Grandma Asks "Why Not?"

I thought I knew my sister, Karen. That was before she became the grandma of two little girls, Chase and Kambria.

My sister, Karen's favorite activity is shopping. Then why is she willing to give up an afternoon at the mall in favor of babysitting?

My sister, Karen's idea of clutter is a stray carrot peel in the sink. Then why are toys and stuffed animals scattered on the floor in her living room?

My sister, Karen always looks like she just stepped out of a fashion magazine. Then why are grass stains on her pants and bits of twigs sticking out of her hair from rolling down the hill at the park?

My sister, Karen takes pride in her nails, which are always manicured and polished. Then why is she in the backyard helping Chase knead the dough for mud pies?

My sister, Karen takes excellent care of her belongings and never takes risks that might damage property. Then why did she admit to a delightful session of jumping on the bed with Chase? After all, only a troll could turn Chase down when she appears with a mischievous sparkle in her eyes and says, "Gammy . . . let's go jump on your bed!"

My sister, Karen taught home economics for over thirty years and has organizational habits and skills to spare. Then why are snacking and playing with Chase and Kambria the only things she can get done in an afternoon?

I thought I knew my sister, Karen. Now, I'm kind of glad I didn't. I guess she's just like the rest of us who have spent years asking, "Why?" When grandchildren come into our lives, a flip-flop occurs, and it just seems like a lot more fun to ask, "Why not?"