The time is almost here! We have been anticipating our first “grand” for well…9 months. It’s really hard to believe that so many years have gone by since meeting that darling little 11-year-old in the purple sweater for the first time. And now, my husband’s “baby” is having a baby! I never even thought seriously about being a grandmother. And, I have to say I’m not really crazy about the word. So, as many have done before, I’ve adopted another moniker. I will be “Nana Pattie.” But, I have a feeling that when a certain little boy bursts on the scene, I won’t care what he calls me.

As I’ve spoken with women in the past few years, they tell me about their absolute delight in their “grands.” They just glow!

We’re hitting the road for the big event and we just can’t wait. It, of course, is tinged with concern. And, we will both breathe a sigh of relief when mommy and baby are snuggled in each other’s arms…safe and secure.

Daddy will be on duty in the delivery room. But, we’ll be cutting a groove in the floor pacing where thousands of other expectant grandparents have paced before. Boy, this is when I wished I could knit or do something with my hands. Any suggestions?

(No, the baby in the photo isn’t “ours")