Working Grandparents Corner

**Helping the Kids: A Grandparent’s Joy**

One of the most rewarding things I do for my grown kids is picking up the grandchild from daycare. I do this two days a week. It’s like my version of winning the lottery! I look ahead to those days beyond words. It’s as if they are marked on my calendar in bright neon colors! The moment that tiny little bundle of energy is in my arms, the stress of work just evaporates like magic. I must confess. When I first embraced my thrilling new role as the official daycare chauffeur, I felt excited. It felt like I had just signed up for an extreme sport! I remember cheerfully chanting to myself, “Make sure the car seat straps are snug and secure!” because nothing says ‘grandparent of the year’ like ensuring safety while wrangling a mini tornado!

It’s funny how something that seems so simple can feel like such a huge responsibility. I mean, I raised two kids myself! I know what I’m doing! So why does the thought of transporting this precious little life from daycare to home send my heart racing? It’s a mix of love, joy, and, yes, a sprinkle of anxiety.

**DAY 1:**

I must take off my shoes before entering the daycare room. I also need to have a pair of socks on my feet. Well, it sounds easy. But, did I wear slip-on shoes? Nope!

As I leave the daycare room, I have a grandchild in my arms. In my other hand, there’s a bag of bottles. I’m staring at my shoes on the floor. Clearly, I can’t place them on my feet easily. CRAP!!!!!!!

I look around the hallway – None in sight! I kicked the shoes along the hallway until I reached the car seat area.
That was not as easy as I thought, because part of floor had wet spots so my feet got wet