This Is Why Grandparents Are The Most Important People | HuffPost

This Is Why Grandparents Are The Most Important People

By

Guest Writer

|

With Grandparents Day coming up on Sunday, Sept. 7th, Huff/Post 50 decided to take a moment to celebrate the incredible contributions grandparents have made to our lives. We asked you to tell us about your own grandparents -- and your own grandchildren. We were inundated with inspiring stories. Featured below are just 16 amazing grandparents. On Friday, we'll publish stories from grandparents about their grandchildren. From what we've seen, grandparents aren't ready for the sidelines. They want to be active, engaged, involved and appreciated. Happy Grandparents Day everyone!

Ashley Holden's grandmother -- Mary Jane Holden

"'Boop-e-doop’ is the sound of our beloved Grandmother, Momo, in the kitchen, whipping up her family-famous French toast. Her main ingredient: love. At 91, she inspires ladies in her fitness class and still crawls around on the floor to play with kids. For 50 years, she has slept in curlers and used her secret rinse-in-a-bottle to achieve the perfect golden hue, setting an example to always look your best, because ‘you never know who you are going to meet.’ Momo makes friends with strangers in store lines and has a knack for scoring bargains from clerks on her purchases. Momo doles out dating advice: always choose a partner who is well groomed, has good morals and family values. Popo was a lucky man to be her husband for over 60 years. She attributes a long-lasting marriage to the ability to compromise."

Kate Hoerster's grandfather -- Grandpa Kent

"Grandpa Kent’s table, rugged and smelling of warm leather, was the heart of his Guadalajara home. This was where I grew to love his deep, steady voice and his kind and playful eyes. This was the place I learned of the joys in his life. And of his sorrows. To me, he was heroic, and not because he was shot down and survived (twice!) while serving in the Air Force during World War II. But because he chose, while living in Texas in the 1940s, to honor himself and love another man. Unquestionably, this brought pain to the mother of his young son, a brave woman herself. But to not honor himself likely would have brought a different sort of pain to each of them, a slow and steady pain throughout their lives. Instead, he gave my grandmother a chance at true love; she eventually married a Texas cowboy (he even had a bobcat for a pet!). And he gave himself that same gift. At the end of his life, Grandpa Kent's face was lined with deep wrinkles, marked by years of Mexican sunshine, cigarettes, and lots of joy. There is this amazing way that love, when bountiful and chosen, is reflected far and wide. His way of loving so fully is reflected in the way our family loves one another, and in the ways our family shares love with those beyond the boundaries of its walls. Each of my grandparents made indelible impacts on our family. This was his."

Lee Ann Nye's grandmother -- Lillie Belle Wall

"We lost her in 2008 at the age of 95. This picture is such an inspiration to me. She and her husband could no longer drive, so they got a little scooter. She had one of her hips replaced at age 80 so that she could keep dancing! And dance she did! I think of her every day. One memory of her that I replay frequently was her grabbing my hand and looking up at me and telling me to 'be happy'! Until then, I didn't know that I wasn't happy. I replay that memory when I need to be reminded to 'be happy'. Thank you, Grandma!!!"

Kathleen Taylor's grandmother -- Joyce Moody McGraw

"At some point I realized that my grandmother made me. She's a beautiful walking contradiction. She taught me to properly use silverware at dinner parties, cross my legs while seated, and speak appropriately to my elders. But she also taught me to fish, camp, and ride a bike. She is the picture of a Southern Lady, and yet a ﬁerce feminist, who instilled that I alone am in charge of my body and my choices. She drove me to ballet lessons and brought ﬂowers to recitals, but she also took me to tour universities, historic sites, and battleﬁelds. She comforted me through my teenage years, and helped me find my backbone in my twenties. Now, in my thirties, she is my friend; a ﬁercely loyal companion in a way that only a grandmother can be. I watch her with my two little girls -- having tea parties, blowing bubbles, and riding bikes -- and I know how fortunate I am. How fortunate they are. It’s like watching my childhood on replay, and it’s beyond special."

Sarah Quick's grandfather -- Robert Boone

"I am a 35-year-old, single mom of a pretty fantastic 19 month old. After my dad died suddenly and my grandmother died of complications from Alzheimer's, my Grandpa (now 85) moved in with with my mom (recently turned 60). Despite their busy, very active lives, when I had my baby and realized I'd be doing it 100 percent alone, they convinced me to move in also. We live in a four-generation house, and the saying 'it takes a village' is so us. One single tiny human being had taken over our lives and brought HAPPY back to this family. They are so amazing, I could go on for weeks. If anyone should be honored for Grandparents Day, it is my baby's YiaYia (Greek for grandma) and her Great Papa! They are my daughter Emma's very best friends. They deserve the world and more."

Kevin Hagan Jr.'s grandmother -- Joyce Hagan

"I learned a long time ago to never seek or accept advice from people who aren’t where I want to be in life; which is why I only get advice from my grandmother, Joyce Hagan. She epitomizes strength and perseverance. She is a humble woman who will always create a place in her heart for anyone left lonely and I often find myself seeking her counsel, her guidance, and her shoulder when I need it. My grandmother became a widow when she was 30 years old after my grandfather died in a horrific accident on his job. The shock of that, the loss of her mother five months earlier, and the idea of raising five children ages 4 months to 12 years old would’ve overwhelmed most people, but not my grandmother. She picked herself up, dusted herself off, and made no time for self-pity or complaints and she went to work. Leaving home every morning at dusk to cook at the hospital. She was to give her children a safe and stable home life, clothes on their backs and food on the table. I still marvel at how she did it. My grandmother is my best friend. The time I’ve spent in her kitchen, partaking in her wisdom and catching a good Sidney Poitier movie on TV are some of the greatest moments of my life. It’s a shame that all people don’t know the love that I know from grandmother. If they did we’d be a better world."

Evan Lovett's grandmother -- Beatrice Biddle

"My grandmother, Beatrice Biddle (Meema to the family), is 94 years old and is truly an inspiration to our entire family. As a soft-spoken matriarch, she has enriched our lives through her wisdom, knowledge and approach to life. Gleaned through the experience of her nine-plus decades, beginning with her hard-scrabble adolescence as the daughter of a grocery proprietor during the depression, continuing through the marriage of a Holocaust-surviving refugee, she has always displayed quiet strength and an approach befitting her mantra, 'I Keep Going.' Beginning each day with 30 minutes of calisthenics, a cup of coffee and the L.A. Times, Meema has kept active both physically and mentally. My wife and I recently had our first child, Felix. We take him to visit Meema as often as possible, hoping that he can realize -- even spiritually -- what an inspiration this wonderful woman really is to the family."

Kathleen Jimenez' father -- Eli Jimenez

"Eli was a science teacher and coach for 35 years. Since retiring, he has become an artist and more specifically a print maker. He lives alone, gardens, cooks, reads, sings in a community chorus and writes poetry. He has good genes but more importantly he lives with such spirit -- intentionally making each day a good day. He doesn’t look 87 years old! He is the only grandfather his seven grandchildren ever knew (and now the only surviving grandparent). His childlike spirit delighted them when they were young because he truly knew how to play with them. From him they learned about tide pools, the stars, caves, butterflies and how to tell a magical story."

Cathy Chester's grandmother -- Frances Cole

"Sometimes there are angels among us and you don’t realize it until after they’re gone. That was not the case with my grandmother. Nanny, my maternal grandmother, lived with us for 10 years. She taught my friends and me how to sew Barbie dresses, created the most delicious stuffed cabbage I’ve ever tasted, meticulously washed and ironed our clothes, and patiently repeated, upon my request, the same story about her escape as a little girl from czarist Russia. The youngest of six children, my grandmother’s life was often a difficult one, but you’d never know it. Her Hebrew name was 'Fagel' meaning 'bird', a perfect name for her because she was petite, lovely and lit from within. She treated everyone with kindness, and it showed in the way people adored her. Our rabbi loved her; she was a faithful congregant. When I asked her why she needed to fast for her sins on Yom Kippur, believing she had none, she’d answer, 'Because I carry a pocketbook on Shabbat.' Indeed. Nanny looms large in my life to this day. I learned by her example to be kind to others, show compassion for the less fortunate, and to never leave home without lipstick. She always dressed like a lady, took care of her flawless skin with Pond’s Cold Cream, and loved to laugh. After she passed away, I had a dream we were stretching our hands to grasp one another. Although she is gone now, we will always be holding hands."

Amity Paye's grandmother -- Eleanor Magid

"My grandma, Eleanor Magid, is an artist, photographer and graphic designer. Many of her paintings and prints focus on the idea of a peaceable kingdom. With this project she has encouraged artists and people who view her to envision pathways to creating a more peaceful world. When Trayvon Martin was killed, my grandmother could tell I was very upset. She came with me to the million hoodies march and talked to some of my friends about her own ideas of a peaceable kingdom, a society that not only included equality and justice but also synergy among people with varying experience. It was one of the most radical and effecting things I have ever seen someone do. My grandma is also something of a tech wiz, and good thing too, she knows how to maneuver the social media around these protests as well as anyone my age. She keeps everyone around her on their toes, challenging our ideas about the world and how we should change it, both in both the analog and the digital world."

Alanna Vagianos' grandfather -- Horace Bogle

"My grandpa's name is Horace, but we call him PopPop. Being one of seven grandchildren I didn't really get to know my PopPop until I was older. It wasn't until I was in college and my parents, sister, PopPop and I spent time down the shore over the summers that I became not just close with my grandfather but we became friends. While his health is beginning to fail him, at 93 years old the man is sharper than I am. He served in WWII, raised five children and walked a mile every day to stay fit. And while he has more knowledge and wisdom than anyone I've ever met, it's not his years of experience that are my favorite part of him. My favorite part about my grandfather is that he doesn't treat me like his youngest grandchild -- he treats me like a best friend. His ability to laugh at himself, even through some of his hardest times, is absolutely inspirational to me and is a lesson I will carry with me throughout my entire life. Hopefully one day I will be listening to books on tape, sitting in some sunshine on the front enclosed porch surrounded by all of my family members."

