Grandma Says

Grandma Says represents my point of view on grandparenting. I reflect on what I've learned about life and the life lessons I try to impart to the grandkids. This section also opens a window into my grandma life.

Child at 10 and 3, setting the table.

The Best of Call Me Grandma: Table Manners for Kids

By Grandma Sandy | July 30, 2025

Having kids set the table encourages good table manners by giving them responsibility and pride in the meal.

Grandma Sharon and her granddaughter in the kitchen. They bond over cooking.

How to Engage Older Grandkids by Cooking Together

By Grandma Sandy | July 2, 2025

Grandkids grow up fast. When they’ve outgrown baby entertainments, engage older grandkids in cooking.

Scenery along Interstate 5 in California.

On the Road: The Joys of Summer Car Travel

By Grandma Sandy | June 25, 2025

Try these tips for summer car travels, plus domestic and international travel ideas, and staycation plans.

Clips are wooden clothespins decorated with affirming messages by girls on volleyball teams who give them randomly to other players.

Clothespin Clips–a Great Affirmation of Girls by Girls

By Grandma Sandy | June 11, 2025

Clips are upbeat messages written on clothespins; clip anonymously and randomly on gym bags, clothes, or hair.

Morning coffee in the garden is a good way to start a blog break.

Grandma takes a Blog Break: Forging New Tracks

By Grandma Sandy | April 9, 2025

Grandma is on a blog break. Today’s post outlines activities anyone can do when enjoying a little time off.

Grandparent and grandchild out for a walk. It's a good time for conversatiion.

The Best News You can Use Now: Curated Stories

By Grandma Sandy | March 12, 2025

From grandparenting tips, to healthy living ideas, here is a curated list of news stories you can use.

Child decorating Christmas cookies.

Grandma Says: My Ultimate Post- Holiday Review

By Grandma Sandy | January 8, 2025

Now that the holidays are over, it’s a good time to do a post-holiday review to file away ideas for next Christmas.

Japan Airlines airplanes at Haneda Airport, Tokyo.

How to Pack for Vacation Travel: My Best Tips

By Grandma Sandy | September 25, 2024

Whether going on a car trip to visit family or traveling halfway around the world, try these packing tips.

Flowers ready to be arranged for ikebana.

What I Did on My Staycation: Easy Things to Do Now

By Grandma Sandy | August 14, 2024

Staycation ideas to replicate: ikebana flower arranging, word games. closet cleaning, and travel planning.

Grandma meeting grandchild for the first time.

Grandma Life: My Best Practical Advice for You

By Grandma Sandy | August 7, 2024

A roundup of thoughts and life lessons on being a grandma; things I did for the grandkids and ones I wish I had.