Shortly after my first grandchild, Robin, was born, I received heartwarming feedback from both my daughter and son about my level of involvement with the baby. My daughter expressed surprise at my strong connection with Robin, while my son humorously commented on my overwhelming love for her.
Becoming a grandfather has been a deeply moving experience for me. Witnessing my own children embrace parenthood, combined with the arrival of a grandchild, has filled me with an intense desire to protect and cherish little Robin.
When Robin entered the world, she was smaller than expected, struggling with reflux and weight gain. Despite her size, she brought immense joy to our lives. Living in London, I made it a priority to visit my daughter and Robin, taking daily walks in Richmond Park to give them a break.
Using technology like Zoom and Facebook video calls, I maintained a connection with Robin and her parents. These virtual interactions helped bridge the physical distance and allowed me to stay involved in Robin’s early days.
Grandad Goals
Reflecting on my grandfather role, I established three key goals: sharing my passions with Robin, offering support to her parents, and providing financial assistance when possible. These goals were inspired by the gratitude and joy I feel in being a grandfather.
As Robin and I continue to bond and grow, I find myself embracing a more playful side, creating videos to amuse my family and relishing the moments of laughter. Robin has brought a renewed sense of purpose to my life, encouraging me to prioritize health and environmental consciousness.
Life with Grandfather
As I navigate the nuances of grandparenthood, I recognize the importance of respecting boundaries and avoiding the temptation to spoil Robin. While it may be tempting to rely on the “give them back to their parents” mantra when tired, the love shared with grandchildren is a magical bond that transcends fatigue.
YOUR TURN
What cherished memories do you hold of fatherhood or grandfatherhood? Share your stories in the comments!
Michael J. Tougias, a bestselling author, delves into the joys and challenges of grandparenthood. His latest book, “Extreme Survival: Lessons From Those Who Have Triumphed Against All Odds,” explores the resilience of the human spirit. Connect with Michael at www.michaeltougias.com.
