
My second grandson was born in September, nine months after my first. The year of 2019 has been a big change for me as I step into this new role. Juggling two daughters requests for babysitting got a bit tricky around the holidays. Luckily it worked out that Maggie wanted New Year’s Eve and Katherine the Saturday after.
On Friday I traveled to New Orleans after an all day rain storm. The drive into the city is beautiful as the highway is bordered by swampland. I can often see herons or egrets soaring above. This time, however, I noticed the multi-color clouds on the horizon. As the sun set, a bright red rainbow appeared. I aimed my phone camera and took this picture.

Julieanne Harmatz, fellow blogger from L. A., was vacationing with her husband, so we met up for a lovely dinner. On Saturday, we met at the City Park sculpture garden where there is a new Cafe Du Monde. (Beignets are a must-have on any trip to New Orleans.) By this time, I was in total charge of grandson Thomas. He was the perfect host, smiling and cooing right on cue. Julieanne took this picture of us in the Sculpture Garden.

I’m learning once again (it’s been 29 years since I had a baby) how to juggle a diaper bag, bottles, stroller and carseat, and all that goes along with caring for a baby. Even with the monitor right next to my bed, I wasn’t able to sleep Saturday night. Thomas slept just fine. I wouldn’t exchange that loving smile for anything. Being a grandma is pure joy!
Margaret, you are so right that being a Grandma is pure joy! Enjoy every bit of Thomas’ sweet smile and Leo’s. They will bring multitudes of happy times into your life. Tomorrow is the big day that we travel to Virginia to take care of Sierra while Little Baby is coming into the world. The inducement starts at 9 pm and we are excited. Prayers are being lifted for a calm entry into the world.
Carol, how exciting! I look forward to hearing about the new baby. This is such an amazing blessing!
Impossible to look at this photo without smiling!
What a great photo of the two of you! It’s lovely to both read about and see the joy you’re experiencing as a new grandmother.
Great fun and I so agree. We also have a new grandson and it has been a joy for sure!
Oh wow! He is cute! What a great photo! Love that Julieanne was able to meet up with you. So fun!
I must go to New Orleans. I must have a beignet there. I’ve had a can of coffee from Cafe du Monde but imagine it can’t compare to that at the actual cafe. I am so intrigued by the red rainbow, imagining all the poems and representations it could spawn, as I love symbolism. Last but not least – what great joy to hold that new child and know he’s your own! He’s beautiful. Life is so very good.
Fran, if you ever make it to Nola, let me know. I’d love to show you around. I’m in love with City Park and all the new things there.
You’re on, Margaret! I can’t think of a better guide! 🙂
So wonderful! Thank you for sharing this! Ruth, thereisnosuchthingasagodforsakentown.blogspot.com
Grandma-joy is the best. Tonight is our community grandparents’ meeting. We meet almost monthly and it’s a delight to share stories and pics. The pic of you and Thomas is pure delight!