Warning Grandpa in Training

FIRST AND FOREMOST – I LOVE YOU

That’s a rule we’re sticking with, so get used to hearing it a lot. Since the moment I found out your mom was pregnant, I’ve been walking around with the biggest, goofiest smile on my face. I’ve had a lot of titles in my life—executive, boss, the youngest-this or that—but none of them come close to Grandpa. You? You’ve already stolen the show, and you’re not even here yet. Talk about impressive!

Now, I have a confession: I’ve spent most of my life being “the youngest.” The youngest in the office, the youngest executive, the youngest among my friends. Heck, I got so good at being young, I thought it was my permanent job title! And now, bam—plot twist—I’m Grandpa! How’s that for a character arc?

A friend of mine teased me about this new chapter and said, “Well, looks like a woman’s going to be running your life for a change!” And I said, “You’re absolutely right—and I’m lovin’ it!” Layla, I have zero problems with you being the boss. In fact, I’m already taking notes. (Pro tip: Grandpas who are good listeners stay out of trouble. At least, I hope that’s true.)

But here’s the thing, Layla—I’m new to this grandpa gig. And while I promise to try my best, I’m going to need you to bear with me when I inevitably mess up. For example, I may accidentally call your favorite cartoon character by the wrong name, or give you the wrong toy and expect applause. And don’t even get me started on snacks—I once served your dad cereal with salt instead of sugar. (Spoiler alert: he did not approve.)

I’m already anticipating the learning curve. Like, what if I try to teach you how to ride a bike and end up teaching myself how to fall off one instead? Or what if I buy you a toy, and you end up playing with the box instead? Rookie mistakes, I know, but I promise to laugh with you through every single one of them. Well, you’ll laugh. I’ll probably just be rubbing my head and wondering where all my energy went.

And then there’s the emotional stuff. You’ll grow up, and I’ll be bursting with pride at every little thing you do—your first step, your first word, your first time rolling your eyes at one of my jokes (oh, don’t worry, I’ve got a ton of those ready). But Layla, when you laugh, when you smile, when you tell me about your day, I’ll know I’ve hit the jackpot. I’ll cherish every moment we share, even the ones where you’re mad because I put your socks on the wrong feet. (Yes, that can happen.)

Now, I also need to warn you: as much as I’m trying to be the cool grandpa, I will absolutely embarrass you sometimes. Like, if we’re in public and your favorite song comes on, I might just bust out my “signature dance moves. Ask your grandma” I’ve been practicing them since the disco era, and let me tell you, they’re something special. Just remember, Layla: a grandpa’s job is not only to love you but also to keep you humble.

So, my sweet Layla, here’s the deal: I promise to try my best, learn from my mistakes, and make this grandpa thing my new favorite adventure. In return, I ask for your patience and a lot of hugs. Together, we’ll figure this out, one laugh, one hug, and one unforgettable moment at a time.

And if I do mess up along the way, just remember: I’m not perfect, but I am perfectly yours.

Always,

Grandpa