Three!!!

"When a baby is born, so is a grandmother." 

Three years ago today when this little boy, the firstborn of our firstborn, came into our family, I became Gran Jan... This blog, Gran Jan's Joy, was born out of our family's journey of faith as we waited on God. The first post I ever wrote, Waiting Room, tells part of the story. Zeke, whose name Ezekiel means "God strengthens" was a much prayed for and anticipated child. Here he is at just 15 minutes old. That is my son's hand on his little head. I should have known Zeke was going to be a character from the look of that little "peep eye." He was already checking us out, afraid he was missing some action. Oh if he only knew, he WAS the action!

I picked the name Gran Jan a long time ago, before my boys were even married. I have a special friend who is Gran Sharon, and I told her that one day I would be "Gran Jan," and so I kept that name close at heart all these years. Little did I know how special it would be. When we locked eyes on this little fellow, everything changed...I was officially Gran Jan!

This picture is very special to me. Jeremy had put on Zeke's first diaper in the baby nursery at the hospital. I looked up just in time to see my son bending over to kiss the top of his son's head.  Be still my heart.

I call this picture "In Granddaddy's Arms." My husband was talking and Zeke was listening to every single word and did not take his eyes off his Pop! 

These special memories resonate in my heart today as we celebrate Zeke's birthday and I celebrate my JOY in becoming Gran Jan. We have two more miracles now, Zeke's little sister, Madie Ruth, and our youngest grandson, Jackson. They are both 15 months old, and  are absolutely the greatest joys of our lives. I count my blessings in threes.

Your relationship with your children changes when they become parents themselves. I remember thinking how much more I loved and respected my own mom and dad when I became a mom...the circle of life indeed.  Our sons and daughters-in-law are great parents and I couldn't be more blessed and proud of them.

Happy Birthday to you Zeke, you are truly Gran Jan's JOY.  Thank you for opening up a part of my heart that I had no idea existed. I feel as if I have been given a second chance on being a mom, a mom with lots more practice...a grandmom.  I've read that grandmothers are mothers come into the fullness of their grace.  Perhaps. I just know this...I love you three grandchildren with all my heart, and I promise as long as God gives me breath I will be there for all of you, for you are Gran Jan's JOY, and the joy of the Lord is my strength. 

Three years of Zeke's life...

Three years as Gran Jan...

Three little grandchildren..

Thankful,