love – Page 4 – Jennifer's Journal

Ten Things My Grandchildren Taught Me

Published on May 5, 2015July 19, 2016 by J. Kelland Perry30 Comments

When most adults spend quality time with youngsters, they usually think of what they can share with them and teach them about life and the world around them.

While I spent a sizable chunk of April taking care of my two grandchildren, I did plenty of that, but – surprise, surprise – I also learned a few things about myself.

1. My addiction to jigsaw puzzles is alive and well. I had thought my love for putting them together (and the harder the better) had faded over the years, but helping and then pretty much taking over our grandson’s Skylander collection of puzzles turned out to be fun and surprisingly absorbing.

Screen+Shot+2015-01-07+at+10.28.45+AM — google.ca

2. It is actually possible for me to like a Justin Bieber song without being fond of the Biebs himself. My granddaughter feels the same way, so I know it’s entirely acceptable.

3. I’ve taken a shine to the Wii Just Dance video games. Great uptempo music, effective aerobic exercise, having fun like a kid with the kids – what’s not to love? And who cares what I look like bopping around with them?

4. I always thought I didn’t like Brussels sprouts, but turns out I do! They can be delicious when you don’t boil the sh*t out of them (sorry, Mom). Five to ten minutes with a dash of salt: perfection. Thanks for the tip, granddaughter! Would you believe she was the one who wanted me to buy them?

5. Apparently and according to my granddaughter, I smile whenever I check my appearance in the mirror. I had no idea, and she finds it “creepy”.

6. I believe five bucks is too generous a gift from the tooth fairy. I don’t care if she is an Immortal Guardian.

7. I no longer think there is anything wrong with wearing your pyjamas around the house all day – my grandson totally encourages it. I still draw the line at wearing them out in public. That’s a trend I will never embrace.

8. According to this little fellow, the skin on my neck is very soft and “crinkly”, and he won’t let me forget it…well, I am his grandma, after all.

9. I adore having the opportunity to indulge them. And such fun to live in the moment with them!
10. I am profoundly grateful for having these little people in my life to love.

What have children taught you about yourself?

“You’re Like Your Mom…”

Published on April 28, 2015January 17, 2016 by J. Kelland Perry21 Comments

During a conversation with my husband last week, he said, “You sounded just like your mom, the way you said that.”

This wasn’t the first time he made the observation. Along with the unmistakable signs that I have become “a woman of a certain age” (ack!), sounding like my mother seems to have become yet another aspect of my getting older.

“Hmm,” I replied. “I was always told I was like Dad and his side of the family.”

“You may look like your dad, but you have more of Carrie’s mannerisms lately,” he told me.

So, yes. I grudgingly have to admit that sometimes, when the words fly out of my mouth, or if I behave in a certain way, it makes me think I may be morphing into the woman who raised me. For example, if I defend myself when teased, it’s as if I am channeling Mom. “You proper fun-makers!” Or if I refuse to give in to someone else’s demands, the comeback that comes to my mind is “And I won’t dance to your pipes!” These are just a couple of the dear old “Mom-isms” from yesteryear.

And there’s so much more. I’ve adopted her quick laugh, as well as her sardonic humour and her no-nonsense way of handling whatever life brings. All showing up in my actions, the older I get.

There was a time, when I was much younger, that I would have taken issue and disagreed with such a comparison. The truth is, I have always thought while growing up that I turned after my father. Dad had always been my hero of sorts, and he was the parent I had always identified with and wished to emulate.

But now, I see that bearing a resemblance to my mother is a badge of honour and a cherished rite of passage. In fact, I’m realizing if I could only be half the woman she was, with her intelligent observations and her kind, fun-loving nature, I would be more than proud.

In a couple of weeks when Mother’s Day rolls around, I will be remembering my mother again for the lovely yet strong person she was, for the way she lived her life, and for each and every valuable lesson she taught me. And even though I continue to miss her every single day that goes by, I will give thanks that she is still showing up in my life in other, more subtle ways. And I will give a special thank you to the universe for giving me the dearest woman anyone ever called Mom.

Little Baker Then & Now

Published on March 3, 2015March 3, 2015 by J. Kelland Perry44 Comments

“If baking is any labor at all, it’s a labor of love. A love that gets passed from generation to generation.”
~ Regina Brett

♥

Our little baker girl at two years old:

**“It’s a good thing you gave me this apron, Nanny.”**

♥
♥
♥

And here she is at nine years. Where has the time gone?

