Time for Grandma to smile again

By Joan Hadac

Your correspondent in Clearing and Garfield Ridge

(708) 496-0265 • [email protected]

As sad as my columns were for the last two weeks (if you missed them, they’re posted at southwestregionalpublishing.com), it’s that much of a relief to write about something joyful.

Something wonderful is happening to me next week. My grandsons are coming to town!

This is the one “vacation” I look forward to all year long. Since my older daughter, son-in-law and their four boys live out of state, I only see them in person once, maybe twice a year.

The rest of the time it’s over Facebook, but that’s not the same. Hugging a computer screen is not the same as hugging the kids in person. (I don’t hug the screen, but I’m tempted.) I want to hug the stuffing out of them, but the boys get a look on their face like, “OK, Grandma, that’s enough for now.”

My four grandsons are 7, 4, 3 and 11 months. The three youngest are having birthdays soon. I can only wish them happy birthday electronically and get a little depressed. I miss them when they are not here, but I try to be a part of their lives. That’s why when they are here, we have a schedule of things to do—yes, a schedule. There’s so much to do in the neighborhood, city and wider area. We want them to experience Chicago.

Timing is a dance when they visit, because Grandma and Grandpa want to take them here, there and everywhere. We also want to give my daughter and her husband time to visit friends and family in the area. I hand over my car keys (I have a minivan that holds four car seats and two adults) and let them meander at will.

So, if you don’t hear from me next week, don’t be alarmed. I’m with my grandsons and watching them have the time of their lives. If your grandkids live far away, you know exactly what I’m talking about. If you have the luxury of having your grandchildren nearby, please feel fortunate and give them an extra hug.

Gospel good news

It’s always a good day when I hear from Pastor Julio Pena over at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church, 5550 S. Merrimac.

Pastor Julio tells me that a community prayer vigil is held at the church at 7 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. People of all faiths are welcome to the prayer vigil, and you do not have to a member of or attend Good Shepherd.

Prayers center on the church, community, families, youth, children, world issues and our own private prayers.

School age-children can spend time Walking with Jesus during Good Shepherd’s Vacation Bible School, happening from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, Aug. 8 through Aug. 12. The week-long event will feature games, arts and crafts, music, Bible study and a simple meal each night. Registration is required for each participant and parents who would like to volunteer are welcome.

There are more Good Shepherd community events coming your way starting in September, such as The Spirit of Love Community Youth Group, an open house with a chance to tour the church and meet with Pastor Julio, the church becoming a safe haven for those who need it and a mental health program. I’ll give you details in the following weeks.

To register for programs or for more information, call Good Shepherd at (773) 585-1094 or email [email protected].

Here’s a gentle reminder that we have our very own farmers market sponsored by the Garfield Ridge Chamber of Commerce. It happens every Wednesday from 3 to 7 p.m. in the parking lot of Mayfield Banquets, 6072 S. Archer. See what food and other goodies are available. Thanks to the chamber for sponsoring this event.

As always, I invite you to send me your news, whether it be a birthday, anniversary, graduation, birth of a child or grandchild, a wedding or anything important to you and your family.

Until next week, take care.