What?! It's December already! Where did those last 11 months go?

I know, I know, it happens every year—December sneaks in wearing a cozy sweater and carrying a mile-long to-do list. While our world rushes toward year-end sales, holiday menus, and half-finished resolutions, I have been thinking about what to do differently with my grandkids.

We could talk about homemade gifts and gingerbread houses, which we do every year. But what I really want to know from him is what made his heart beat faster this year? What did he learn? What does he hope for?

Winter break: those endless days off school—back in our day, anyway. You have probably heard this a thousand times; our winters included the legendary walk "one mile, in the snow, uphill both ways." But if I have to be honest, winter break in 2025 is nothing like our rosy, frostbitten memories. This post is a blend of nostalgia, gentle ribbing, and serious advice for parents and grandparents alike—let's help kids today enjoy a break without the stress of social media, Zoom homework, or perfectionism.

I have a question for you. Have you ever stared at your phone, wondering whether to send that “just checking in” text to your grown kids, knowing full well they might not answer? If so, then pull up a chair. You’re in good company.

I’ve been there, too. I send the message, maybe toss in a meme for flair… and then? Crickets. And yet, I keep doing it. Every day. Not because I'm desperate for attention, but because I'm an intentional grandmother. And whether they respond or not, I want my kids to know: I'm here, I'm watching (not in a creepy way), and I still care.

Ah, weddings — they’re emotional, joyful, and, let’s be honest, a tad stressful! But as the mother of the groom, not that much planning needs to be done. Although the thoughtful bride has included me in various events such as “She said yes to the Dress,” there isn’t much involvement, especially since I live six hours away. However, there’s generally one thing that should be exciting, not overwhelming, and something I have a definite say in: finding the perfect dress.

Whether you're walking down the aisle behind your child, greeting guests, or dancing the night away, your outfit should make you feel confident, beautiful, and completely at ease. But with so many styles, traditions, and trends out there, where do you even begin?

Don’t worry — we’ve got your back. Let’s break it down!

My earliest memory of travel is of a late-night freight train clicky-clackin' by my bedroom window as dusk began settling on the landscape. I was 5, and when I would first start to feel the thunder of the wheels on the tracks as they gently rocked the street, I would jump from my bed to the window to watch and dream of all the places they must go. My imagination was on overload.

I don't know about you, but I envisioned travel as an exotic and seamless experience in which everything went according to plan. After all, the train rocketed by my window like clockwork; the rest of that trip must have been perfect.

Growing up, my grandparents’ annual pilgrimage to Palm Springs for a week at the spa baffled me. Sixty years later, with aching bones and arthritis, I finally understand the healing power of these retreats. Now, as I prepare for a journey to the Blue Lagoon in Iceland, I realize it’s about more than soothing aches – it’s about embracing life’s journey and sharing wisdom with the next generation.

Imagine yourself in the future—10, 20, perhaps even 40 years from now. It's your 80th birthday party. Are you sitting in a wheelchair, unable to move freely? Or do you find yourself dancing joyfully with your grandchildren? Which vision resonates more with you? The reality is, the path you take today shapes the life you lead tomorrow. Your choices—the levels of activity you embrace, your nutritional habits, and the amount of rest you invest in yourself—are the keys to unlocking your future. 

Thinking about travel sports for your young athlete? Whether they’re just starting at the young age of seven or competing in high school, it’s a big commitment for the whole family. We’ll break down the biggest benefits and the toughest challenges of joining a travel team—so you can decide what’s best for your kid (and your sanity). Although times have changed, this modern grandparent can help you navigate your way.