August 19, 2014. It’s hard to believe, but on this day, 25 years ago, I arrived in the United States as a young mother with three small children at Dulles International Airport in Washington, DC.—carrying suitcases, bags, baby bottles,  and an arsenal of  toys in each arm. It’s hard to believe but on the same day, we said goodbye to our homeland in Germany and hello to our new home in America. It was exciting and scary all at the same time.

I had no idea, at the time, that I would have a fourth child (an American!) and that Germany would be left behind for good.

25 years later, I’m still here in the States. I’m no longer the young mother. Instead, I’m a (ahem) young grandmother with grandkids about the same age as my children when we arrived to this country exactly a quarter century ago.

This is a cause for celebration. It’s a new chapter of my life and I can’t wait to share it with you. “The Oma Way” website is a gift—just like all the experiences are gifts that have helped shape me as a person. I want to give back. Share. Listen. And respond. It’s all very exciting. And I hope you join and follow me on this incredible journey.

It’s the circle of life. And it goes on and on. How will you be remembered?