This Sunday, September 9th, is Grandparents’ Day. I found the history behind the day fascinating and thought I’d share it with you. In 1970, a West Virginian grandmother (43 times over!) decided there needed to be a day to honor grandparents. She wasn’t doing it for selfish reasons, but rather to create a day that brought families together. She worried that society no longer realized the wealth of wisdom the elderly offered and merely brushed past them as an out-dated relic. After much campaigning, she convinced President Jimmy Carter to sign a proclamation, creating Grandparents’ Day. I found this section of his speech particular interesting and a terrific reminder of the importance of grandparents:
“We all know grandparents whose values transcend passing fads and pressures, and who possess the wisdom of distilled pain and joy. Because they are usually free to love and guide and befriend the young without having to take daily responsibility for them, they can often reach out past pride and fear of failure and close the space between generations.”
Grandparents are such an integral part of our lives! As parents, they struggled to balance work and home responsibilities, a steady flow of bills and repairs, and the nurture and care of their children. And, now, that all of us children are out of the house (and are, for the most part, responsible citizens), they can invest their energies in our children. Of course, that usually means, “par-tay!” with the grandchildren, while we scratch our heads and wonder what on earth happened to the parents we knew.
But, they are also the ones our children can turn to for advice, a hug, and unending love. Because when I’m at my wit’s end and I call my mom for insight, she generally sees a broader view of the situation. You know, the days I pull out my hair that my daughter drew all over the walls, she exalts in the fact that “A” is destined to be the next Michelangelo. And, while I do groan and roll my eyes, I remember how nice it was when my grandma came to my rescue, as my chief cheerleader and self-esteem boost. And, I’m very grateful that my daughter has grandparents in her life to cherish her and help us, as clueless parents, in our job of raising her.
So, I encourage you to take a little time tomorrow to show your appreciation to the grandparents in your life! And, here are a few ways you can do it!
Make a Photo Book
What grandparent doesn’t love receiving a picture of their grandchild? I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard my parents complain about the lack of up to the minute pictures of their beloved granddaughter. And, with all the wonderful deals on Shutterfly, Snapfish, and Smile Books, it is easy to create a beautiful photo book for a very reasonable price. For those of you who are less familiar with photo books, I assure you that it’s quite simple, especially if you use Shutterfly! All you need to do is upload your favorite pictures to your preferred online photo center and follow the directions to put together a memorable scrapbook. And, right now, you can get a free photo book at Shutterfly – you just pay shipping (which starts at $7.99).
If you need a photo book by Sunday, be sure to check your local Walgreens, CVS, or Rite Aid! Most of the stores have the equipment that allow you to create a photo CD, book, or collage within minutes. And, CVS is offering photo books at 25% off – you can make them in-store or online (use promo code: BOOK25).
Another idea, if you’re pressed for time and money, is to print off a few favorite family pictures. This week, the Walgreen circular has a coupon for 100 prints for $10. You can take your memory stick filled with pictures to your nearest store, and they print while you wait. Then, find a small, leather photo album (I’ve found ones for as low as $3 at drug stores) to put all the pictures inside. This way, you can create your own “Photo Brag Book” for your parents!
Framing Artwork
If you have an older child, have them write out a favorite Scripture verse or quote and decorate the page with drawings, coloring, stamps, or stickers. Every grandparent would enjoy and appreciate the time your child spent to make them a gift. And, if you want to make the artwork a little more special, you can find a nice stand alone frame for it. Right now, Michael’s has printable coupons for 40% off any regular priced item and 15% off your entire purchase including sale items.
And, Michaels stores are offering an activity for “Grandparents Day Frame Make-It Take-It” on Saturday, September 8th, from 10 AM – Noon. You just have to purchase a wood frame – and, they will have all the supplies for decorating (hooray for no clean-up!). This is open to children ages 3 and up. {Be sure to call your local Michael’s store to make sure they are participating!}
A Special Meal
If your parents live closer, why not invite them over for a special lunch or dinner? Depending on the ages of your children, you can involve them in process. They can decorate the table, write and design menus, help prepare the food, serve the meal, and clear the table. And, I know most grandparents would be thrilled to see their grandchildren actively participating in the dinner making process and will feel extra-special to be treated with such pomp and circumstance! 
Or if life is just too busy right now, you can always take them out for a meal. Many restaurants are offering terrific grandparents’ day specials this weekend. Grandparents will get a free entree at Old Spaghetti Warehouse on Sunday when they are accompanied by their grandchildren. All Burtons Grill locations (there is one in Virginia Beach, VA) will give grandparents 50% off their food purchases on Sunday. And, White Castle is offering Four Sliders for $1.00 on Sunday with this coupon. For those in DC, be sure to check out our weekend round-up of family activities and restaurant specials.
Show Your Love
If all else fails, you can always make a card or just give them a call! Even such a simple act would go a long way to brighten their day. Let them know how much you appreciate them and have your child take some time to listen to them! Some of the best life lessons came from my Grandma; and most of the times, I didn’t even realize it.
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