| Thank you, Jimmy Dana Vicars in Pipestem State Park, WV, for this week's cover image! |
In 1970, Marian McQuade, a member of the West Virginia Commission on Aging, began a campaign to recognize the (often) wisest and most beloved of all family members: the grandparent. Success would arrive in a relatively short 8 years, when in 1978 President Jimmy Carter declared the first Sunday after Labor Day to be National Grandparents Day. (That’s today!)
When we think of grandparents, we often picture gray-haired, out-of-touch seniors, but today’s grandparent is more active and connected than ever. In fact, according to the AARP, the average age when someone becomes a grandparent is just 48, and most will be a grandparent for at least half of their adult life. The vast majority are online, and many are on social media. They’re spending more time with their grandchildren than any generation before. A tenth of America’s kids live with or are being raised by a grandparent.
There’s no doubt that grandparents are an important part of our lives, and while a national holiday is a great reason to celebrate, any day is a good day to show grandparents how much they mean to you. Looking for ideas to show them just how much you care? Check out our Grandparents Day page for gifts and activities. Of course, we encourage you to please follow the social distancing guidelines for your area!
Baking someone a special sweet treat is always, well, a treat! Grandmother’s Blueberry Cake is a simple recipe that produces a delicious, moist cake that tastes just like a blueberry muffin. If bananas are more to your liking, consider Grandpa’s Banana Bread.
Sometimes showing your gratitude (to a grandparent or anyone!) is as easy as writing a thank-you note. Writing a note is a great way to say “I love you” even when you can’t be together.
Finally, now that we’re past Labor Day and heading into autumn, have you started noticing the first signs of fall?
As sure as the Sun will rise and set each day, The Old Farmer’s Almanac is here for you, now and always.
Your Friends from The Old Farmer’s Almanac |
