There seems to be a holiday for everything these days. (Just a few days ago, it was National Toasted Marshmallow Day!) But one holiday that my family celebrates annually is National Grandparents Day.
While it might sound like a greeting card holiday, this day to honor our parents’ parents was first celebrated in 1979 after President Jimmy Carter signed a proclamation naming the Sunday after Labor Day National Grandparents Day.
I’ve always considered my Gram one of my favorite people. She was the one I would write essays about for school when I was younger. Visiting her was special growing up because it usually only happened once a year.
My grandmother, who turned 97 this year, remains sassy as ever, with the Red Sox and sneaking her great-grandson cookies when she thinks no one is looking as her vices. She bakes for her local firemen and is now a Netflix master.
The toughest part of the pandemic was limiting our visits to drive-bys, and her not being able to hug or kiss my son Jackson. He refers to my grandmother as Big Gram and loves helping guide her walker. As an adult and parent, I appreciate how my mom felt when she saw me being “spoiled,” and how special my relationship with my Gram was as a child.
Between Big Gram, Grandma, Pop Pop, Nana, and Grandpa, Jackson gets to spend frequent quality time with all his grandparents.
And on National Grandparents Day, we celebrate them all!
Life is busy. It can be tough to get everyone together. But one of the joys of social media and video calls is that you can share moments and memories no matter where you are.
If you have lost a grandparent or are looking to spread some cheer on Grandparents Day this Sunday, contact your local community senior center or local senior living community and ask about sending cards and letters!