With a new year, I'm trying new things. So here I go with my first attempt at blogging. I haven't written any stories for anyone else to read since I was in the second grade. I admit I did win first place in my class for writing the best story, which was chosen by a group of teachers. It's surprising I even remember this considering I'm now in my 50's. Wow--a half a century ago!

I've decided to write about my grandchildren, which are the most precious of beings on earth! Mine range from age 15-months to almost 18 years old! Nine total. Four of these are step-granddaughters, but I love them like they're my own blood.

I learn so much from these kids and am amazed at how smart kids of today are. It's pretty bad when I have to have Alex, 4, teach grandma how to play the Wii game. Or Robbie, 13, hook the Playstation up because grandma can't do that either. Jacob, 10, has to download his game on my computer and explain which keys to hit to make the game work. My step-granddaughters are all extremely athletic. Jordan, 17, is a senior this year and I've watched her play some outstanding volleyball games. I've seen Hailey, 15, Erica, 13, and Courtney, 11, have some awesome hits at baseball and softball games. All these girls and even Robbie have enjoyed basketball as well. Then there's the two littlest ones, Maci, 3, and Hunter, 15-months. These two are both crazy about riding the golf cart and four-wheeler with their mom and dad. Kids of today sure have lots of things to entertain themselves with and keep active! How can they ever be bored?

The thing is, my husband and I thought that once we got our three kids raised, life would settle down. WRONG! We get to enjoy going to many various sporting events, programs, open houses, and other wonderful events that these precious kids are active in. I guess it keeps us from getting old and does add spice to our lives.

I've found during my life that children and grandchildren are what get us through hard times. They can present us with the simplest of pleasures by maybe making a funny face, telling a cute story, or simply falling asleep in our arms.