"TODAY" show national correspondent Craig Melvin's grandmother -- Grandma Florence

"Growing up in Columbia, SC, we lived about seven minutes from Grandma Florence, but going to her house was like taking an adventure to a far-away magical land where pancakes were the official food and my personality blossomed. I couldn’t get enough of my grandma. I’d beg to visit at work in the evenings where she spent most of her professional life as a custodian and I’d beg to stop by her house early and often on weekends, much to the disgust of a teenage aunt and uncle who liked to sleep in. My fondest memories were our after church routine. From knee-high to 13, I actually sang in the choir to be closer to grandma and since that wasn’t enough, I connived and convinced my way home with her most Sundays. I loved our time together because I was the kind of kid who talked a lot and didn’t like to sit still. She let me yap away and run around. She also taught me the supreme joy of laughter. My grandma’s folksy wit and raw honesty would leave you teary-eyed. She didn’t try to be funny, but just couldn’t help it. When Grandma Florence died in December, I lost my Sunday sidekick and our family lost its matriarch, but we’re grateful for all the memories created by a woman who lived a sometimes hard life with grace, dignity, and a smile."

Ana Sheila Victorino's grandparents -- Pablo Alfonso Lopez and Hilaria Lopez Sanchez

"This November, my abuelitos will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary. They fully embody love in such a beautiful manner that is largely derived from their Mexican culture that values putting family first and keeping family close. You can see this expression of love in the way they care for and always stand by each other but also in how they care for their seven children and 17 grandchildren. This love is reciprocated in such a way that my grandparents are always surrounded by family, and I believe this to be a big part of the reason for their health and longevity at 90 and 91. My abuelito used to drive me home from school for some time when I was little and I fondly our conversations. He would humor my insatiable thirst for knowledge about our roots, Latin American history, politics, and faith with his his own unending bank of knowledge and wisdom. I will always treasure those rides home just as I treasure my abuelita's delicious meals and their constant encouragement and support."

Denise Osso's grandmother -- Gladys Rowlands Walther

"When I think of my Grandma Gladys, I smell pot roast. We are in her kitchen in Rochester, New York, a spotless sanctuary with a worn linoleum floor and a little door in the wall where the milkman put the milk and eggs. She is wearing an apron, of course. And so am I. My grandmother did not own a cookbook. With just a fourth-grade education, she had no use for things that were written down. As a young woman in Scranton, Pennsylvania , she worked as a cook in an orphanage. In her mind, you learned to cook by doing it with someone who knew how -– and then did it yourself. I was full of questions. 'How much flour, Grandma?' 'Enough,' was her answer. 'How big do I cut the carrots?' 'It depends on the carrots,' she would say. 'How long does it cook?' 'Until it’s done,' she said. Eventually, my mother put my grandmother’s recipes for pot roast and Welsh Cookies on 3 x 5 cards, now tucked into Mom’s Joy of Cooking, on a shelf in my one of my sister’s kitchens. In a frame on the wall of my kitchen, I have one of my Grandmother’s aprons. It’s there to remind me of what I learned from her: to pay attention, use common sense and stick around. That who you are is more important than where you came from. That the food which feeds body and soul is made the way she cooked -– by heart."

MSNBC "The Cycle" co-host Abby Huntsman's grandparents -- Jon and Karen Huntsman and Floyd and Mary Cooper

"I am incredibly lucky to still have four amazing grandparents in my life. Something so many of my friends never had at any point in their lives. Because to me, my grandparents have always represented what it means to be a good person. Things that, these days, you only read about from centuries past. Ideals like honor, integrity, character, trust, and most importantly kindness. The idea that you can feel confident based on a person’s handshake, and in what they say. But beyond these virtues, it really is their unconditional love -– for each other and for their family -- both having been married for nearly 60 years -– that will stick with me forever. Marriage is best when underpinned with selflessness, and they have passed that along to my parents and now to me. I still hear from all of them often -– whether to celebrate triumph or console in a setback. They always provide the needed perspective that only a grandparent can share. Somehow they are always right. As they say, wisdom does come with age. Hopefully someday I can pass along their enduring qualities to my own grandchildren."

William Murray, grandfather of Lily, Quinn and Nora

"It was October 23, 2008. Heart attack. I experienced death, but some fast-handed doctors and God allowed me to live and tell the story. On that eventful day, I had no grandchildren. Now I have three beautiful granddaughters -- Lily (5), Quinn (3) and Nora (1). When people ask me the best part about getting a second chance at life, I tell them it's my chance to get to know my grandchildren. My daughter and her husband are terrific parents, my wife is the greatest grandmother ever, and the three little girls are growing up knowing they are loved by their family and by God. I absolutely treasure that I get to participate in their understanding that the most important parts of life are not manufactured by Apple, or available from Netflix. I am still here on earth today truly as a result of Divine Providence -– but aren't we all? As grandparents, what does age give us that isn't available on my Kindle or from Amazon? Age gives us perspective -– a wider, greater understanding of what matters. That’s what I hope to convey to the girls both in words and in action. I want to model caring, understanding, being grateful to God and living with an 'eternity' mindset. By the way -- I’m also probably going to buy them whatever they want that I can afford. It’s too much fun to skip, because Papa loves his granddaughters to the moon and back times infinity!"

Before You Go

Grandparents Day 2014

(01 of60)

I had just mastered reading, but I knew what the sign said. “GRANDMA! It says ‘keep off the dunes’” She tossed a smile over her shoulder and yelled back “the rules don’t apply to MY Granddaughters”. My younger sister and I couldn’t keep up as our long-legged, bathing suit clad Grandmother charged up the dunes. At the peak Grandma encouraged us to follow, then insisted we copy her as she flung herself, rolling down the sand toward the ocean.Always well dressed with enormous jewelry and a tiny Chihuahua in her hand, my Grandmother had fascinating stories. From riding camels in Egypt, living in Hawaii to taking my Aunt’s Girl Scout troop to have their palms read, she lived life with verve.Grandma taught me that life was as remarkable as you made it. I remember thinking “am I the only 6th grader at my school who has a Grandmother taking advanced bellying dancing lessons?” (credit:Shannon Meserve)

(02 of60)

Grandpa Kent’s table, rugged and smelling of warm leather, was the heart of his Guadalajara home. This was where I grew to love his deep, steady voice and his kind and playful eyes. This was the place I learned of the joys in his life. And of his sorrows. To me, he was heroic, and not because he was shot down and survived (twice!) while serving in the Air Force during World War II. But because he chose, while living in Texas in the 1940s, to honor himself and love another man. Unquestionably, this brought pain to the mother of his young son, a brave woman herself.But to not honor himself likely would have brought a different sort of pain to each of them, a slow and steady pain throughout their lives. Instead, he gave my grandmother a chance at true love; she eventually married a Texas cowboy (he even had a bobcat for a pet!). And he gave himself that same gift. At the end of his life, Grandpa Kent's face was lined with deep wrinkles, marked by years of Mexican sunshine, cigarettes, and lots of joy. There is this amazing way that love, when bountiful and chosen, is reflected far and wide. His way of loving so fully is reflected in the way our family loves one another, and in the ways our family shares love with those beyond the boundaries of its walls. Each of my grandparents made indelible impacts on our family. This was his.--Kate HoersterSeattle, WA (credit:Kate Hoerster)

(03 of60)

My Grampa Mike could joke around in four languages. He had a great sense of humor and did silly things to make his six grandchildren laugh. For birthdays and holidays, he showed up with a flat of eggs and a dozen slightly wilted roses. He’d been in the egg business for many years, and those eggs were his idea of a special gift. He loved to write letters in his elegant penmanship. I treasured those letters from my childhood, and would have them still if my house hadn’t burned in a terrible fire that destroyed our neighborhood. I remember what the letters said though: he told me I was a very good writer and encouraged me to write stories (and more letters). His words always stuck with me, and today I am a writer. Grampa Mike always kept a box of stale bread in the trunk of his car. When he took me and my sister on outings in San Francisco -- to a park or a lake -- he would sit on a bench and let us feed the bread to the pigeons and the ducks. He had very strong hands, and I will never forget the time he held onto my hand -- I was a grownup by then, and expecting my first child -- and leaned on me going down the steps of his house. Though he had grown old and needed my help, his hand was still so strong. (credit:Risa Nye)

(04 of60)

My grandpa's name is Horace, but we call him PopPop. Being one of seven grandchildren I didn't really get to know my PopPop until I was older. It wasn't until I was in college and my parents, sister, PopPop and I spent time down the shore over the summers that I became not just close with my grandfather but we became friends. While his health is beginning to fail him, at 93 years old the man is sharper than I am. He served in WWII, raised five children and walked a mile every day to stay fit. And while he has more knowledge and wisdom than anyone I've ever met, it's not his years of experience that are my favorite part of him. My favorite part about my grandfather is that he doesn't treat me like his youngest grandchild -- he treats me like a best friend. His ability to laugh at himself, even through some of his hardest times, is absolutely inspirational to me and is a lesson I will carry with me throughout my entire life. Hopefully one day I will be listening to books on tape, sitting in some sunshine on the front enclosed porch surrounded by all of my family members. (credit:Alanna Vagianos)

(05 of60)

Today in Seattle, a Grandmother and Grandfather whisked away their seven year old grandson (our son) on an impromptu adventure. Ever present to provide precious back-up help when our daily schedules explode, they stepped in to care for him at the last minute. Text-savvy Grandpa sent snapshots over the course of the day. The last pic sent was, of course, the best; Grandma and Grandson riding a camel! The smile on Grandma's face atop the camel captures the gift that she and Grandpa are in the life of our little family. They shower us with wisdom, unconditional love, empathy, kindness and patience. And most importantly they take every opportunity they can find to help us see the joy that is in our world!Mary, Joe & PaddySeattle, Washington (credit:Mary Mahar)

(06 of60)

My father's father, Arthur St. John, was a significant influence on me. When I knew him, he was completely bedridden with Rheumatoid Arthritis and while his body was not in prefect form, his spirit was. I'm sure he had his dark days, but I never saw them. I'm told that he taught me how to talk (my crib was next to his bed), much to the dismay of some people who wish I would stop:) I remember him teaching me how to spell chrysanthemum, by breaking it down into syllables. But the thing I remember the most is his advice, "Every day give yourself something to look forward to." If a man suffering from a crippling and painful disease can maintain that philosophy, I can do my best to keep that perspective. Sometimes it's a simple thing, like how nice the weather will be that day or the fact that I will spend time with one of my grandchildren. Which brings me to part two.We have 7 grandchildren (the five middle ages are in the enclosed photo), ranging in age 21 to 2. If I could do only one thing for them, it would be to help them be strong in spirit and and make their way with kindness and compassion. Keeping that in mind, helps me to do the same because I believe children are watching they will learn more from what they see you do rather than your words. We talk about good Karma, tolerance, acceptance and keeping your word. I am only one piece in the "raising the child" puzzle, but I will try my best to be the nurturing kind of influence my grandfather was for me. And I listen to them, for they are wonderful teachers as well and keep me in a learning frame of mind. For example, once when we were hiking my grandson (who was 5 at the time), said he would lead because the one with the best sense of humor should be the leader. You don't get advice much better than that! (credit:Linda McKenney)

