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

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