September 8th is National Grandparents’ Day. While the greeting card companies may have created this as an excuse to sell more cards, I’d like to take this opportunity to celebrate the role grandparents play in our lives and our children’s lives.
I grew up states away and an 8-hour car ride from my only living grandparents, so I cherished my visits with them 3 to 4 times a year. I always wished I lived closer to my grandparents, especially when my friends would have plans with their grandparents who lived locally.
My parents moved to Connecticut from Buffalo, NY, during COVID-19 to be close to me and my family. It only took three kids and a pandemic to convince them that living close by would benefit everyone.
I truly believed they needed to move close to me so I could care for them. Funny enough, it’s the opposite, and we’re not alone.
I spoke with a grandfather who was attending a “class reunion” with his granddaughter, and we had a great time discussing how being around grandkids “keeps you young” and is a “benefit for warding off dementia.”
I shared what my parents do, and he spoke fondly of his time with his grandchildren. This exchange with my mom was a selling point for taking care of my kids; however, I know my parents don’t need convincing to spend time with their grandkids. It’s the joy of their lives, evident to anyone who witnesses them with their five grandkids.
I share all of this to say, “Thank you.” Thank you to the grandparents who show up for their grandkids and embrace the second round of raising children. The joy I get as a mom and daughter watching my parents play with my kids is hands-down the best feeling ever!
Out of curiosity, I asked my kids what they liked most about living near their Nana and Grandpa. They said, “It’s fun living near them because I get to play with them—ping pong and cards. I also like when they come to my class for parties.” Another child shared, “My favorite thing to do with Nana is to build Legos with her.” Finally, “I like knowing someone I love will be with me everywhere I go.”
On behalf of kids and grandkids everywhere, thank you, grandparents, for being present and showing up however you can in your grandchildren’s lives. As much as it keeps you “young,” it has long-lasting effects on your grandchildren. They cherish you.
