A Beautiful Day

Today we had Grandparents Day and Veterans Day at school. We celebrate grandparents in the morning with a special chapel and lunch, and then we end the day with a program for the veterans and fellowship.

I'm finding that the more stressful and exhausting the prep for something is, the more awesome it feels when it's finished and everyone is leaving with a smile on. But seriously, it's a rush of overwhelming joy when you know that people have sincerely enjoyed something together and that your kiddos have had a part in bringing joy to people.

And it's a rush of joy to see the contentment and excitement on those little faces when they know they have made other people feel so special. I think one of the most important things I want my little dears to know is at least an inkling of how much power they have to impact someone else.

Today I was overwhelmed at how beautiful it is when two worlds collide. Here were all of these young and old people spending the day together, and watching them laugh and beam with pride all day long was amazing. There were even a few brave souls who played with their grandchildren outside at recess.

I know the pride of seeing my students be absolutely awesome at something and feel that pride bring a sense of happiness that radiates through my entire being and make me fight back tears. Today I realized that feeling must be so much stronger as a parent, but it must be magnified when you are a grandparent watching your grandchild.

And oh, these kids adore their grandparents. I love seeing them light up when they are with their grandparents. I get it though. I mean, don't get me wrong, I love my parents, and I know my kids love their parents, too, but there really is no substitute for grandparents. It's a whole different kind of comfort and happiness spending time with grandparents you adore. I can't pinpoint why, but I can sure appreciate it.

Family is definitely a gift from God and a reflection of the unending love He has for us...and that is the most beautiful and remarkable thing. Today I was blessed to get a true glimpse of the beauty of that love...and it has left my heart overflowing.