I started writing the GaGazine for members of the GaGa Sisterhood when we first began meeting in December 2003. During the first four years it was text-only and I sent it out quarterly. In 2008 I signed up with Constant Contact services and switched to a monthly format, embellishing the text with color and graphics.

The GaGazine offers summaries of our meetings and creative resources that help us grandparents stay connected with our families. If you’d like to receive a complimentary copy of our award winning newsletter, click here.

This annual fun run/walk fundraiser starts at Rodeo Beach in the beautiful Marin Headlands and ends at Bunker Road near the Marine Mammal Center, a world-class rehabilitation hospital, research and education center. After more than 14,000 animal rescues over the past 30 years, the Center has a new location in Sausalito, where you can learn about marine mammals and the ocean.

This year’s race provides participants with two route options: a two-mile scenic walk or a four-mile race. After the event, all participants are invited to attend a “Fun Day” at The Marine Mammal Center, where you can enjoy complimentary food, drinks and tours, while learning about the important work of the Center. You’ll be able to see fur seals and seal lions and the gorgeous Ft. Cronkite natural area.

The event is open to all ages and is perfect for runners (casual and pro), families, walkers, ‘baby joggers’ and ‘power-strollers’. There will also be a costume contest and dogs on leashes are welcome too!

I’ve noticed that since I’ve become a grandmother, I’m able to achieve moments of Zen when I’m with my two granddaughters. I’m talking about those perfectly blissful moments when I’m totally oblivious to everything but my grandchild and the activity we’re engaged in. On my last visit the three of us played a wild game of hide and seek outside in their play yard. We laughed hysterically when the older one kept running just a little ahead of us and out of sight so that we couldn’t find her.

I’ve heard many grandmas describe these moments: Cindy told me about racing her twin grandsons down a slalom course at Squaw Valley; Jan sewed a Halloween costume with her granddaughter; Judy splashed in a mud puddle with her little grandson and watched the reflection of the clouds as they drifted by.

The great thing about these moments is that you don’t even realize you’re in them until after they’re over. Then you say, wow, where did that hour just go? It’s not until I come home from a visit and the details of my “other” life come back into my consciousness that I realize how blessed I am to have these moments—no worries or cares, no appointments or deadlines. It’s such a refreshing break and way more satisfying than meditation.

We should cherish and savor these moments of Zen with our grandchildren. They might even teach us how to be better at meditating.