As I await the impending birth of my granddaughter, I can’t help but think about my Mom and Dad, the precursors of this little girl. My mom died when she was 49 and I was 30; my Dad passed away four years ago at 80. I can’t help wondering about the attributes my Mom might contribute…her hazel eyes (probably not, recessive genes rarely rise to the top), her writing skills, which my daughter, son and I value so much, or her nurturing nature. Perhaps Maya will inherit my father’s height (which saved my son from being 5’5”), his striking good looks and athletic ability. (Although my son has his own share of these qualities and might claim credit if Maya becomes a gorgeous jock). It doesn’t really matter. She will be her own person, possessing her own qualities and talents. But there is a sweetness to reflecting on the legacy of my parents. I, like most people I know am addicted to multi-tasking and to-do lists. I don’t often stop to think about my parents. This time of waiting has opened up space for mindfulness. It’s kind of surreal watching the past morph into the future.
This is so sweet. i hope she does wind up with hazel eyes- those would be beautiful. Didn’t know your mom had them. Glad that Maya is helping to bring full circle, your connection with your mom and dad!
Congrats on your new granddaughter! What a special moment that will be! And, boy, do you look like your mother!
Thank you so much, Bess.
What fun it is to wonder what traits the next generation will have! Wishing you and yours all the best!
Instead of going to church this morning, baaad Suzi, I am basking in Facebook comments about the pictures I posted from our Firday night fete! I nursed a very bad hangover yesterday and babied myself all day when I shoulda been getting stuff done. What stuff? Who knows?? Anyway, I’m selfishly continuing that mode into today, and indulged in catching up on other people’s FB posts. I went thru your blog and just read this one about your parents and it is so sweet, and so very meaningful on so many levels. And the pictures, your mom & dad are very good looking people. I see your eyes in your dad, and everything else in your beautiful mom. It is a mystery how bits of our selves are carried forward generation to generation, and, in spite of my inborn cynicism (thanks dad!) familial traits and love does seem to be a spiritual thing. One more thought, Maya’s arrival is such a joy for all of us, like me being a new gramma all over again. And there just isn’t anything better than that! xoxoxoxoxo