Grace Elizabeth is Five Today

I have two grandchildren by my oldest daughter, Cara, whose birthdays are ‘special’ in their own way. The oldest sibling, Grace Elizabeth, was born on a Friday the thirteenth. I remember the excitement of her birth and the long wait to see her and my daughter after the birth. As a nurse, I recall being concerned that it seemed to take an unusually long time to get mom and baby presentable for the welcoming committee, however, all ended well.

My grandson, Grace’s baby brother, was born one year after her birth on the fourth of July. Rest assured, there were plenty of fireworks to celebrate the occasion. He is six now and quite the family clown…I can only imagine what a cut up he’ll be in school.

Because I cannot always be in Michigan to celebrate family birthdays, and other special occasions, our family Skype's or uses Face Time. Thank goodness for modern technology. I still get to meet with them face to face to share in their special festivities.

When she turned five, I wrote her a poem. I also gave her a camera for her budding photography interests-a pink camera, which is her favorite color. I know it sounds like an expensive gift for a five year old, but I have seen the photos she’s taken and she is very good.

In 2014, Grace asked me to come to MI for her next birthday; she will be turning eight this year. I made a conscientious decision to do this by requesting that weekend off from work. Next, I shared this information with my daughter, who will coordinate the birthday celebration. We both agreed to keep my arrival a secret for two reasons: 1. Flight weather in winter can be very precarious. On more than one occasion I've arrived at the airport only to discover the flight had been cancelled. 2. The second reason is for the element of surprise.

For the past three years I've enjoyed watching all of my grandchildren grow in size, facial appearance, lose their baby look, lose their teeth...through visits and photos, as well as Skype. It is amazing how quickly changes happen when you live at a distance.

Pink is still Grace's favorite color, and I found a pink necklace with 'Grace' spelled out in purple. I have not decided if I will make birthday cupcakes or buy a cake, but am sure either will be appreciated.

She is now in second grade and is a sharp student. Her grades are high, she is a good listener, and she eagerly helps her classmates when they are stuck getting a concept.

Grace is a very busy girl, these days, taking after school classes, studying for her First Communion, and participating as a Brownie with the Girl Scouts. She's a real smart G.S. cookie!

Here is the acrostic poem I wrote for my granddaughter, Grace Elizabeth, when she turned five years old. An acrostic poem can be similar to a word puzzle with a letter or letters from each line spelling a word or phrase.

Grace Elizabeth is Five Today

Grace was born in January,

Rosy cheeks, she’s smart and sweet.

At five she dresses up like a fairy

Creating magic with whomever she meets.

Everyone agrees she’s a real treat.

Expect great things from Princess Grace.

Laughter and love from her come naturally.

I think she has an angel’s face.

Zest and zeal flow easily.

And little Alex joins in the fun.

Birthdays are a way to celebrate

Every way Grace is special to me.

Truly a miracle God did create…

Happy Birthday, Dear One, from Grandma Dee.