What does it feel like to be a Grandpa?

That question comes up a lot lately. Jeff and Tiff invited us to join them at a parenting seminar at their church this past weekend. Gayle and I naturally agreed along with Tiff’s mom. The first thing we noticed was that there were a ton of kids running around and a lot of pregnant mothers. I guess there is no fear of the next generation withering away.

The second most obvious observation was that we were the only grandparents there. All others our age were church members assisting in the running of the program. It didn’t take much for people to figure out we were not parents of young children.

So how does it feel to be a grandparent?

One: the equipment and methods have changed. Cribs with drop down sides are outlawed. Strollers are multifunction (they even have built in cup holders) and multi, multi dollared. There are changing tables in every men’s public restrooms. And don’t even think about using an old car seat from the garage.

Two: You get this urge to purchase all kinds of stuff. I almost bought a Boston Celtic Musical Baby Crib Mobile off of Amazon. I did buy a Batz Maru (Sanrio’s attempt to duplicate the Hello Kitty for boys) stuffed animal when shopping at Marukai. Most of the stuff I would buy is more for when he is older. Little tykes slides, tables, cars, etc. And yes, I did get him his first basketball.

Three: I stare at this kid in wonderment. He amazes me that he exists and that I am alive to see him. He is actually part me. It is verified that he did not inherit the Wada eyebrows, but somewhere buried in Cam’s persona, there is a bit of me. Scary yet exciting.

Four: Whenever I see him, I smile.

Five: I look forward to more grandkids from the three boys, in their time.