Superhero Gandmas

Every July offers the opportunity for a reunion at our Western Ohio happy place – Lake Lakengren. Located just outside of Eaton, Ohio, Lake Lakengren has been our family gathering spot for over 50 years. We’re well into our 4th generation of those who’ve coming to know “The Lake” as a place where memories become magic and fun reaches an exponential level. We were especially happy to welcome our Mississippi grandchildren back home. Their year-long stint in the Magnolia State is coming to a close, and it was a fulfilled dream to have them all back. I couldn’t wait to get in the water with my little ones who had changed so much, especially my almost 3-year-old Thomas. Needless to say, they were as exuberant as me to splish and splash about. We joined our extended family filled with reunion joy and made our way to the modest beach which provides the gateway to unleashed joy and fun.

We jumped in the water as the big boat waves came surging on the shore. Lake traffic in July is typically busy, but this year, the water felt especially excited; perhaps reflecting my delight in being able to frolic about with my little ones. We jumped in, and although I’m usually one of those squeamish water immersion types, I entered the water full throttle. We woo-hood and squealed with joy. The shore-lined water was filled with grandparents tending to their small treasures giving the young parents a respite from duty. I saw firsthand how much my grandkids had changed in a year with respect to water comfort, especially Thomas. Last year he had to be held in the water. This year, he was a crazy fish. Thank goodness for life jackets.

In my experience as a mother and now grandmother, I know when you combine unafraid with daredevil and weave those traits into an almost 3 year old, the sum of parts means trouble. Thomas had no fear of the big waves. In fact, he relished in the gusto. My job, however, was to make sure he was safe and secure.

“Thomas,” I said over and over again, “you cannot go past Nona!” My body became like the barrier reef of this western Ohio lake. Yet, I had two other swimmers in my charge, so the shift in safety checks became a bit of a challenge. Thomas’ goal to stealthily swim past me over and over again became a game; with that kind of devilish look that combines charm with edge. He loved the “big waves.” I recognized the look. His dad is my son, after all. Now, mind you, these were not dangerous waves, but the over protective grandmotherly worry kicked in. I needed eyes in the back of my head to keep track of three water bouncing kids.

And then, out of the blue, a superhero appeared to save the swim day. Who might that be? Well, another grandmother, of course. Georgia, my sister-in-law and grandmother of 4, recognized my slightly frantic charge to “keep eyes on,” and appeared in the water to help me make sure all were accounted for and above water. In reality, Georgia self-assigned herself to Thomas and I witnessed them laughing and giggling their way through wave boundaries. It was just so much fun, and I very much appreciated the second set of eyes for my crazy fish.

The very wet afternoon left me in reflection. I realized in watching Georgia, all grandparents have superhero powers, even with borrowed grandchildren. Corralling Thomas with her tickles, giggles and charming re-direction was a unique and charming art form spoken in a language we both understood. I loved the grand-hood (you know, like sister-hood) that she offered like a lifeline not only to Thomas, but to me as well.