The Price Of Their Toys

When people hear the word “grandparent,” they often think of old people. In our society – with 60 being the new 30, or whatever number flatters the older person and scares the younger – we have to think about grandparents as young and hip-thinking people, who just happen to be old enough to have children who’ve had children. Ask Oprah, and you’ll see that some people celebrating Grandparents’ Day are actually in their forties. They certainly don’t want presents for old people. Except for their ages, grandparents have a lot of privileges parents don’t have. They get to drive two-door cars again. They can travel at will. They’re done saving extra money. If they haven’t saved it by then, oops. They have more freedom and less responsibility. The best gifts for grandparents are gifts for fun-loving, young-feeling people.

For example, romantic weekend getaways are not just for the young and in love. They can be unexpected and very much appreciated Grandparents’ Day gifts, as the grandparents get to take on new adventures. It’s also time to think about the “bucket lists,” if the grandparents have one. What would they do if they thought they were dying? Have they wanted to own a bicycle built for two, but thought they’d feel silly? They won’t if it’s a present for the grandparents. How about his-and-hers massages or special spa treatments? Yoga lessons? These are things that they wouldn’t buy themselves, but are just right for the young at heart. Have you considered renting them a sports car or convertible for a weekend? It would have to be a weekend without the grandchildren, as these don’t usually come with car seats, but a sports car can mean a fun and frivolous day and send a signal that they’re anything but old grandparents.

Grandparents often lament the good times that have passed and how they will not be remembered in the future. Giving them guides to their memories that they can enjoy and share make great gifts. The choices are infinite. Type a month and year—maybe when they were born or their wedding date—into a site like eBay, and you’ll find a varied selection of magazines that will present a different look at life— their lives. Giving someone, for example, a LIFE Magazine issue from the week they were married can provide hours of memories and happiness. Just the ads are enough for unlimited conversations. Did we really believe that “x” medicine would fix “y”? Did we really wear those? Yikes! Try PHOTOPLAY and see what the stars were saying. It’s guaranteed to bring smiles. Historical and retrospective books are terrific gifts, as well. Pick a subject that is meaningful to them—from the history of their favorite TV sitcoms to the changes in household appliances, to the autobiography of a favorite movie star or the evolution of space travel—and you’ve delivered a good and meaningful gift. Grandparents’ Day may not be as well-known as Mother’s Day or Father’s Day, but the options for great gifts make it a a great time to show the grandparents how much you care. The only real rule is, don’t give presents for “old” people. Celebrate life and the lives grandparents have enhanced, and reward them gifts that will enhance their lives.

Other Gift Ideas:

Sunbeam Health at Home Heat Plus Massage Heating PadSunbeam offers the Health at Home line of products as an effective way to take good care of yourself and maintain an active life.

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Good TimesIn their one and only movie together, singing duo Sonny and Cher star in this "happy" (The Hollywood Reporter), "affectionate" (Los Angeles Times) and... Read More >

Quotes on Parents and Parenting - Mankind's Wisdom on Parenthood from King Solomon to Dr. Spock (Greatest Quotes Series)"Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body." If words could des... Read More >

Yoga for the Young at Heart

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