Last week I was walking to our local park with my 3-year old grandson. We were talking, laughing, stopping to look at every ant that crawled and bird that flew. Once at the park, he broke into a run to get to the swing set. Hardly able to keep up with him, I called out, "Hey, hold your horses!"

Last Saturday evening my husband and I were having dinner in a rather "grown-up" restaurant (translation: kids not particularly welcomed).  Candlelight.  Fine wines.  Quiet conversations.

But it's kind of funny, because the tables were in close proximity, we could easily hear the conversations around us, and many of the diners were talking and laughing about the wonders and joys of grandparenthood.

Except for a table of four right next to us.

The four of them were being openly critical of the ways their children are raising their grandchildren. The topic primarily focused on the "green living" topic and how difficult (no, impossible) it is to have their grandchildren for visits.

Loose lips sink ships.

And loose lips also sink spirits.

In the case of grandparents’ critical analysis of all the things that their children (or in-law children) are doing with grandchildren, well… “mum” is oftentimes the better word. Let’s take the first, and probably the harshest, criticism – the baby’s name.

Just the thought of becoming a grandmother sends most women on a joyous journey.

Ah, a baby. A cuddly, cooing masterpiece of nature.

Months of preparation begin for the arrival. Shopping. Baby showers. Lists of necessities. And yes, luxuries too.

Adorable clothing. Items for the nursery. Things for travel. Marvels to entertain with.

And on one most special day of all, the baby arrives and all is well with the world.

Until the grandmas (and grandpas too) are asked to babysit at their homes.

Why wasn't there a baby shower for grandma!?