(07 of60)

At some point I realized that my grandmother made me. She's a beautiful walking contradiction.She taught me to properly use silverware at dinner parties, cross my legs while seated, and speak appropriately to my elders. But she also taught me to fish, camp, and ride a bike. She is the picture of a Southern Lady, and yet a fierce feminist, who instilled that I alone am in charge of my body and my choices. She drove me to ballet lessons and brought flowers to recitals, but she also took me to tour universities, historic sites, and battlefields. She comforted me throughmy teenage years, and helped me find my backbone in my twenties. Now, in my thirties, she is my friend; a fiercely loyal companion in a way that only a grandmother can be. I watch her with my two little girls -- having tea parties, blowing bubbles, and riding bikes -- and I know how fortunate I am. How fortunate they are. It’s like watching my childhood on replay, and it’s beyond special.But mostly, it makes me grateful because without this woman, I don’t exist. My strength, confidence, individualism, dedication to family. It’s all her. She nurtured me from child to woman, and now she’s planting a few seeds in my daughters as well. I know it’s up to me to help them grow. In that way she will be with me forever, and that’s important, because I can’t live without her. (credit:Kathleen Taylor)

(08 of60)

With so many grandchildren (17 of them), ranging in age from less than 1 to nearly 27 years old, I enjoy doing anything and everything with them. Just cuddling the babies and talking to them, having picnics (indoor or outdoor) with the toddlers, taking walks to the park, reading books, and talking to the older ones about things that matter to them -- WHAT we do doesn’t matter -- THAT we spend time together does. Sadly, only 3 of my grandkids live close to me, but with phones and Skype and lots of birthday parties spread out throughout the year, we have plenty of times to connect. What I want for my grandchildren is for them to find their own personal joy in doing whatever brings them fulfillment. I want them to be compassionate and caring (they already are) and use their various creative gifts to better their own lives and the lives of everyone around them. Above all, I want them to know that they are truly loved AND lovable.My dream was to get all of them together in one place at the same time and, as you can see by the photo included, that’s exactly what happened! Just this past weekend, my two great-granddaughters celebrated their birthdays and I gathered all of them together with me to take this photo. I feel so blessed to part of all of their lives. And I am grateful to their parents (my “children”), who raised my precious grandkids. (credit:Kathleen Jimenez)

(09 of60)

I no longer have a photo of my grandmother -- I remember an old, worn sepia photo of her wearing a gingham dress, her black hair falling in braids on either side of her head, holding an old revolver, the barrel of which is nearly as long as her arm. She is unsmiling in the photo -- but she had a wicked sense of humor. She was tiny, barely five feet tall, but she could grab a five pound rooster by the neck and snap its head off with a few deft swings. She didn’t have a lot of formal education, but she was smarter than anyone I’ve ever known. She raised me from around the time I was twelve or thirteen, until I graduated from high school and joined the army, because I’d had some problems with my stepfather, and it was decided that relocation was in both our interests.I remember much about her -- so much that when I wrote my first book on leadership, it was about her and the things I learned from her. But, what I remember most vividly was what she said when I first went to live with her. Feeling that I was a failure for not being able to get along with my stepfather, I was really down. Her response: It’s not as important what other people think about you -- but, what you think about yourself. Never ever think you’re a failure, because if you do, you’ll be right. (credit:Charles A. Ray)

(10 of60)

Sunday, September 7th is Grandparent’s Day here in the United States. It’s a day that’s been disparaged as a “Hallmark holiday” and called out for being redundant. Didn’t we already celebrate the grandparents on Mother’s and Father’s Day?I get the objections. Certainly, in our family, the Grandmas are celebrated on Mother’s Day, and when Grandpa was alive, we always sent a gift and talked with him on Father’s Day. And yet, I just can’t seem to muster cynicism for a holiday set aside to honor the grandest people in my and my child’s life.I hold some pretty strong beliefs about the importance of “The Grands”, as one friend calls them. I was lucky enough to have some terrific grandparents. My grandmother was my #1 cheerleader. On the surface, our lives could not have been more different. She married, had 4 kids by the age of 26, stayed home full-time to raise them, and never travelled outside the United States.I, on the other hand, travelled around the world by 26, married at 40, had my first child at 45, and have worked outside the home since I was 16. But, she always told me how much we were the same; and somehow we were.From where I sat, she embodied all the best of what a grandparent can be for a child -- the source of truly, madly, deeply, unconditional love. It didn’t matter what I did, Grandma thought I rocked. When I got accepted to grad school, granddad was perplexed by why I’d want to spend even more time going to college. Grandma thought it was awesome. When I spent a year traveling the world, Grandma thought it was a grand adventure, and wanted to see all the pictures and hear all the stories. And when I hit my first big bump in the road, getting laid off from a job I loved, she knew it was just the door to new opportunities.When I came back to visit she’d always have a fresh batch of her famous (and my favorite) shortbread cookies awaiting me in the same rectangular Tupperware container….every time I visited. If I surprised her by showing up with no notice, she’d pull shortbread cookies from the freezer. You can never be too prepared with cookies.She had a raspy singing voice, and loved to use it. We’d often hear her in the kitchen singing, “Get out in that kitchen start rattlin’ those pots and pans”. I was 30 years old before I realized she was covering Elvis. She also used song to tell us precisely how much we were loved -- a bushel and a peck.Before she was GrandmaShe embodied the best of what a grandparent can be for a child -– the source of truly, madly, deeply unconditional love. Although my child never got to meet my grandmother, that song’s made the transition across the generations; she also knows she’s loved a bushel and a peck. And she is equally lucky to be surrounded by her own small village of nurturing grandparents (and god-parents), who shower her with love and acceptance.Researchers tell us that kids with close grand-parental bonds tend to have better emotional well-being and to weather family challenges, like divorce, more easily. For those who have close grandparents, that research is old news. We know in our bones that grandparents can provide a special kind of judgment-free love that feels like a solid foundation beneath you.So, the idea that we might set aside a day to honor Grandparents? Well, what a lovely opportunity to thank them again for the wonderful, important role they play in our, and our kids’, lives. Even if we already gave them a gift for Mother’s and Father’s Day! (credit:Deb Whitman)

(11 of60)

Introduction: Last night I watched the “Who Do You Think You Are” episode that featured Rita Wilson and her journey to discover more about her father’s life before he arrived in America. I was so moved by the story, not only for the sheer drama of the tale, but also in the “mirror” similarities between Ms. Wilson’s father’s story and my mother’s. You see, as her father was a Muslim man, born in Greece who endured extreme hardship but came to America for a better life -– my mother was a Greek woman, born in Turkey -- who also endured difficulties and who came to America, never to live again in the country she loved so much. It also seems that our parents, Ms. Wilson’s father and my mother spent time in Plovdiv, Bulgaria -- another weird similarity! After watching the episode, I decided to try to find an address either for Ms. Wilson or for the show, so I could share my affection for the show and to thank Ms. Wilson for such a wonderful episode that reminded me of my mom. When I googled “Rita Wilson” and found the Huffington Post piece asking for inspirational stories -- I knew I had to write. My mother passed away almost a year ago -- September 11, 2013 but she left her 3 daughters and 4 granddaughters her memoirs -- a testimony to her amazing journey on this planet.Maria Constantinides Pulos was born in a little village in Asia Minor (present day south central Turkey) February 20, 1918. In her memoirs, (which she wrote when she was in her 70’s) she writes of the wonderful aromas that she associated with the village; apricots, grapes, bread baking in the tandoori ovens and of her peaceful and loving childhood. Eventually the politics in Greece and Turkey forced her family to leave Asia Minor and she, her mother and little brother followed their father to Plovdiv, Bulgaria where she lived from 1924 to 1935 -- during her early childhood years. It was in Plovdiv around Easter time in 1928, that my mother and her family survived a devastating earthquake. Their home was destroyed and they lived in the public park in a tent until a new residence could be found. Once again the politics of the time impacted my mother and her family and in the fall of 1935, when my mom was 17 years old, she and her family were displaced from their home once again -- this time they headed for Athens. In my mother’s memoirs, she writes of the difficulty of transitioning to another home in another country -- even though she and her family were Greek, living in Greece, the adjustment was still hard. None of that hardship however, compares to life in Athens during the Nazi occupation. She writes of knitting a pair of socks a day, so much that her hands and shoulders ached to send socks to the Greek soldiers freezing to death at the front. How she worked in a hospital filled with wounded German soldiers and at great risk of getting caught, stuffed uneaten food from their patient trays into her pockets, to bring extra food home to family. Eventually a German officer came to live in the home with my mother and her family -- they had no choice, obviously, but lived with the fear that if something went wrong -- the Germans could take it out on any of them. Throughout this difficult and challenging time, my mother also writes of experiencing her first kiss….and her thoughts on romance and her future. A remarkable testament to the human tendency to persevere and to look for the bright side of any awful situation. Eventually, the war ended and my mother, like so many of her generation, decided her future was in America. She applied for and was accepted into a program that placed young Europeans, recovering from WWII into American universities. It is for this reason that my mother ended up in Lincoln, Nebraska as one of two foreign exchange students at the University of Nebraska. When my mother left her family behind in Greece, her plans were to graduate from an American University and return to Greece to help rebuild her country destroyed by WWII and a civil war -- little did she know in the fall of 1947, that within three years she would marry and have her first child.My mother Maria met my father Christos Pulos -- the son of Greek immigrants, and the two were married in the summer of 1949. No one from her family made the trip from Greece to Nebraska to attend the wedding -- and in fact her parents would never come to America. My sister Elizabeth was born in the spring of 1950 the same year my mother received a Bachelor’s degree in Home Economics majoring in dietetics from UNL.A remarkable feat for any woman in 1950 America -- let alone a student from Greece with English as her 2nd language. Another daughter, my sister, was born in the spring of 1952. My mother became an official US citizen in 1955 and in the same year my mother, her husband and two small children travelled to Greece. This would be my mother’s first visit home since her arrival in America in 1947. She introduced her husband and children to her parents for the first time. It wasn’t until I became a mother myself that I understood how wonderful that trip must have been for my mother and grandparents. I was born in the summer of 1958 and our family did not return to Greece until 1967 -- 9 years after my birth and 12 years since their last visit. What was it like to not see your own mother for 12 years? How many times did my mother long to get advice from her own mother? My mother taught me many things -- and my own daughters were lucky enough to live in the same city as their yia-yia and benefit from her loving influence. When my mother passed, her oldest granddaughter (my daughter) was living in Nepal and wrote the following as a testament to her grandmother. Life works in mysterious ways. On September 11th my sweet Yia-Yia passed away in her sleep. Many of you met her, more than likely had your hand held by her, and while talking to her, watched her face light up with a smile at what she thought she heard you say. She lived a fascinating 95 years in this world, coming to America after WWII to study at UNL, meeting my handsome grandfather and never returning to her own family but beginning her own in Lincoln Nebraska. More than anyone else my Yia Yia taught me some of the most important things in life a woman should know.1. Stop and play with the “tickly ants” that line the layers of the peony plants in the garden.2. Always indulge in an afternoon snack.3. Never slide down a slide in pumps; you'll break your ankle 4. Keep your wedding ring on at all times, even after 14 years of being a widow5. Be a really good friend and sister in law 6. Take a boat instead of a plane whenever you can, you might meet a movie star 7. Its ok to leave everything that is normal and safe in the hopes of an amazing adventure 8. Keep mints, Kleenex, a $20 bill, and a comb in your handbag at all times and;9. The last words my Yia-Yia told me and Chip was to love each other and the people around us. (credit:Cathy Beedle)

