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I was asked to write some thoughts about being a great grandmother. Initially I have to say that my body and mind do not equate with the reality. I truly count my blessings and have so much for which I am thankful. At this stage in my life, I do not see myself as a mother to my children. They seem more to be my friends. My grandchildren and now my great grandchild bring youth, vitality and a new kind of love to my life.

I have always told my family that I feel that I am living my life backwards. I claim that when I was 20 I was more like 40 and at 40 I felt as if I was 20. I married early, at the age of 18, and had my first child at 20. By 23, I was the mother of three children. Sure, it was difficult, but on the other hand I found that two and three children were sometimes easier than one because they could amuse one another. I do not want to sound as if I am ‘Pollyannish.’ I always try to see the glass as half full. It must be said that there were times of grief, frustration and being overwhelmed. In the end the positive was overwhelming and comforting.

I was a school teacher while they were growing up. Teaching seemed to help make me a better mother. I know for sure that my children taught me so much that helped me to be a better teacher. I remember one young student who was a bit of a ‘scallywag.’ He was always mischievous. He reminded me so much of my second son. I told him I had a son just like him and he is now so successful. Truthfully I never had problems after that. I would often see students that were so needy and lacking in love with their family. It drew me closer to my children. I found that when I returned home from work I wanted to hug them and hold them closer. I became more patient and understanding with both the students and my own children.

I can’t begin to describe the excitement and passion I enjoy in being a grandmother. It gives me a second chance to do things I was unable to do for my children. It is a love that surpasses anything I have known. Before I knew it, I was a grandmother of seven children. I have watched and enjoyed them growing up. I have been proud of all their accomplishments. Graduations came and went. Two are now married. I have the thrill of attending the fantastic jazz performances of my guitar-playing grandson. It is a rare pleasure to be able to sit at the same table sharing a bottle of wine and enjoying a fine dinner with my 26-year-old grandson. I am amazed at the conversations we enjoy. No topic is off the list.

At first, I found it hard to accept the concept that I was about to be a great grandmother. My granddaughter and her husband have been married for several years so it was anticipated. They live in Israel so we keep in contact with photos over the computer, e-mail and phone calls. I took a trip to Israel when the baby was due to be born. To be present for the birth was a new, exciting and emotional experience. I saw the baby moments after birth. I was able to hold the baby. My daughter, granddaughter, new baby and I are now in a four-generation picture. We had a large party to celebrate this meaningful occasion.

I can’t help but think how different things are from when I grew up. I loved my grandmother but it was always a formal occasion. I wouldn’t have ever thought to have an intimate discussion with my parents. I love the year 2008. I have the best of all worlds. I attend a yoga or Pilates class six days a week. I am studying Spanish and Italian. I write weekly reviews of movies and restaurants. I feel alive and well and so grateful for all my blessings that I am able to enjoy. Grandparents and even great grandparents have a different role today. It seems to me as if we are closer and can participate in more activities. We can discuss any topic. We can enjoy and respect each other.

I always say that age is just a number. If you are the youngest or oldest in any family you are what you feel and what you make of yourself.