Up at 5 a.m. and out for a short run. Swim. Write. Trying to stay quiet so I don’t wake everyone up. I feel like I should be rushing to catch a flight, but I’m doing this to take a morning shift with the grandkids. Originally, it was going to be a couple of hours but now a half-day. I’m not very good at this – not sure how to keep them entertained? I know it’s just two little girls – how much trouble could that be? In all fairness, having lived so far apart for all these years there’s yet to form a comfortable relationship. It will also be a long day with an evening drive down to Punta Gorda for Date Night at Carmelo’s. Up early…out late…far from routine. 

The other grandparents take their turn – more than their share. Certainly, I’ll get better at this as time goes on because practice makes perfect. The youngest is three and her sister twelve, practically a teenager. I seem to be afraid of kids, reluctant to pick up a new born. However, I did feed my nine-month old great niece last weekend, but she too was wary. I’ve only had one instant bonding moment with a child and that was a great nephew in my role as GUM (Great Uncle Mike). He was drawn to me for some reason, but sadly I won’t probably see him again for years. 

Everything is shorted this morning, including this post. I have to get ready for what will surely be the longest four hours I’ve ever spent. It’s only a twenty minute drive to my son’s house, as I’ll look forward to the drive back, after my sitting duties are complete. Others look forward to time with their grandchildren, but if I’m being completely honest, I’ve yet to get to that point and feel guilty for my current shortcomings as The Sitter.