11052547_10153041648290395_6138174624025364131_n — **“Wearing my new apron from Auntie Lynn. Please don’t mind my photobombing brother.”**

Our boy is turning SEVEN on Saturday.
Can’t wait to see you on the weekend, my treasures. xo

❤

“Grandchildren are one of the sweetest rewards for raising a family.”
~ J. Kelland Perry

❤

Weekly Photo Challenge: Reward

What does reward mean to you?

A Valentine from Vivian

Published on February 14, 2015February 14, 2019 by J. Kelland Perry22 Comments

I know you may think
that I look kind of lazy
But not every day
I’m as fresh as a daisy

Precious few are so perfect
to wear halos above us
So we look past the faults
of who we love and who love us

Like where did this dog toy
come from, we inquire
When there are gorgeous kitty cats
here to admire?

But I won’t dwell on that,
just an oversight, maybe
I’ll forgive and forget
and not act like a baby

And we won’t envy Jennifer
with her life that’s just ducky
‘Cause we know of a time
when she wasn’t so lucky

So don’t be concerned
if you haven’t seen Cupid
Don’t be down on romance
because that would be stupid

Just realize your True Love
may not be that far
And besides,
you are wonderful
just as you are!

If you still find you’re sad
and alone on this day
Take a look at our cuteness
to chase troubles away

And please, pretty please,
know we love you like crazy
Happy Valentine kisses
from me and from Maisie. ❤

The Daily Post Prompt:
Cupid’s Arrow – Write an ode to someone or something you love. Bonus points for poetry!

My One and Only

Published on August 15, 2014August 15, 2014 by J. Kelland Perry29 Comments

In everyone’s life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit. ~ Albert Schweitzer

Nearly twenty years ago, I met my person. He came into my life at a time my “inner fire” had gone out, at a time I didn’t think I would ever be truly happy again. He gave me back my smile, made me believe in myself, and has been my best friend ever since.

Sixteen years ago today, I married him.

Thank you, Paul, for everything you do for me, everything you mean to me, and everything you are. I love you. Happy Anniversary to the man who rekindled my inner spirit and will always be the love of my life.

Do you have a special person in your life you are grateful for?

* Friday Bouquet will return next week

Endearing

Published on August 11, 2014August 11, 2014 by J. Kelland Perry24 Comments

Happy Monday, everyone. Here are a few images that made me smile with affection last week:

When she can’t be in her master’s lap, Vivian will take possession of an article of clothing or anything that smells like him – even his sandal. Nice fit.

My grandchildren, captured in slumber about six years ago.

Nico before his haircut…
…and after. He is like a different dog!

What endearing images have caught your attention recently?

Sweet Daughter

Published on June 14, 2014January 17, 2016 by J. Kelland Perry18 Comments

My One-Year-Old Daughter and Me

Denise was born on a beautiful sunny day, just like today. She decided to show up three weeks before her due date of July 6th. Born at Carbonear Hospital, she was the smallest baby there at the time, weighing a dainty five pounds, seven ounces.
My life as a very young mother had begun!

Denise at Six Years Old

Denise was a happy child, but she was also softhearted, intelligent, and focused.

Bachelor of Nursing Graduate

She always worked hard to realize her goals.

Her Beautiful Family

Happy Birthday, Denise! I am so proud of you, and can’t imagine my life without you in it!
Love Mom ❤

On Mother’s Day and Always

Published on May 10, 2014May 11, 2014 by J. Kelland Perry14 Comments

Mom,

I miss you when I’m happy
I miss you when I’m sad
but I’m forever grateful for
the precious time we had.

On Mother’s Day, as always
I’ll think of you in prayer
’cause if there is a heaven
I know that you are there.

❤

“…even when I can’t see you anymore”

Published on May 6, 2014August 23, 2014 by J. Kelland Perry21 Comments

I’m away from home this week, lending a hand with my daughter’s children while their regular sitter is on vacation. This morning while I was waiting for the kindergarten school bus with my six-year-old grandson, we had this conversation:

“J, why are you so cute?”

He smiled a little smile and said, “That’s what my mom always asks me.”

“Are you going to love Nanny even when she’s an old, old granny?”

He looked at me. “Yes. And I’ll love you even when you go away forever and I can’t see you anymore.”

With those words, I felt an abrupt squeeze around my heart. I think it broke a little.

I realized, since he and his sister had already lost one grandparent, this was a part of life he now expected.