Welcome to a place where we can share ideas about grandparenting, especially ways to pass spiritual values and family stories to the next generation.

Mary is the co-author of The Grandparent Connection: 365 Ways to Connect With Your Grandchild's Heart.
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Co-author of The Grandparent Connection: 365 Ways to Connect With Your Grandchild's Heart

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

The innocence of a grandchild

Tuesday's Grand Connection Thought



Not too long ago, two of the grands and I had a wonderful time enjoying a gorgeous spring day outside. On that particular day there was a lot of stress in the world. Of course, Pops' and my little grands were totally oblivious to this. And that afternoon, so was I.

While the kids were sitting on some concrete steps, our three-year-old grandson waved in the air as a bird flew by. "Hi, Cindy!" he said in all sincerity.

Then big sister piped in, "I think Cindy's husband is over there."

Last year a bird had built a nest in their yard, and the kids called the mama bird "Cindy." I've seen them wave to Cindy before, but somehow on this particular Friday it seemed extra precious.

Have you experienced a moment like this—when the stresses in life were overshadowed by the innocence of a child?

I'm reminded of what Jesus said in Luke 18:16, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these."

He is able,
Mary


©  Mary May Larmoyeux. All rights reserved.
Photo © by Designpicsub / Dreamstime.com

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Limited time but lasting lesson


Recently Pops and I were reading a devotion in the April 2012 issue of In Touch magazine. The writer said that although he wasn't able to spend much time with his grandfather, his grandfather had made a huge impact on his life.

"I clearly recall my one-week visit at his home," he said. "He listened to me and shared what was going on in his life. During that time, he gave me several principles by which to live, and they've affected my whole life. The lessons he taught me sitting on his back porch come out in almost every sermon I write."

Three of our grandchildren recently moved to another state, and this man's words really encourage me. Although Pops and I can no longer spend regular one-on-one time with these grands, we can still be used by God to engrave His principles on their hearts.

If you have long-distance grandkids, how do you instill godly principles in their lives? Anne Dierks has what she calls Granny Camp each year for her grands.

Even when I am old and gray,
do not forsake me, my God,
till I declare your power to the next generation,
your mighty acts to all who are to come.—Psalm 71:18

Have a great week,
Mary
Mary May Larmoyeux
Article © 2012 by Mary May Larmoyeux. All rights reserved.
Photo © Monkey Business Images / Dreamstime.com