Living in New York City, life is often a whirlwind of bus rides, bustling streets, and endless to-do lists. But every now and then, a moment comes along that makes you pause and appreciate the simple joys of life. For me, that moment happened this week when I had the honor of being the “secret reader” in my grandson, Ollie’s, day care class.
Preparing for the Big Day
The adventure began with a trip to Barnes & Noble, where I carefully selected four books to share with the little ones: Good Night New York, Harry the Dirty Dog, The Rainbow Fish, and Grandma Loves You. Each book felt like a little piece of magic, and I couldn’t wait to see how the kids would react.
I thought about bringing my book, Unlocking the Triathlon: The Beginner’s Guide to Competing in a Triathlon, because Ollie loves reading that book when his mother changes his diaper. But I thought better of it.
On the day of, I hopped on the bus from my apartment, books in hand, and made my way to the day care. As I walked through the doors, I felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. Would the kids enjoy the stories? Would Ollie be surprised?
A Grand Entrance
When I entered the classroom, the teachers greeted me warmly, though they didn’t speak English. But none of that mattered the moment I saw Ollie. His eyes widened in disbelief, and then, with a big smile, he ran straight into my arms. He climbed onto my lap and stayed there for the entire class, as if he couldn’t believe his grandma was really there.
Storytime Adventures
I started with the books I brought, reading each one with as much enthusiasm as I could muster. The kids were engaged at first, but as young children often do, their attention began to wander. Ollie, however, was glued to my side, urging me to keep reading.
When I finished the books I brought, he insisted I read more. So, I picked up a few books from the classroom and continued. It was such a special moment, having him snuggled on my lap, completely absorbed in the stories.
A Bittersweet Goodbye
All too soon, it was time to leave. As I said goodbye, Ollie’s face crumpled, and he started to cry. My heart broke a little, but it also swelled with love. He let me kiss him goodbye—a rare treat these days—, and I left feeling a mix of sadness and gratitude.
A Memory to Treasure
Being the secret reader in Ollie’s class was an experience I’ll never forget. It reminded me of the power of small, meaningful moments and the joy of connecting with loved ones. In a city as fast-paced as New York, it’s these quiet, tender experiences that truly make life special.
If you ever get the chance to be a secret reader—or to surprise someone you love in a meaningful way—don’t hesitate. It’s a gift for them, but it’s also a gift for you.