National Grandparents Day

I’m on a quest to embrace the family member holidays—not just as a license to indulge in a mountain of ice cream atop a luscious piece of cake, but as a way to tally up my blessings with a heart brimming with gratitude.

I want to treasure those who've etched their kindness into my life.

This Sunday, September 13th, is National Grandparents Day. My grandmother, the unforgettable Jeannie Mae Hawkins-Blanton, holds a special place in my heart. I used to let Grandparents Day drift by unnoticed, but now I see it as a sparkling gem for family historians.

Here's a giggle for you—while tracing its roots, I had a foggy flashback to 1978 when President Jimmy Carter made it official, all thanks to Marian McQuade, the champion of celebrating our wise elders. Her story touched my soul, as I, too, am a senior advocate and a self-proclaimed family historian happily striding through my 'sexagenarian' chapter. That term tickles me every time, like a teenager with a secret crush! Sixty feels so much more thrilling when you dress it up with fancy words.

As a hobby genealogist, I lead a peaceful life in my head, nose-deep in what seems like ancient scrolls. While researching is a real joy to me, the real treasure is chatting with our elders. Otherwise, you’re just piecing together what might have been.

There's a universe of wisdom in the past, and having a relative spill tales from yesteryears is pure gold.

So, give your grandparent a ring if you can. If not, dig a little for their stories. Who knows, you might uncover some tantalizing tidbits that turn history into something you’re eager to explore.