Grandparenting begins
with parenting,
but parenting doesn’t end
with grandparenting.

The constant needs of toddlers,
to the sass and angst of junior high,
and the eye-rolling or still-a-kidness of teens
gives way to young adults
who know all the right ways to do things.

Consistent adulting takes its toll,
on your grownup kids,
and parents help fill the gaps,
while grandparenting takes on
a flavor of delight
as your presence is wanted
and considered one of the gifts
you always bring with you.

Parenting is never done,
but it undergoes great changes:
you do things their way,
give opinions when asked,
let them pay for lunch sometimes,
and add their traditions to holiday gatherings.

Yes, parenting is never done,
and sometimes it requires a hug.
Other times an intervention,
or help in a crisis.
It’s a giving up of your plans for the day,
the week, the month.
It’s seeing the opportunity to love
in just the way that’s needed at this moment.

Parenting never ends.

Kathleen Evenhouse, April 11, 2025