think she should be doing more by now?”

Sometimes she repeated questions that our pediatrician had already answered.

Other times, she offered unsolicited advice about feeding, sleeping, and development.

I tried to respond calmly.

“Lily’s doctor is happy with her progress.”

“She’s growing at her own pace.”

“Everything is being monitored.”

My mother would nod, then ask another question.

I began to dread her visits.

Still, I kept inviting her.

I wanted Lily to know her grandmother.

I wanted to believe there was a loving relationship waiting to develop between