I have a unique opportunity as a mother of two young children and step-mom to two college students. Not only am I navigating the toddler trenches, I’m fortunate to play a supporting role in the lives of Dave’s daughters transitioning to adulthood. I am dead-tired today because last night I was on the phone with my oldest step-daughter, Taylor, for nearly two hours AFTER the 10pm news. She is a senior in college with a 3.8 GPA. It has been an honor for me to help with her class papers and take-home exams on her path to academic success. That’s one skill I excel in and enjoy, editing. So it’s great to be able to assist her and, in the process, talk with her on a regular basis. Our conversation last night covered a lot of very personal ground. We talked about her life as a child of divorced parents, how much satisfaction she derives from excelling in her courses and her passion for social services as she preps to enter the real world. I am so proud of her and her sister, Lauren. They didn’t let their parents’ divorce or subsequent break-up of their mom’s second marriage define them. Both have seemingly avoided the path of drugs and diversions in favor of staying in school and pursuing college degrees. I told Taylor last night dating her dad all those years gave me the rare chance to see my now husband in action as a father. That is one plus of being with a man who has children. I knew he would be great with mine based on his performance with his own. One scary thought… Taylor turns 22 next week. Which means should she choose to marry and have children in the next few years, she would make me a grandma when I’ve barely reached 40. Yikes!
Posted under Baby Thomas: Month 15
This post was written by tthomas on October 29, 2009
Ah…there’s nothing wrong about being a “young” Grandma…I had just turned 42 when I became a Grandma and I think there is much advantage of that. Actually I think my Granddaughter enjoys the energy level I still have and I appreciate it very much too! You think kids wear you out, WAIT! The worries certainly don’t go away either, I think they multiply.
Wonderful picture and so nice that you have a great relationship.
My husband is from a divorced family, and we made his stepfather a grandpa at the age of 39. Let me tell you, the energy he has to play with our daughters is wonderful! So, if that does happen, know that you will be a hip young grandma!
As a side note, I thoroughly enjoy reading your blog every day. I have children the same ages as yours, and it is refreshing to hear you going through the same trials and tribulations we are having in our own home!
Nice story. I’m 56 and still not a grandmother. If you get to be a “young” grandmother, consider yourself very lucky.
Do you know how truly special it is that Dave’s daughters consider you family and not an adversary? Dave obviously raised his girls well and it’s wonderful that they can relate to you on this level. Regarding becoming a grandmother….enjoy being a mom and step-mom and let the grandmother happen when it will. The way you embrace your roles as mom and step-mom, you’ll be great at the next level too.
This is wierd Tara…your step-daughter resembles you!!!! No one would know she is a “step”!! You are both lovely young women!
My grandmother and my mother both were grandmas before 40! My grandmother didn’t like being labeled a “grandma” at such a young age so she came up with the nickname “Mama Dot” - her real name was Darrace or Dot for short! I am now the age they were when they became grandmas and that seems so weird being I have a 2 year old at home!
I agree with Judy about you and your step-daughter looking alike. I was thinking the same thing. But then you and Dave have the same shape faces and your coloring matches Taylor’s as well. If grandkids come sooner rather than later, they will have the benefit of a young grandma!! And give the girls time to enjoy their lives before kids, as you did. And don’t let negative comments get to you. I enjoy reading your blog and it brings back many memories of my kids growing up.
My mother was a grandmother three months before I was born. I have a sister 20 years old than I am. My mother was 40 when I was born.
I am 27 years old and carry the title Grandma and I love it! I most enjoy the look on peoples faces when they hear my 20 year old son say mom or someone refer to me as grandma while referring to the point of that precious 14 month old…… I adopted children out of the foster care system, obviously not enough gap in age to have actually given birth but my heart knows no differently.
What a beautiful photo of you two. I agree with others that you resemble each other. What a sweet story of a blended family. You are so blessed and a great example to others! Thank you!
P.S. Your hair looks stunning with a little curl like that- never seen it before.
Did anyone ever tell you that you resemble Jenna Elfman? I think the curl in your hair makes in more obvious. I just started reading your blog, and it sounds like things that are happening in my house are also happening in yours. Thanks for sharing!
As I was saying….
While I was reading your blog and checking out Mr. Food on the KWWL website, my 2-year-old was applying his 11-year-old sister’s lip gloss. I guess when the house is quiet, the little ones are always up to something.