The Buckets are more important than I realized


Dear Reader,

My daughter-in-law and I were chatting the other day about their upcoming summer visit. She wanted me to know that the 6-year-old was already talking about The Buckets. My granddaughter wanted to make sure I would have them again this time, and that her brother would not be allowed to steal her Oreos again.

Three years ago, I got some small tin buckets before they came to stay. My intent was for them to have a place to keep their toothbrushes, washcloth, and other toiletries during their visit. But then I thought about how fun it would be to have some surprises in the buckets when they arrived. I put in a water bottle for each of them to use while they were here, a squirt gun, and some healthy snacks. All things I would have had for them anyway, but somehow they seemed more exciting when they were in the bucket.

For subsequent visits, I’ve done pretty much the same. In fact, the same water bottles and squirt guns reappear every summer! Last year there was a little craft kit or activity for each of them that I had picked up during the year, and the highly desirable Oreos in addition to more wholesome snacks. The buckets have apparently become a very important part of their visit, and I’d better start thinking about what to include this year.

There are a lot of things to do to get ready for a visit from the grandkids. From stocking the pantry and planning meals to moving where we keep our morning pills, there are a lot of little steps that need to be taken so we can enjoy the time they are here with minimal stress. I feel like a checklist is needed!

Are you anticipating any visits from your grandchildren? If so, I’d love to know about your plans and preparations.

What do you usually do to get ready for their visits? Would a checklist help you? Please reply and let me know!

Warm regards,
DeeDee

We want to help you be a Most Valuable Grandparent! Visit our shop to see all our resources.

DeeDee Moore | Founder, More Than Grand LLC | morethangrand.com

Calling all new grandparents! (and parents, too!)

We cover topics that matter to grandparents - and parents - such as concrete ways to help new parents, understanding new trends in child care, and meaningful ways to connect the generations. The resources and products we offer foster open communication, encourage healthy boundaries, and equip new grandparents with the tools they need to become a supportive partner to their grandchild's parents. Sign up for our newsletter to find out why grandparenting isn't about spoiling the grandkids anymore. Parents welcome!

Read more from Calling all new grandparents! (and parents, too!)

Hello, Reader! If you’ve been here awhile, you know that one of my main messages at More Than Grand is that grandparents need to cut back on giving gifts. I keep harping on the subject because it is the number one complaint that parents share with me—too much stuff, too often, and frequently something they don’t want their child to have. When I post about it on social media, parents often chime in with horror stories, like the grandma who showed up on Christmas morning with three industrial...

The persons hardest to convince they're at the retirement age are children at bedtime. ~ Shannon Fife Each Saturday, we send you a roundup of articles and resources that will help you be a better grandparent. We may receive a commission for purchases made through affiliate links in this email. This is an easy and much appreciated way for you to support More Than Grand! Growing as a Grandparent Today’s the last day to get the Candlelight & Comfort Bundle, a collection of 15+ ebooks,...

Dear Reader, What do you remember about your grandparents’ home? When I think back to my childhood, I remember the smells: eucalyptus trees, furniture polish, and my grandmother’s perfume. I remember the feeling of sinking into the down-filled cushions of the pink velvet couch. I remember the taste of vanilla yogurt and tea with honey. Their house wasn’t cozy, but it always felt like an adventure to be there. So many of our childhood memories revolve around the senses. Our grandchildren’s...