(12 of60)

Cooking by HeartWhen I think of my Grandma Gladys, I smell pot roast. We are in her kitchen in Rochester NY, a spotless sanctuary with a worn linoleum floor and a little door in the wall where the milkman put the milk and eggs. She is wearing an apron, of course. And so am I.My grandmother did not own a cookbook. With just a fourth-grade education, she had no use for things that were written down. As a young woman in Scranton PA, she worked as a cook in an orphanage. In her mind, you learned to cook by doing it with someone who knew how – and then did it yourself. I was full of questions. “How much flour, Grandma?” “Enough,” was her answer. “How big do I cut the carrots?” “It depends on the carrots,” she would say. “How long does it cook?” “Until it’s done,” she said. Eventually, my mother put my grandmother’s recipes for pot roast and Welsh Cookies on 3 x 5 cards, now tucked into Mom’s Joy of Cooking, on a shelf in my one of my sister’s kitchens. In a frame on the wall of my kitchen, I have one of my Grandmother’s aprons. It’s there to remind me of what I learned from her: to pay attention, use common sense and stick around. That who you are is more important than where you came from. That the food which feeds body and soul is made the way she cooked – by heart. (credit:Denise Osso)

(13 of60)

Like many parents before me, the birth of my son prompted a move that would bring us closer to family. The main benefit of the move was to bring us closer to my parents whom my son, Graeson, fondly refers to as GG and Papa. Graeson was only 3 months old at the time of the move, but it was important to me for my son to be surrounded by the love of a large and close knit family. Because I have a very good relationship with my parents, I knew my son would too. Even so, it is such a gift to watch the incredible bond that has formed between Grae (now 2) and his GG and Papa.In Grae’s eyes, Papa hung the moon. If you want Grae to eat his carrots, tell him that Papa loves carrots. His favorite shorts? Cargo shorts, because they have pockets just like Papa’s! Even with his limited vocabulary, Graeson can tell you all about how he is going to go fishing on the boat with Papa. He can even tell you about his trip to “Lake Taco” (Lake Tahoe) with Papa. We are so blessed to be a part of such an incredible family made up of the best kind of people. Grandparents like GG & Papa are one in a million and I am thankful every day for their love and support! This photo is of Graeson stealing one last kiss from Papa before leaving for the day. Priceless! (credit:Jessica P. Patrick)

(14 of60)

With my personal Part B signing day only a month away, I am often asked if I am retired. No, and I have no current plans to be so. I am self-employed and continue to find great joy in what I do every day. But I also have a goal in continuing to work, one that is part of an ongoing conversation many of us are having, “How will our kids pay for college for our grandkids?”The higher education my wife and I were able to provide our children positioned them well to becoming contributing members of society, but they now lie awake at night worrying how they will be able to provide the same. I want to be part of their solution.The cost of college has spiraled beyond reason. Student debt burdens our brightest minds for decades. As much as I want my children to be less burdened by the stress of worry, I want even more for my precious grandchildren, Lucy, Alice and Jack, to not be prevented because of cost from developing their already inquisitive and eager minds to the fullest. I want for them to become life-long learners free to achieve whatever it is they are able.By Grandparents Day, I will have two more grandsons. My son and daughter-in-law are expecting twins this coming week. I do not yet know their names, but I know I love them already and I know I want to attend their college graduation, if they so choose. (credit:Michael Todd)

(15 of60)

My grandma, Eleanor Magid, is an artist, photographer and graphic designer. Many of her paintings and prints focus on the idea of apeaceable kingdom. With this project she has encouraged artists and people who view her work to envision pathways to creating a morepeaceful world. When Trayvon Martin was killed, my grandmother could tell I was very upset. She came with me to the million hoodies march and talked to some of my friends about her own ideas of a peaceablekingdom, a society that not only included equality and justice but also synergy among people with varying experience. It was one of the most radical and effecting things I have ever seen someone do.My grandma is also something of a tech wiz, and good thing too, she knows how to maneuver the social media around these protests as well as anyone my age. She keeps everyone around her on their toes,challenging our ideas about the world and how we should change it, both in both the analog and the digital world. (credit:Amity Paye)

(16 of60)

My grandmother, Raisa, just turned 70 years old and shows no signs of slowing down. She is the true matriarch of our family. She is the center of our family's universe. Even though she is done raising her children, and us, the older grandchildren, she is not done. She is extremely involved in raising her two youngest grandchildren (both under 5), and her 1st great-grand daughter (my daughter). Aside from babysitting daily, she somehow manages to help us with the laundry, food shopping while we're at work, AND still has the energy to keep up with Sunday family dinners. Although grandma is a superstar on her own, she wouldn't be complete without her other half, a husband of 52 years, our grandfather Eduard. Together they are an inspiring team. Always working together -- they support each other and the rest of the family. It is amazing how solid and full of love their relationship is. We don't tell them nearly enough, but we love and appreciate them very much! (credit: Irina Krylova)

(17 of60)

Grandmother’s PearlsMy earliest memory of my immigrant grandmother involves sitting on her lap and playing with the long strand of pearls she often wore tied in an artful knot near the bottom. As I got older I’d beg for stories of her original home in Ukraine. Interwoven in the events of her life were the acquisition of the pearls, and how with each gift of pearls the necklace grew longer.Grandmother experienced home-schooling in a small agricultural village in the Ukraine. Amazing everyone, as a Jew and a female in 1910 she was accepted for study at the University in Kiev. Extreme anti-Semitic sentiment due to the Beilis case forced her return home. Looking at her community with fresh eyes, she became aware that the Christian farm workers were illiterate. Despite the dangers of disobeying the law she convinced her family to help her form a “secret” school in the basement of her father’s small grain mill. “I had to do what was right.” Discovery and the threat of imprisonment caused flight to Paris and later New York where she married.Later Grandmother marched with Margaret Sanger for birth control rights, was friends with Golda Meir in Wisconsin, and discussed Russian politics with John Reid and Emma Goldman. She designed clothing in the New York garment district and eventually was a successful divorced single mother when divorces didn’t happen. Grandmother’s “pearls of wisdom” each spoke to my inspiration: “Stand up and do what you believe to be right!” (credit:Sheila Stillman)

(18 of60)

My mom and dad with my son. These two have been the best grandparents my son could have. We are currently stationed in a different state but that doesn't stop them from seeing Eli. He is their world. I don't know what I would do without them. In a few weeks they are taking me and Eli in as my husband deploys for 6 months. Love them both with all of my heart. (credit:Ronna Poole)

(19 of60)

My Grandma, Mae KariSmack in the middle of two brothers and two sisters, my grandma’s house was a sweet refuge far from my chaotic crowded house. Divorced and alone for the first time, I was often asked to spend the night, especially during thunderstorms. I was her favorite and we both knew it.We listened to Jim Reeves on the stereo and watched Lawrence Welk on television. We played cards, cooked a little, talked a lot, and simply enjoyed each other’s company. We went to the “Holiday on Ice” show, and shopped for school clothes. She would grip my hand so tight it hurt, hurrying me across the busy downtown street. At night I slept between freshly washed sheets a heavy quilt creating a spot so comfy I wouldn’t emerge until late morning, unheard of at my house.We worked. We raked leaves, weeded strawberries and planted flowers. We washed windows, shoveled snow, and cleaned the bird bath. Together we cleaned summer homes on the shores of Lake Michigan.Headed for college I went to say goodbye. Not overly demonstrative, my grandma hugged me so tight, and told me she loved me. Tears flowed from both of us. She was happy for me and very proud, but sad our time together was ending. From her I learned the value of hard work, determination and independence. Her life had been tough but she never gave up. She was always there, waiting on her screened porch for me to come and visit. (credit:Gina Lorenson)

(20 of60)

Neither my dad nor my kids read the "Huffington Post" so I know they won't submit this. I'm the mom and the daughter who lives in between them. Eli was a science teacher and coach for 35 years. Since retiring, he has become an artist and more specifically a print maker. He lives alone, gardens, cooks, reads, sings in a community chorus and writes poetry. He has good genes but more importantly he lives with such spirit - intentionally making each day a good day. The photos attached were taken a few weeks ago. You must look at the pictures to see that he doesn’t look 87 years old!He is the only grandfather his seven grandchildren ever knew (and now the only surviving grandparent). His childlike spirit delighted them when they were young because he truly knew how to play with them. From him they learned about tide pools, the stars, caves, butterflies and how to tell a magical story. Because he lived far away he and my mother traveled thousands of miles to put in the time that only grandparents can. Today the grandchildren, though busy living their young adult lives around the country, know what a treasure he is and how lucky they still are to have such a remarkable man in their lives. (credit:Theresa Wiza)

(21 of60)

I am a 35 year old, single mom of a pretty fantastic 19 month old. After my dad died suddenly and my grandmother died of complications with Alzheimer's, my Grandpa (now 85) moved in with with my mom (recently turned 60). Despite their busy, very active lives, when I had my baby and raised I'd be doing it 100% alone, they convinced me to move in also. We live in a 4 generation house, and the saying 'it takes a village' is so us. One single tiny human being had taken over our lives and brought HAPPY back to this family. They are so amazing, I could go on for weeks. If anyone should be honored for grandparents day, it is my baby's YiaYia (Greek for grandma) and her Great Papa! They are my daughter, Emma's very best friends. They deserve the world and more. Sincerely, Sarah Quick (credit:Sarah Quick)

(22 of60)

My grandparents are not only the head of my family, they are the heart of my family. They are wisdom, warmth, hard work, and determination. They are patience, love, crinkled laughter, and quick wit. They are the legacy of a generation that has sacrificed, and survived, more than I can ever thank them for. Sharing my graduation with my grandma and grandpa is a moment I will never forget, and I couldn't be prouder to have these two by my side. (credit:Chelsea Richards)

(23 of60)

I have three grandchildren as of today. (A fourth is on the way and will be here soon.) I love reading to my grandchildren and can’t think of anything more delicious than snuggling up with a book and a baby. I love to get them to sing with me. The two older ones like to sing “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little R” because of the necklace I wear that has my first name initial on it. It began as a joke with my granddaughter when she was around two years old. Now we give that “R” a pirate trill, so it’s more like “Arrrrrrrrrrrrr!”I love making my grandchildren laugh. A child's giggle is a joyful sound I can't get enough of. Sometimes we dance or make funny noises or fall down. We have our own “in jokes,” and as they grow older, I hope that will continue. If I can impart any lessons, I hope they would have to do with seeing the humor in everyday situations, but knowing that sometimes we have to be serious. I would also hope that they learn to love books as much as I do, because reading allows us to imagine, to learn, to laugh, and to keep a sense of wonder about the world. (credit:Risa Nye)

(24 of60)

My Grandmother is by far the most selfless person I know. When my nineteen-year-old mother became pregnant and gave birth to twins, she was supportive and helpful despite the less-than-desirable circumstances. After my parents decided they could no longer take care of us, she and my Grandfather decided to take us in and raise us at a time that was supposed to be the golden years of their lives. Because of her, I had a healthy and normal childhood that my previous circumstances would have never afforded. She now continues to dedicate her life to helping others by taking care of my grandfather, as he suffered a near-fatal brain aneurysm when I was twelve. Through all the negativity life has brought her, she always finds a way to make a positive impact and enrich the lives of others, and I can think of no one who deserves my thanks and appreciation more. This photo is my grandmother, grandfather, and I at my sister's wedding last May. (credit:Haley Pierce )

(25 of60)

(credit:Dr. Emily Judd)

(26 of60)

In high school, I would take the public bus home which would drop me off a half-block from my front doorstep. As soon as the bus passed my house, I would always see my grandmother, my Boya -- as all her grandchildren called her instead of the traditional, Abuela -– already standing in front of our house waiting for me. When I would see her there, I would automatically roll my eyes, frustrated that my 70-something-year-old Mexican grandmother still treated me -- a mature 15-year old young woman -- like a little kid who needed to be watched like a hawk. But she always insisted on keeping an eye out for me because of the “dangers” that lurked in that half-block. She continued standing watch as my sister and I grew up and graduated from high school then moved on to the university. One month after my college graduation, my beautiful, tough, amazing Boya lost her short battle against pancreatic cancer. Seeing her succumb to such a horrible illness was both heartbreaking and overwhelming. I always think back to my bus trips home from school and her constant vigil over me. I can only dream of those days of walking half a block to her smile, her hugs or even to her lectures. Yet, almost 20 years after her death, I know she still guides me, watching over me as I continue my journey, making sure I always reach home safe and sound. Gracias, Boya. I miss you. (credit:Jennifer Ramon)

(27 of60)

My nana and papa are the most inspiring and influential people in my life. Being married for over 67 years, having seven children, and dealing with over thirty grandchildren has given them nothing but joy (or so they say). In their lives they have broken through obstacles, such as life-threatening injuries and illnesses, and no matter what they go through their main priority is to express love in any form possible. Hearing them bicker at each other about my papa no longer wants the dinner she made him and how he calls her vodka "medicine" gives me hope for my future love; their relationship is so perfect, stress-free, and humorous I can't wait to have marriage like that. My papa talks about how money isn't everything and that family is always first, even when someone isn't doing as well as you. And my nana tells me when I know I have true love to never let it go. I wish I could spend my entire life with them. My grandparents are the most wonderful, caring, loving, kind and amazing people in the entire world. Sadly, this is the only picture I have of them (they were told to make a funny face with me). (credit:Sarah Frey)

(28 of60)

My Grandmother Was An Angel Among UsBy Cathy ChesterSometimes there are angels among us and you don’t realize it until after they’re gone. That was not the case with my grandmother. Nanny, my maternal grandmother, lived with us for ten years. She taught my friends and me how to sew Barbie dresses, created the most delicious stuffed cabbage I’ve ever tasted, meticulously washed and ironed our clothes, and patiently repeated, upon my request, the same story about her escape as a little girl from czarist Russia. The youngest of six children, my grandmother’s life was often a difficult one, but you’d never know it. Her Hebrew name was “Fagel” meaning “bird”, a perfect name for her because she was petite, lovely and lit from within. She treated everyone with kindness, and it showed in the way people adored her. Our rabbi loved her; she was a faithful congregant. When I asked her why she needed to fast for her sins on Yom Kippur, believing she had none, she’d answer, “Because I carry a pocketbook on Shabbat.” Indeed.Nanny looms large in my life to this day. I learned by her example to be kind to others, show compassion for the less fortunate, and to never leave home without lipstick. She always dressed like a lady, took care of her flawless skin with Pond’s Cold Cream, and loved to laugh. After she passed away, I had a dream we were stretching our hands to grasp one another. Although she is gone now, we will always be holding hands. (credit:Cathy Chester)

(29 of60)

JudithBy: Raelin RandallHer name is Judith but to me she is Ma, and she is the strongest woman I know. Ma has always been the back bone of our family. She stood strong and constant when we moved over six hours away. She, even after the loss of husbands and a son, remained positive and loving. She inspires me every day to develop my relationship with God, and to keep my relationship growing with my family no matter the distance. Ma always believed in me, even throughout my high-school rebellion and red hair, and she never wavered in her love. My family and I lived a couple of miles from Ma for a chunk of my early childhood. One memory that I remember the most is before we moved away, I gave Ma some candles that I had wrapped the bottoms in tin foil. I told her that whenever she missed my brother and me, to light them and know that we were thinking of her too. We were gone for many months, but finally came home to visit. I remember seeing those candles burnt almost down to the base, and running to her and giving her the biggest bear hug I could muster. Ma still bakes her famous red velvet cake, works out often, and remains one of the strings to my heart. She represents something that I one day want to be for my grandchildren, unconditional love and a home away from home. (credit:Raelin Randall)

(30 of60)

After 20 years in the U.S. Army and 30 years as a diplomat, being transferred to a different location in the world about every two to three years, I’d come to think that I’d never be a good grandfather. I remember my own grandmother, who served as something of an anchor for the family, never very far away. Even though I retired from government service in 2012, with consulting jobs and public speaking engagements, I’m on the road almost as much as I was during my ‘active’ years. Not exactly the picture of your average grandfather -– something I swore I’d never be.Well, in 2011, my first granddaughter, Samantha was born, and Catherine came along in 2013, and the three of us have been on a voyage of discovery ever since. I’ve learned that it’s not the amount of time you spend with children that counts, but the quality of that time. My own grandmother taught me and helped set me on the course I took, and I’ve resolved to do the same with my young’uns.I want them to grow up with self-confidence, but without arrogance; with courage, but without foolhardiness, and with the capacity to love without becoming obsessed with anything or anyone. I want them to grow up refusing to let their gender restrict them. They will learn from me to take risks; to fall down, but to always get back up. Most of all, I want to teach them to leave the world a better place. (credit:Charles A. Ray)

(31 of60)

We lost my grandmother, Fern, in June. She was more like a mother to me, especially incredible because she grew up without hers. Her parents were divorced when she was young. She and her brother lived with their mother but visited their father during the summers to work in the fields, along with his second wife and their children. One summer they received news their mother had died in a car accident.Life with her father was a nightmare. He was a terrible, hateful, man who beat his kids for any reason he could think of. She often stepped in to take the beatings for her younger siblings, wasn’t allowed to bring homework from school (because women weren’t good for nothing but cooking and cleaning), and had to share bath water with all of the siblings as she was always last to bathe.When she came of age she wrote a letter to two different suitors, telling them what she had done and she would marry whoever got there first. My Grandfather got there first.It wasn’t until maybe 60 years later she learned that her mother had not died. Their mother was told the same lie about them and they were able to spend a few years together before her mother passed.I miss her every day, thank you for this opportunity to share with so many how amazing she was. (credit:Vanessa Jehangiri)

(32 of60)

Taylor and KatieMy GirlsNot only do my granddaughters love hearing stories of days gone by they also enjoy learning things that my Memma and great-grandmother taught me. There is such a difference in growing up on a farm to life in the city. I share with them the typical farm day from waking before dawn to a breakfast of eggs, bacon and homemade biscuits to going with my Memma to the hen house to gather the eggs. Later, we would walk down to the barn to milk the cow. No day was complete without climbing the Mulberry tree. Too, there were days filled with picking cotton and gathering vegetables from the garden. The girls love hearing these stories. I have often taken them back to the country to visit my Aunts who still garden and canthe fresh vegetables. Taylor has learned to bake and embroidery her initials on a squareof cloth that was later used in making a quilt for her dolls. Katie likes to "stir" anything that is in a bowl and they both like to lick thespoon. Being an artist, a favorite pastime is to let them express themselves on canvas. We love spending time together on the beach building sandcastles and collecting seashells.I am so happy to be able to share so many things that were passed down to me. And, am so thankful that they love spending time with their Mimi. (credit:Brenda Luczynski)

(33 of60)

The Wonderful Oneness of AllSuzanne McLain RosenwasserAugust 20, 2014My grand-daughter has said her first word recently, and it’s: "Hi!”Is that a terrific first word or what?She says it to everybody and everything. “Hi!” she says to the lady quietly approaching her cart in the grocery store. “Hi!” she says to the dog walking toward us on a leash and “Hi!” to the dog’s owner, as he passes by. “Hi!” to the scarecrow on our neighbor’s lawn and “Hi!” to the creepy ghosts flying from the tree branches.The baby hears a bird and points up to the tree: “Hi!” she calls, and “HI!” to the postal lady driving by in the truck and “Hi!” to Sr. Salvador who tips his hat while mowing a lawn.They all say “Hi!” back in their own way, even the ghostly sheets appear to blow more strongly in the breeze. And it may be just a simple “Hi!” but I’ve seen it make the day of perfect strangers over and over again.An elderly couple exited a building, assisted by walkers the other day. Hearing this chirpy “Hi!”, they stopped in their tracks.“Well, hello, little one,” the lady said. “How nice to hear such a sweet hello. And with a cheery smile too? Oh my goodness, how lucky I am.” The woman chortled and chatted while her husband stood behind her making faces and popping noises from his mouth as he must have done for all the babies in his life. My grand-daughter flapped her arms and chortled back: “Hi! Hi!” EiEi! Hi!” -- adding the signature sound to her ultimate greeting for those who totally experience the joy of being in that moment with her.I’ve said every month -- “Oh she’s cuter than she’s ever been...” but this month -- this tenth month has to be the one that tops the others. If she gets any sweeter, I will melt.I am grandmother, hear me gush.Those smiles. That laugh. Those arms reaching out to me. That sloppy wet kiss and the instant, down dog that interrupts even the most serious oatmeal box play. When I see my daughter, the child’s mother, we just exchange a look of love about this off-spring and then utter, simultaneously: “I knowwwwww,” shaking our heads with thumping hearts because there are just no words left to say what we’re feeling.No words except: “Hi!” which just rings through the air with a purity only a baby can give to her first word.“Hi!” she says to me when I’m feeding her and “Hi!” again -- with a wave this time -- when she looks around the corner of her stroller at her grandpop pushing behind. “Hi!” to the squirrel who skitters past us on the road. “Hi!” to the breeze when it rustles through her hair.We are such open spirits when we’re new...when our words are new and the world is new to our new grandparents who see their own children anew with each and every “Hi!”What is it, I wonder -- this wonderful oneness with all -- and where, oh where does it go? (credit:Suzanne Rosenwasser)

(34 of60)

My grandmother, Beatrice Biddle ("Meema" to the family), is 94 years old and truly an inspiration to our entire family. As a soft-spoken matriarch, she has enriched our lives through her wisdom, knowledge and approach to life. Gleaned through the experience of her nine-plus decades, beginning with her hard-scrabble adolescence as the daughter of a grocery proprietor during the depression, continuing through the marriage of a Holocaust-surviving refugee, she has always displayed quiet strength and an approach befitting her mantra, "I Keep Going."Beginning each day with 30 minutes of calisthenics, a cup of coffee and the L.A. Times, Meema has kept active both physically and mentally. This underscores her approach to living and has given perspective to what is now three generations of her descendants. My wife and I recently had our first child, Felix. We take him to visit Meema as often as possible, hoping that he can realize -- even spiritually -- what an inspiration this wonderful woman really is to the family. I have attached a picture of the Meema and Felix in a very tender moment that was taken at Meema's apartment. We have framed this photograph and hope that it is cherished for many years to come. In the meantime, we all will do our best to Keep Going. (credit:Evan Lovett)

(35 of60)

My beautiful, dearest and sweetest grandmother is the most important person in the world to me. She is the best role model you could imagine. She is my hero, my light, my rock and the strongest, kindest, most intelligent woman I know. My grandmother is the definition of love and she means everything to me. When I was a little girl my father was diagnosed with terminal cancer and my life changed. My dad was always in hospital and my mom stayed with him all the time so me and my younger sisters lived with our grandmother. She took care of us most of the time. She managed to make a better life for all of us. My grandmother enriched and influenced my life with her teachings. I learned so much about love, support, strength, courage, determination and discipline from her. She inspired me to be a better person. Nowadays my grandmother has Alzheimer’s disease. She has always been strong, high-energy, special, fashionable and lovely but now she doesn’t feel good. She doesn’t know who I am anymore and I’m heartbroken to see her conditions. This wonderful, amazing and extraordinary woman, who sacrificed herself for my family sake, needs our help. So me and my family take care of her now. This is our turn to help her and this is our way to thank her. Grandma, I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you very much for teaching me what love is. I love you more then everything! (credit:Katia Ingarozza)

(36 of60)

I was a young grandma......Now that my grandchildren are all teenagers, my favorite thing to do with each of them is to talk. I try to share with them my knowledge of situations and outcomes, good & bad. Three of them are in high school, and two are in middle school, so I try to discuss pertinent matters. Drugs, sex, bullying, all things that were around when I was younger, but not as prevalent, are in our casual discussions. Since I have a wonderful rapport with them and have been there for them since birth, I am hoping they will consider what I have to say as my way of saying I really love them and only want the best for them. I would lay down my life for these kids.(I am the short "kid" in stripes, in the middle)

(37 of60)

I love my role as a first time grandma to a smart currently two-year-old grandson Rashoad Crosson, Jr., RJ for short.My grandson is so awesome. In our special time we create space for a book play date that we are creating at the local library for him or anyone in the area to come and share an hour on a Sunday afternoon from 2-3pm. We review picture books question and answer period other small activities.He loves the library.Our other special moment is Chuck E. Cheese. Rj is very entertained by the activities and rides.I believe we grandparents should be a part formulating stability in their lives. It give them some stepping stones to a brighter future. We are to share stories and be a part of their growth and development which is nurturing. I have always been a part of outside groups which enhanced my spirits to work with my kids and now my grandson. (credit:Sherlene Lucas)

(38 of60)

My Grandmother's Worldby Miriam HendelesAs a teenager in the 1970s, I recall my grandmother dreaming of writing a best-seller full of her grandchildren's genius remarks. Compiling her notes into a small spiral notebook, she read parts of her manuscript to us at the dinner table. We chuckled at the material, not sure her submission would be accepted by a publisher, while relishing how special Grandma believed we all were.Years later, my grandmother's ambitions continued. Taking art lessons when in her 80s and 90s at the end of her life, Grandma painted fruit, flowers and landscapes, passing out canvases of her work atfamily events. Some of her beautiful, signed paintings hang on the walls in my home, warming my heart and reminding me to be creative and original.My grandmother continually sought opportunities to grow. She spoke seven languages, but took Hebrew at the local Y. Grandma helped me with my French homework throughout high school, and found articles in the NY Times to use for school projects. Wednesday was for Grandma'ssocial time at the “senior citizens” center. On Fridays, my grandmother volunteered in a school office, stuffing envelopes andfiling.I remember enjoying our train rides together to visit cousins on weekends, while benefiting from her generous heart and keen mind.Now that I'm a grandmother myself, I value my grandmother's upbeat personality and ability to see good in others -- traits I hope toemulate when interacting with my own grandchildren. (credit:Miriam Hendeles)

(39 of60)

Dedicated to the Prince family's #1 supporter, and my mother-in-love: Marsha Wilson. (credit:Vee Beard)

(40 of60)

My name is Angela Moragne, (more-rainy). I am a grandparent of 5 adorable boys. I LOVE TESTOSTERONE so much I got them in grandsons. What I enjoy doing most with my fellas is working on our business. We own a small salsa company which specializes in salsa and chips. We do this to eliminate food deserts. This year we started our own plots, gardens and donations to families. Nothing huge but we did it. We not only plant, grow but also harvest our products. The boys, Angell who is 11, Gabriel, 9, DJ 4, Wade 2 all help out in one way or the other. Angell is shy but fakes it so much folks think he is outgoing. He is a sports fanatic and my name sake. Gabriel is laid back and cool as a breeze on a hot summer nite. He loves to help me paint my fixer upper which is always needing more work They are brothers. DJ is a card and LOVES to TALK and READ! Too smart for any age. Wade mostly eats all the tomatoes straight from the plant-he loves them! The boys say he is my fav and they are mostly right, I also named Mr Wade! He even has his own song; Jimmy Cliff I Can See Clearly Now. A close second is Sun Shiny Day by Bill Withers. He sings both but no one has a clue what he is saying. lol Dennis aka DT3 acts as our sales director. He not only has lived with me for the past 3 yrs, in that time, he also went from troubled youth to savvy salesman; he has been with TSL from the start. He recently was struck by a hit and run driver of a stolen vehicle. There are no suspects. Throughout the entire ordeal he kept his positive outlook and was grateful "I am still alive!" What I want to impart on my 4 boys is to always honor yourself first. For in honoring you, it is much simpler to honor others. I tell them, "Life is not that complicated so why try to complicate it?" (credit:Angela Moragne)

(41 of60)

I learned a long time ago to never seek or accept advice from people who aren’t where I want to be in life; which is why I only get advice from my grandmother, Joyce Hagan. She epitomizes strength and perseverance. She is a humble woman who will always create a place in her heart for anyone left lonely and I often find myself seeking her counsel, her guidance, and her shoulder when I need it. My grandmother became a widow when she was 30 years old after my grandfather died in a horrific accident on his job, the shock of that, the loss of her mother five months earlier and the idea of raising five children ages 4 months to 12 years old would’ve overwhelmed most people, but not my grandmother. She picked herself up, dusted herself off, and made no time for self-pity or complaints and she went to work. Leaving home every morning at dusk to cook at the hospital. She was to give her children a safe and stable home life, clothes on their backs and food on the table. I still marvel at how she did it. My grandmother is my best friend. The time I’ve spent in her kitchen, partaking in her wisdom and catching a good Sidney Poitier movie on TV are some of the greatest moments of my life. It’s a shame that all people don’t know the love that I know from grandmother, if they did we’d be a better world. (credit:Kevin Hagan Jr.)

(42 of60)

She was Joy, Light, and Woohoo! by Donna S. HighfillImagine riding through a neighborhood with the windows down, warm air blowing through your hair, and laughing hysterically while a woman with grey hair is at the wheel yelling, “Woohoo! Get out of our way!” while beeping the horn non-stop. Yea, that was my grandmom.She lost my grandfather in her early fifties, and had to find a job, learn to drive, and live alone. She did it all. When I was in first grade, my family moved across country, and I remember seeing grandmom standing all alone on the street, waving goodbye to her family.A couple of years later, I became ill and wasn’t supposed to go outside. The church youth group was going to Disneyland and my dad was the minister. But, I couldn’t go. So my grandmother, with what little money she had, flew to California to be with me.On the day that everyone left for Disney, she said, “Don’t worry. After our day together they will wish they were with us.” She proceeded to defy the doctors and call a taxicab to take us to the grocery store. She knew I had never been in a cab. She had him roll down the windows, and we yelled, “Woohoo! Get out of our way!” all the way to the store.I miss her. Yesterday, I rolled down the windows of my car and yelled, “Woohoo! Get out of my way!” and honked the horn. I got flipped off, but grandmom and I just laughed. (credit:Donna Highfill)

(43 of60)

This is my Grandma, Lillie Belle Wall. We lost her in 2008 at the age of 95. This picture is such an inspiration to me. She and her husband could no longer drive, so Cecil made sure to get him a little scooter. It only sat one, so he would stand and she'd sit. They would drive to the store and all around the community they lived in! An example to just keep going! She had one of her hips replaced at age 80 so that she could keep dancing! And, dance, she did!! She is still an inspiration to me, I think of her every day.One memory of her that I replay frequently was her grabbing my hand and looking up at me and telling me to "be happy"! Until then, I didn't know that I wasn't happy. I replay that memory when I need to be reminded to "be happy". Thank you, Grandma!!! (credit:Lee Ann Nye)

(44 of60)

This November, my abuelitos will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary. They fully embody love in such a beautiful manner that is largely derived from their Mexican culture that values putting family first and keeping family close. You can see this expression of love in the way they care for and always stand by each other but also in how they care for their 7 children and 17 grandchildren. This love is reciprocated in such a way that my grandparents are always surrounded by family, and I believe this to be a big part of the reason for their health and longevity at 90 and 91. My abuelito used to drive me home from school for some time when I was little and I fondly our conversations. He would humor my insatiable thirst for knowledge about our roots, Latin American history, politics, and faith with his his own unending bank of knowledge and wisdom. I will always treasure those rides home just as I treasure my abuelita's delicious meals and their constant encouragement and support.This photo is from a photo shoot last March while they were on a trip in Cabo San Lucas celebrating their birthdays with my mom and aunts. I just can't think of anything more precious than this photo! I feel so blessed for my grandparents and my big family. It is a source of strength and inspiration for me that I would not trade for anything. Thank you for giving me a platform to recognize my beautiful abuelitos. (credit:Ana Sheila Victorino)

(45 of60)

Grandma’s HandI am the same age my Grandma was when she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1959. I wonder now as I have grown older how she survived that day. How heartbroken, scared, afraid and alone she must of felt. Who held her sweet hand, and who if anyone, wiped away the tears from her kind gentle face, with this terrible frightening news?She was no novice to cancer; this dark blackness had robbed Grandma of her husband seven years before, leaving her to exist in two dark upstairs rooms privileged with down the hall shared plumbing. Our family of five, lived right next door, crowded into a modest two bedroom 1940’s post- war wood framed house. My bedroom was the best. That day, facing Grandma’s kitchen , I watched her washing dishes, smiling and singing, "Que sera sera, Whatever will be will be, the future’s not ours to see, Que sera sera”. This was the best part of that day. Moving from the sink, wiping her hands on her pink flowered apron, she waved, slide around her old metal table and leaned in to the window. Her face was scrunched and funny when she pushed it against the old wire mesh screen, she motioned me to do the same, and we laughed.And then, she did the most amazing thing! Grandma pushed the old wood frame, gesturing me to do the same. Still laughing she reached out between the houses and touched my hand. Love, won. (credit:Sharon Ingram)

(46 of60)

Gales of laughter split the silence as the gasps from our audience faded. Tears leaked from my squinted eyes as I held my pregnant belly and choked back the laughter that welled into my chest. The tiny Italian man situated in the adjacent wheelchair gazed at me with unflinching concern as he awaited the answer to his ever-so-serious question. “Grandpa,” I answered. “I'm still pregnant. I can't lose my baby weight until I have the baby.” He grinned at me uncertainly, as if he was giving me a pass on my lame excuse for lingering weight gain. The elderly ladies in the room stared at him in horror, shaking their heads in disbelief. Unruffled, he straightened his back with an air of majesty and moved forward with our conversation. Equally unfazed, I kicked back in my chair as we discussed our future lunch plans...a common subject of discourse during our visits.In quiet moments, I often find myself re-living this scene as I think about what my grandfather meant to me. He proved that chivalry is not dead....it is blunt. Even when social standards suggested otherwise, my grandpa maintained his dignity and squared up to the challenge of protecting his family. He was the definition of an “honest family man”, in every sense of the phrase.I was enamored by his dignity, inspired by his strength and devastated at his loss. He was my best friend and my hero. Vincent Mannino, Sr. March 1925- August 2014. (credit:Miki Skaggs)

(47 of60)

My two-year-old grandson, Jack, is the light of my life. He is my beacon of hope, my inspiration to make the world a kinder place, and the cutest little man on the planet!Two years ago, I struggled with how I would tell my only child and his beautiful pregnant wife about my breast cancer diagnosis. Our family was so happy and thrilled to be expecting a little baby to enter our lives! I felt so bad about breaking my devastating news. Shortly after my surgery, Jack came into the world... six weeks premature. There was our little guy in the hospital's NICU, all hooked up to monitors, tiny and vulnerable. The very first time I laid my eyes on Jack, I was so completely overwhelmed with love, that it made my heart burst with joy. On that day, everything about me changed. Fear was replaced by determination and sheer grit to get well, and to stay well. This little baby boy was fighting his own little battle like a warrior, and I took his lead and never looked back!Peace, love, joy, family, friends...and one sweet little smile on this boy's face all make me fall to my knees in gratitude. I love to take Jack exploring on lovely walks and playground trips! He loves to hear my stories, and eat my cookies. He loves my dog, Waffles, and likes to drop her treats from his high chair. We water the garden together, we sing and read books, and best of all... We share that fighter's spirit. Here we are, world!I'm going to help teach Jack that kindness matters, and that the best things in life are not things. Jack calls me "Rah-Rah." I guess the name fits, because I am his adoring fan, his cheerleader, and by the grace of God, his grandmother. Good news, Jack's going to be a big brother! Life is good! (credit:Lynn Eberle)

(48 of60)

I am a Grandmother of 2. Estelle, who is 5 and just started kindergarten today, Sept 4, 2014.,and my 2 year old grandson Cole. I watched them both every Monday this past year, and will continue to babysit Cole. This came about after my grandchildren's paternal Grandmother Char, who lived closed to my daughter and her son; thus, used to have the Monday sitting day, was diagnosed with terminal stage 4 pancreatic cancer in November 2013. Char, sadly lost her battle on April 18, 2014, just 6 months later. This was extremely heartbreaking for everyone, especially Estelle. I always imagined they would grow up with both their Grandmothers until adulthood, as I did. Char was an incredible hands on Grandmother and she loved and adored them as much as I do. I made a promise to myself to keep their Grandma Char alive, so just a few days after her funeral, with the help of my new husband,( yes, I am a newlywed after 31 years single ) the kids planted a pear tree in our back yard in her memory. Estelle was so excited just last week to see how much it Grandmas pear tree had grown ! We, also, along with friends and family, walked for Hospice Buffalo NY on May 18, 2014, in honor of Char, thanks to their loving paternal Grandfather who put "TEAM CHAR" together in less than 2 weeks ! Joe and I also made sure my grandchildren were part of our wedding day,and boy were they ever ! They BOTH danced the night away and I could not have been happier or more proud of them.. So what if they stole the show !! I will ALWAYS encourage them to be kind to people, never judge people carelessly or without cause, carry confidence and inspire them to give to those less fortunate, as this is something I do often and truly believe in ! I also hope that they will remember me as a super fun "glama" who never liked to act her age !! By the way, if any Grandparent has trouble sleeping, just picture their sweet little faces and laugh at their innocence and you will be certain to get a good nights sleep.. Best sleeping aid ever !! (credit:Jeannie Suppa)

(49 of60)

My grandmother loved gardenias, Hershey bars with almonds, Joy Perfume, and tall men. She was a dark haired beauty, with a flare for eclectic fashion, a deep throaty laugh, and a slim brown cigarette burning between her fingers. She was what you would call fabulous.As her first grand-daughter, I grew up riding on the coat tails of her charisma. One spring we rode the Amtrack Auto-train overnight from New Jersey to Florida with her two dogs. On a trip to Italy, she bought more jewelry than was allowed to pass through US customs, to solve the problem she smuggled rings back into the country by pinning them to her bra. The one memory that never fades is that she often let me buy not one, but the whole box of Hershey bars in the checkout lane in the supermarket.Life with my grandmother was colorful and fun, except for when it wasn’t. Because the truth of her life was that she was bipolar. Like Robin Williams, her charisma came at a cost. What I want to say today is that I am in her debt. Her illness liberated a generosity of spirit and an unbridled creative bravery that were gifts to me. My memories of her (and of Robin Williams) inspire me, challenge me creatively, and fill my life with vibrant color. (credit:Cristina Olivetti Spencer)

(50 of60)

My grandparents, Robert and Shirley Vande Zande, have been influencing my life since my first memory. I remember being raised in the same house they raised their own six children in years before. I had grown up with them as my parents for the first 10 years of my life. We had a span of 8 years where we didn't talk for years because of family problems, but the first time I talked to my grandmother after all those years she still asked how her little pooper was doing. Having them back in my life was the greatest thing I could have asked for. My grandmother was always the tough olé bird who was never afraid to speak up, she gave me my back bone. She also taught my two older sisters and I how to love each other, share even if we didn't want to, and act like young ladies. My grandfather was the quiet type. He started his adult life by joining the Navy, and all the stories he tells me never get old (no matter how many times I've heard it prior). Now even though my grandmother has passed away, my grandfather still shares stories about their 50 years together. At 84 years old he is definitely my idol. Never takes more than what he needs, very humble and kind. I love them more than anything because of the values they raised me on and the morals they taught my sisters and I. I hope I can always make them as proud and happy as possible! (credit:Carrie Vande Zande)

(51 of60)

On June 26, 2006, I called my grandma on the other side of the country for the first time in my life, just to talk. She was born in a Chinese village, and living quietly in a suburb of Seattle. I was born in Seattle, and am an architect in downtown Philadelphia. I thought we wouldn’t have much to talk about. Instead -- we haven’t stopped talking since. On these phone calls, she tells me stories from her life. Through her stories, we became best friends. I didn’t just find out what she experienced, but her hopes, her fears, her dreams, her voice. Her friendship inspired me to share the experience with as many people as I could reach. In 2009, I founded a non-profit organization, The Best Day of My Life So Far, so that others can also reach across generation gaps and social divides through storytelling. I believe that isolation is not just a senior problem, but something that we all face –- and seniors’ stories can help us all conquer it. Best Day now holds senior storytelling groups across the country and shares the stories with young people through social media, print, and events. Our methods have been researched and evaluated by international research teams and featured in numerous media outlets, academic journals, and professional conferences. AARP is among our program partners. Find out more about us at www.bestdayofmylifesofar.org and follow us on Facebook/Twitter to read inspiring stories! I am so proud to call Po Po my best friend, role model, and inspiration. (credit:Benita Cooper)

(52 of60)

It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, No that’s Just Nona!Coming from a large Croatian family, my grandma Mary has always been my Nona (none-nuh). My Nona creates her own category of superhero that leaves Clark Kent and Bruce Wayne in the dust. Standing at 5’6 118 and a half pounds, she can out eat the Cookie Monster himself (ps. her homemade cookies cannot go unmentioned). Her small frame does not even come close to defining her humungous heart. The most caring woman I know, she also comes equipped with out-of-this-world cooking abilities and a great sense of adventure.My favorite story involving my Nona perfectly depicts her personality. My mom and I took her to Disneyland during the summer and convinced her to go on all the rides. Being a trooper, Nona agreed willingly- except when she saw the drop on Splash Mountain. My Nona reluctantly got in line trusting our gentle urges that the drop she was seeing was for a different ride. The friendly looking critters of Splash Mountain soon quelled her fears until we started ascending the last hill, preparing for the final drop. While the picture captures the moment perfectly, it doesn’t quite capture my tears hearing my reserved Nona yell a few choice words on the way down.Happy Grandparent’s Day to those special people who play the exceptional role of a superhero in someone’s life. And here is to the bravest, most adventurous and super-heroic Nona I know- whether she knows it or not. (credit:Britt Radine)

(53 of60)

My Grandpa- someone who would show his family how much he loved and cared about them. He would hug everyone close, smile lovingly, and show in the warm twinkle in his eyes just how much he cared about people. He passed away fourteen years ago and to this day I still remember everything about him as if his life never ended. In particular, I remember the type of affection I was given. I was hugged, I was adored, and my little cheeks always had kisses on them. Kisses weren’t just a form of affection but given to me to create a strong memory I carry with me today.It would be at the airport, coming for a visit with my mother and brother, that Grandpa would beam while walking towards me to squeeze me tight. He would ask me, “Sophieka! How many kisses?” “Four,” I’d reply enthusiastically, and Grandpa would proceed to give me two on my left cheek and two on my right cheek as he continued to embrace me.Every visit Grandpa would ask me the same question, “How many kisses?” Each time I’d give the same answer: four. Then one day I changed my answer. “Sophieka, how many kisses?” “Three.” It was like the world paused as my Grandpa took in the change. “That’s not enough!” he shouted, and started to give me a bunch of kisses. I am honored to have been a granddaughter to such a caring man who inspired me to be just as kind-hearted. (credit:Sophie W)

(54 of60)

To this day my Grandma continues to inspire me. She handles life with the type of strength and grace that I only hope to attain one day. For as long as I can remember she’s had this saying, “Si Dios Quiere” God willing. It’s her response to a lot of little things in life and a little reminder about who’s in charge. Her words of wisdom have been a gift and the love and kindness she has shared has been an inspiration. I remember lots of memories with my grandma. Sometimes I’d join her for a days work and I’d just sit and watch her interact with people. She has a certain charm that makes people smile and they instantly warm up to her. That has always been a trait I admire about her. But one of my favorite memories comes from our weekend sleep overs at grandmas. I’d stay at her house and sometimes have trouble sleeping, in the middle of the night I’d wake her and she’d say, “It’s ok, just say a prayer mija”. So I did and off to dreamland I went. Looking back I realize that simple action taught me the power of stillness. And for that lesson, I am forever grateful. Her encouragement, strength, love and kindness has helped mold me into the woman I am today and the woman I still aspire to be…..Si Dios Quiere. (credit:Lisa Tello)

(55 of60)

I love my role as a first-time grandma to a smart currently 2-year-old grandson Rashoad Crosson Jr., RJ for short. My grandson is so awesome. We've created space for a book/playdate at the local library for him or anyone in the area who wants to come and share an hour on a Sunday afternoon. We review picture books and do other small activities. He loves the library. Our other special moments are at Chuck E. Cheese. RJ is very entertained by the activities and rides. I believe we grandparents should be a part of formulating stability in their lives. It give them some stepping stones to a brighter future. We are there to share stories and be a part of their growth and development. (credit:Sherlene Lucas)

(56 of60)

Rhapsodic friends crooned and kvelled over grandchildren, I wasn’t sure I would. Sitting in my psychoanalytic office on East 57th Street in Manhattan, wearing a stylish Armani suit and spikey Manolo pumps rather than the cotton housedress and black lace-up oxfords that my beloved grandmother wore, I wondered what shape my grandmotherhood would take. I entered the northern Califonia hospital room where my exhausted but radiant daughter lay. She passed my first grandchild to me. I held her so that I could study the rosy, perfect face of this newest member of our tribe. In that first moment an unexpected feeling came over me. I felt a strange resistance, as if there were a barrier around me, and in the silence of my own mind, the surprising, shocking thought that formed was—I do not want to love you. In that moment I knew that falling in love with this child would change my life, radically. Moment by moment as I held Gwendolyn in my arms, brushed my face across her velvet smooth cheeks, inhaled her newborn scent, and felt her tiny heart beating against mine, I began to melt.I write this sliver of becoming a grandmother from my home in Woodside, California where I now live and work. I sit at my desk in washable blue jeans and black rubber soled shoes suitable for chasing toddlers and croon and kvell rhapsodic over Gwendolyn, Chloe, Eloise, and August. (credit:Katherine Olivetti)

(57 of60)

After blowing out candles on a pretend birthday cake my granddaughter announces, “I wished I could play with Nene every day!” And that’s what we do. Last week she taught me “the happy dance”. We shake our booties, wave our hands high, and jump up and down. We make up silly songs and pretend we are ponies. She is slowly learning to be a good loser and winner. We scream when we draw the “bad” card and whoop when we draw the good.We play outside. Kids are so often “connected” to the internet, television, and kindles. We go to the playground, to the beach, or camping. We go boating and bike riding. Their aunt is deaf and I’m teaching them sign language. They are beginning to understand about disabilities and that everyone is not the same. I want them to accept and appreciate everyone for what they can do, not what they can’t. I relish every moment spent with my grandchildren and stare in awe at how quickly they are growing up. These years are precious, and I want them to remember them as a fun time. I want to encourage their imagination, sense of adventure, and to live an active healthy lifestyle.Mostly, I just want to be there for whatever they need. Right now we have fun and play. Later it may be to offer advice, calm fears, and offer a quiet nonjudgmental haven for them like my grandma did for me. (credit:Gina Lorenson)

(58 of60)

It was October 23, 2008. Heart attack. I experienced death, but some fast-handed doctors and God allowed me to live and tell the story. On that eventful day, I had no grandchildren. Now I have three beautiful granddaughters - Lily (5), Quinn (3) and Nora (1).When people ask me the best part about getting a second chance at life, I tell them it's my chance to get to know my grandchildren. My daughter and her husband are terrific parents, my wife is the greatest grandmother ever, and the three little girls are growing up knowing they are loved by their family and by God. I absolutely treasure that I get to participate in their understanding that the most important parts of life are not manufactured by Apple, or available from Netflix. I am still here on earth today truly as a result of Divine Providence – but aren't we all? As grandparents, what does age give us that isn't available on my Kindle or from Amazon? Age gives us perspective – a wider, greater understanding of what matters. That’s what I hope to convey to the girls both in words and in action. I want to model caring, understanding, being grateful to God and living with an “eternity” mindset. By the way - I’m also probably going to buy them whatever they want that I can afford. It’s too much fun to skip, because Papa loves his granddaughters to the moon and back times infinity! (credit:William Murray)

(59 of60)

BOOM.Mortars fly from the Germans. Mike Cokinos’ binoculars quickly pan to the right – there lies his wounded commanding officer hiding in a small bunker. Snipers shot the medics down who went to his aid. Cokinos sprints towards his commander.ZING, POW –the bullets fly past his head as he says a prayer and dives into the bunker. Cokinos shield’s his commander’s head with is own helmet– CRASH!Cokinos and the Commander are sent flying against the wall – but Cokinos shields the Commander from any harm.My Papou – Brigadier General Mike P. Cokinos, received the Silver Star for valor during the Battle of the Bulge. World War II. My Papou has always been the master storyteller. His acts of bravery inspired me so much, that I would dress up in army clothes with my best friend Taylor and reenact every one of them. Yes – we had it all – the fake guns, the miniature jeep that I would drive my sister around in, who would ALSO pretend to be in war as a nurse. His stories became so real for us that there was a point when Taylor and I dug a literal four foot bunker in my backyard so that we could have a realistic experience. My Papou laughed, and even more so when he noticed we killed a tree in the process. He never encouraged wartime, but fueled my imagination and ability to write, to the point where he inspired me to dive into the film industry, where I hope to create stories for the big screen. At ninety-four years old, he still carries a twinkle in his eye and contagious laugh for anyone who stands next to him. This picture shows my Papou surrounded by his wife, seven children, and his thirty-one grandchildren, all who have experienced the very same love and care he used to protect his commanding officer – all are creating and living stories of their own. General Mike P. Cokinos is a living example of how one man can truly inspire a generation of love. (credit:Demetrios P. Cokinos)

(60 of60)

At 13 years old, just after the U.S. stock market crashed in 1929, my grandpa became the breadwinner of his family by cleaning up behind horse-drawn carriages. Martin Edward Cox was the first of six children born to working class parents of Irish descent in Philadelphia. He was the first in his family to go to college, paying his own way. After his undergraduate studies, he joined the FBI while attending law school at George Washington University. Likely as a result of the trauma of the Great Depression, many in that generation tended to be “lifers” at their jobs. Grandpa Cox was no exception, working as a special agent – a fingerprints expert – for the FBI for 35 years. Due to financial hardship, my mother had to make the difficult decision to move back in with her parents with me and my siblings in tow. Before we moved in, my grandparents locked up pretty much everything of value in a closet but my brother and I quickly learned how to pick the lock so we could peek at Christmas gifts. On one secret closet excursion, I looked through Grandpa's file cabinet. Ever the G-man, I discovered that he kept a file on every one of his children and grandchildren. In my file, I found achievement certificates and tests that I had callously discarded in my messy room. Grandpa always encouraged us to seek a quality education, to conduct ourselves with honor, and to find the humor in life. Caption: FBI Special Agent Marty Cox (far right) receives his 25th anniversary service award in 1964 from FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover. (credit:Colleen Sharkey)

Suggest a correction

|

From Our Partner

HuffPost Shopping's
Best Finds

39 Products For Anyone In Their Quiet Luxury Era, But On A Budget

29 Pairs Of Shoes Reviewers Say Make It Feel Like You’re 'Walking On Clouds'

This Affordable Drugstore Cream Might Be The Closest Thing To The Famous La Mer

12 Shorts For Men That Aren't Too Long And Don't Look Dumb

Reviewers Are Obsessed With These Comfortable Sneaker Sandals — Here's Why