Long Distance Grandparenting

We got interviewed by a reporter for Birmingham Parent, an award winning magazine. The reporter (Lori) had a great question. How do grandparents keep the bond with their grandchildren strong when they live a long distance away? There are plenty of ways, of course, and we'll list a good one here. Read the same book as one of your grandchildren and talk about it over the phone. Or emails. Whatever. Lori mentioned that she had done the same with her child, reading the Harry Potter books. For us, it's Eragon. There's nothing like a good book to bring people together. What a great bridge over any generational gap! And as a bonus, the kids improve their reading skills. So, see what your grandchild (or child) is reading, and read along with him or her. You'll be amazed at the connection you can make.

It might be good to gather them all on a chair or couch and have them pick out a book (or books) that everyone can enjoy. (see picture below) Okay, the younger ones might have to wait a few years, but that's ok. They'll catch up.

Books and Boats

We'll be traveling to Michigan for a booksigning event on Saturday, June 7 (1-2::30 pm). Come by and say hello if you're in the area. The event is at The Book Blues Bookstore. Great name for a bookstore!

If you check out the bookstore's website, you'll see that they support a very worthy cause, Books for Soldiers, which we wholeheartedly endorse. After sending some of our own books, we received a very nice email from Afghanistan thanking us for helping fill out their base library.



Need more tips for summer travel with the kids and grandkids? Check out our article at Houseboat magazine.

Enjoy!