The Value of a Rock

My daughter and I are as different as night and day. I was always a tomboy and still, at the age of 53 hunt and fish. I love the outdoors. Jessica on the other hand has always been my prissy little girl that grew up to be total opposite of her mother.

She's now married and has two wonderful little boys that I love to brag about. Her husband always showers her with the gifts she desires every birthday, anniversary, etc. Gives her diamonds, roses and she's in heaven.

I, also have a great husband. If he buys me a good hunting knife for Christmas I am happy. This is how different our values are. To each his own. I realize more women prefer jewelry and things like that but that's just not me.

Over the weekend I had my daughter's sons over. We had our movie marathon, popcorn, and making Christmas ornaments out of baking clay. When it came time to go put their PJ's on they had remembered they brought my Christmas gifts. So as they anxiously waited I opened them.

Lucas the 6 year old gave we a coffee mug which I used the next morning for my coffee, of course. Collin the 8 year old gave me a ring which I am still wearing for the time being. They were both so excited. I really made a big deal out of both the gifts. They were both very precious to me. They were gifts they were able to purchase at school. Probably a dollar or two each. The mug said "World's Greatest Grandma" and the ring had pink and clear stones.

Later, talking to my husband I showed him my gifts and again, made a big deal out of it. Any mother or grandmother can relate to the situation. This were a truly big deal to me.

After awhile, Collin and I were sitting and talking. He looked at me very seriously and said, "Grandma, those diamonds aren't real. I really can't afford a real diamond." It was so adorable. I told him a real diamond was a waste of money to me. The ring he bought me was very valuable because it was from him and so important to me because it was my special gift from him. I explained to Lucas that it was the same with the mug.

He then said "I couldn't wait to see your face when you saw it." That just filled my heart with warmth. What they didn't know was the pleasure I got out of their expressions as I opened the gifts.

The values of youth are so precious. The values of innocence. Too bad we all can't feel and see things that way. The big joy out of something so simple.

I'm not a jewelry person but tend to get it every now and then from my grandchildren. I've decided to save them all. Wear them when the givers are around. One day when I pass they will all be buried with me. The values of innocence.

Thanks for allowing me to share such an important moment in my life once again. May all my friends of AC have a Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday.