Debbie Peavy: The Joy In The Little Things

My husband and I have three children — two daughters and one son — and being parents has always been such a blessing. Now, watching our children become parents themselves has brought us even more joy. We currently have two grandchildren. James is 4 years old, and Twyla is 2 years old. We’re also excitedly awaiting another grandbaby who is due on September 10th. Our grandchildren call us “Debbs” and “Big Al,” which makes us smile every single time we hear it.

I honestly love every part of it. I love watching them grow, hearing their little personalities develop, and simply being part of their everyday lives. Even when we’re not physically together, we FaceTime often. I can sit and watch them play over FaceTime for the longest time because those little moments matter to me. I try to make the most of every minute with them because children grow so quickly. One minute they’re babies, and the next they’re running around telling stories and developing their own opinions.

We make it a priority to see them at least once a month, and in between visits, FaceTime helps us stay close. Technology has truly been such a gift for grandparents. When we are together, we love making memories. We enjoy visiting the children’s museum and the zoo together. We also spend time at our beach house, which the grandchildren lovingly call our other home, the “wood house.” Hearing the names children come up with for special places always makes those memories even sweeter.

We love simple traditions that create lasting memories. We bake cookies together, read books, and spend quality time talking and laughing. One of my favorite things is that my two-year-old granddaughter now likes to “read” to me. Watching her flip through books and tell stories in her own little way melts my heart. For birthdays, my daughter, my husband, and I love decorating and making the celebrations feel special. I think children remember the love and effort more than anything else.

Children need people in their lives who make them feel loved, supported, and safe. Grandparents bring a different kind of wisdom, patience, and encouragement that can help shape a child in such meaningful ways. I believe those relationships help children feel grounded and connected to family traditions and values.

Grandparenting has taught me to slow down and appreciate the little things. It has lovingly reminded me that love, presence, and encouragement are meaningful in a child’s life. I also enjoy reaching out to my grandchildren’s preschool classes because I believe investing in children and making them feel seen and valued is something that matters deeply. Being a grandparent has taught me that it’s often the simple, everyday moments that turn into the most meaningful memories.