to spend time with them.
What are your favorite things to do with your grandchildren?
One of my favorite things to do is teach/play new games like tic tac toe, dominos, matching games, and puzzles. Games are so much fun, and we all enjoy them. We make lasting memories along with having a lot of laughs. I enjoy the girls showing me their skills and watching them have fun. Getting to do these things keeps me young at heart.
What do you hope your grandchildren remember most from their years with you?
I hope they will remember the warmth of our time together when we played, had heartfelt conversations, and enjoyed each other’s company. I hope they remember how much I love them and the joy they bring to my life. I hope they carry with them the sense of being cherished and valued and that the little traditions and memories we created together bring them comfort and happiness as they grow older.
They say becoming a grandparent is one thing in life that lives up to the hype. Would you agree and why?
Yes! There’s something extraordinary about how grandchildren bring a new sense of joy and purpose into your life. It is like reliving the best parts of parenting without the stress.
Bio: Diana Hemminger has been married to John Hemminger for 42 years. They have three grandchildren and two children: Christina and Jake. They live in Montgomery.
Kimberley Carter Spivey is a freelance writer, blogger, author, and entrepreneur. Her debut book Bloom: How to Get from Good Enough to a Life You Love can be purchased on Amazon and girlyouwrite.com.
