Our beloved babysitter has decided to retire after putting in decades of loving, nurturing, teaching and caring for our little ones.  

All three of my girls went to Mammaw Joyce’s and truly still think of her to this day as their grandmother. Not only do they feel that way, but she has grown to be someone I would consider a life-long friend, as well.

Not many are blessed enough to find someone so special; that treats every child they care for not like a job or a paycheck, but as if they are her actual grandchildren.  

Mammaw Joyce was there for my girls from the time they were infants to toddlers to school-age kids that still looked forward to spending the summer months with her. And my oldest who is now 10, but never misses a chance to go hug Mammaw’s neck.  

She helped me potty train them, taught them their ABC’s and the Pledge of Allegiance. She disciplined them when necessary, loved on them even more and was a part of numerous milestones.  

When I told Ashton and Kameron, my youngest two, that she was retiring. Ashton understood. Kameron on the other hand did not.  

Me: “Mammaw Joyce is retired now.” 

Kameron: “Why is she tired?” 

Ashton: “Not tired Kameron – RE-TIRED!” 

I told Ashton she was right, but she is probably TIRED, too.  

I do not know how people choose words and what their meanings will be, but I believe there must be some kind of correlation between TIRED and RETIRED.  

I never missed an opportunity to tell Mammaw Joyce how thankful I was for her, and I will remain grateful to her for eternity. Along with many, many other parents and their children. I hope she knows the impact she has played in all our lives over the years.  

So, here is to you, Mammaw… we hope you enjoy being RETIRED, and hopefully catch up on some very much earned rest so you maybe you won’t get RE-TIRED.  

We love you!

(Paige Gurgainers is a mom of three girls, digital journalist for Webster Parish Journal and publisher of Bienville Parish Journal and Claiborne Parish Journal.)