How many children do you have?

I have three children. Eldest Brian is married to Carlie. They are both working in elementary education. My daughter Meredith is married to Nate and they are in ministry in the United Methodist Church in the St. Louis area. My youngest, Will, is a pilot and his wife Jordan is an R.N. in Alabama.

How many grandchildren? What are their ages?

I have two grandchildren, Eleonore (Ellie) five and Francesca (Frankie) three.

What do your grandchildren call you?

The girls call me Nana and my husband Papa.

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

I don't know if I can wait till birth to hold this person. (We called Peapod, until we knew it was Eleonore.)

How often do you get to see your grandchildren?

Although they live in St. Louis and we are about three hours away, we see each other at least monthly.

What is the best thing about being a grandma?

The unconditional love I have for them and them for me.

What is the most challenging part of being a grandma?

Following their parents' rules to the "T".

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

While we were watching the Nutcracker at Christmas, it was Ellie's first stage performance to watch. It was a typical stage with side curtains to get backstage. As people walked off the side of the stage, Eleonore leaned over to me and asked, "Why are they going in that cave?" I thought it was hysterical.

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

Put on music and dance.

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

Play with them and their toys, usually playing kitchen.

What/where has been your favorite family vacation?

Branson, MO. to Silver Dollar City.

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

We Facetime each other and talk on the phone.

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

Faith in Christ.

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

Love

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

Follow your child's rules about raising their child and never disrespect them.

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

It is the best job in the world. Have little things at your house that are only theirs, like silverware, cups, a toy space so they know they are always on your mind.

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!