Way back in December, these two lovely grandmothers and one quiet grandfather gave my family a wonderful gift: one magical day at Disneyland. When I opened that present, I cried. Disneyland is an hour and a half from our home, but it might as well be on the other side of the country as such an extravagant day is not just not possible right now.
So, our fairy grandparents made it all possible. I really think they might have magic wands tucked into their purses! After looking at all the data available concerning crowds and temperatures, (both are very important, you know) we settled on the second week of May, Wednesday. Of course, it seemed to take forever for May to arrive and then, all of a sudden, it was here. With great excitement, we all packed and planned and prepared. We arrived with a careful itinerary and then realized that it was not even necessary as Disneyland was not crowded and not hot. Hurray!
This small troop of children rode every exciting ride twice, ate an enormous amount of BBQ'd ribs and chicken, stayed until the park literally closed around us.
Oh, it was so much fun and such a positively perfect day.
It turns out that my little boys are speed loving daredevils. Who saw that one coming?
And Nanna loves roller coasters, too. She made sure that all the thrilling rides were hit at least twice.
Marie Claire simply enjoyed all the hustle and bustle, the color and movement.
Great Grandma Ricky was amazing. How many 80+ year old women go to Disneyland with seven children and stay until the park closes? Just amazing!
The only hiccup in our day was Xavier's fever. Fortunately, I had a bottle of Tylenol in my Mary Poppins Carpet Bag. Every time his eyes would start to glaze over, I'd just squirt in another dose. He was a trooper until the end when he curled up with Grandma Ricky and went to sleep.
This little series of pictures with Tigger and Pooh was due to the tenacity of one little boy and the patient indulgence of his Nanna. Xavier was enamored with these guys and wanted a hug. So, Nanna stood in line for, oh about 45 minutes with him. Very patiently, they inched their way toward those enormous characters. I thought he would bolt once they were up close, but no; he stood for a hug, high five, and photo. Marie Claire doesn't remember her close encounter, however I have the pictures to prove that she has been kissed by a bear.
After this incredible day and our recent trip to the Del Mar Fair with a different grandfather, I have been musing over the great gift of grandparents. Each one has shared their time, talents, and treasures with us. They have been role models of patience and sacrifice and joviality. And while they may shake their heads in gentle bemusement at the announcement of each new addition, the babies are welcomed with joy and fanfare. Their love is boundless.
My little family has been so blessed, so very blessed.
Thank you.
From Pope Benedict's Prayer for Grandparents:
Lord Jesus,
help families and society
to value the presence and roles of grandparents.
May they never be ignored or excluded,
but always encounter respect and love.
Help them to live serenely and to feel welcomed
in all the years of life which you give them.
Mary, Mother of all the living,
keep grandparents constantly in your care,
accompany them on their earthly pilgrimage,
and by your prayers, grant that all families
may one day be reunited in our heavenly homeland,
where you await all humanity
for the great embrace of live without end. Amen!
help families and society
to value the presence and roles of grandparents.
May they never be ignored or excluded,
but always encounter respect and love.
Help them to live serenely and to feel welcomed
in all the years of life which you give them.
Mary, Mother of all the living,
keep grandparents constantly in your care,
accompany them on their earthly pilgrimage,
and by your prayers, grant that all families
may one day be reunited in our heavenly homeland,
where you await all humanity
for the great embrace of live without end. Amen!
