Allison and Meme

One of the blessings of our older years is the being known as a grandchild. Although she is not mine by blood, she is certainly by heart - Allison, my stepson's and his wife's daughter. What a delight in my and Terry's life! To her, I am Meme and he is Grandpa Choo-choo (She named him that because of his love of trains, of course.) Because we have entered the world of retirement, we now have more time to have her visit from out-of-state. Recently, Allison and her parents stayed with us for a couple of days. What fun to see life through the eyes of a five year old. Her unbridled enthusiasm over the exhibits at Mystic Aquarium was contagious.She was absolutely thrilled to be able to pet sharks, feed birds perching on her arm and watch a 4-D movie about Sponge Bob.
But it is her kind and gentle nature that is even more endearing. Allison prides herself on being my best helper, setting the table, preparing dishes and cleaning up afterward - she loves doing chores. (I expect by 12 or 13, that thrill may be gone.) Allie has such a generous spirit, looking out for other people and enjoying their happiness - even if it means things like giving up the soccer ball to the opponent and cheering them on! (She'll learn)
It was my pleasant task getting Allison ready for bed during her visit. A bedtime story, a song and lights out. As we said good- night, she said, "Meme, you have a beautiful face".  Only from a grandchild...but, I will suggest to her parents that they get her eyes checked!
This week this dear child will begin kindergarten; she is beyond excited. Now comes the exposure to a bigger world and the the opportunity to learn "a bunch of new stuff", not the least of which will come from riding the school bus! Terry and I will be there to see her off the first day and watch her wave to us
as she takes off on this new adventure.