All in the family

Lydia this afternoon June 24 2011

It's hard to believe that the young lady in this picture is actually my granddaughter.  She is a full head taller than I am, and bigger boned, with an ample bosom (something I was never able to brag about - especially at the age of 14). Yet I do see some family resemblance - mainly on Keith's side in her facial features - but that's about where simalarity ends.  Somehow, before having one, I had  always imagined a blond, blue eyed, delicate little granddaughter, and what I got was a Lydia, 5'9, dark haired, loud and very opinionated. Of course, just about every 14 year old is opinionated and we actually are getting along quite well so far. It just feels foreign somehow. Even my son David (her dad) seems a bit mystified at the daughter that he brought forth - she is way bigger than he, and last night. as we arrived from the airport,  he just stood there and stared at her - as if he was trying to establish whether she was really his child or not. You see, we hadn't seen her for 2 years, and a teenager grows a lot in 2 years!  Sure, she was big and loud 2 years ago, but now she is even bigger and louder (if that is possible) - but not as bratty - she is quieter that way, we haven't really heard her all day so maybe I should take that 'loud' part back after all.  She certainly was entertaining all the way home in the car - I couldn't get a word in edgewise!   And she is a poet - funnily enough - a bookworm , artist, and a poet - it doesn't jive with her physique, but it certainly feels more familiar to me.  So, for the next 2 weeks, we get to know Lydia all over again, as a 14 year old daughter, grandaughter, and as a niece. Should be interesting. I hope that she will like us, I know that I already love her.