How many children do you have?

I have 1 child, a daughter.

How many grandchildren?

2

What are their ages?

4 and 8

What do your grandchildren call you?

Mawmaw

After the initial elation, what was your first concern upon hearing you would soon be a grandmother?

My daughter's health.

How often do you get to see your grandchildren?

At least once a month.

What is the best thing about being a grandma?

I can spoil them, and not have to deal with the everyday parenting responsibilities.

What is the most challenging part of being a grandma?

Not interfering when they are being discipled.

Describe a recent time that one (or more) of your grandchildren made you laugh out loud.

That would be my granddaughter. She had her first Ballet Recital recently. They had all of the participants sitting on stage to receive awards. My granddaughter shielded her eyes from the light, and went in search of her family. Once she spotted us, she started blowing kisses and waving to us. Hilarious.

What is your favorite thing to do with grandchildren who visit your house?

Make zoo animal waffles or barnyard pancakes.

What is your favorite thing to do when visiting grandchildren at their house?

Make zoo animal waffles or barnyard pancakes. I take my waffle iron and molds with me.

What/where has been your favorite family vacation?

Myrtle Beach, SC

How do you maintain the bond between yourself and your grandchildren between visits?

We FaceTime or talk on the phone. At 4 and 8, they are technically savvy.

What do you most want to pass along to your grandchildren?

The importance of family.

What is one word you hope your grandkids think of when they think of you?

Loving

What is one thing you wish you had learned earlier as a grandparent?

How to say no. To be honest, I still haven't learned.  

What one bit of advice would you give a new grandma?

Remember that you're the grandmother not the mother. Don't try to override the parents and most importantly be careful when offering advice or don't criticize their parenting style.  

Is there anything else you would you like to add about being a grandmother?

Enjoy every minute of it. It's the best job in the world.

Do you have a website or blog? What is the URL and what is it about?

I have a blog, Mother 2 Mother. I share parenting, gardening and travel tips as well as printables for children. Additionally, I offer empowerment and confidence tips for mothers.

If you would like to be featured as a Grilled Grandma or know of a grandma whom you'd like to nominate to be grilled, please email me with the subject line GRILLED GRANDMA and include the grandma's name and email address. Thank you!