Nothing better than being a grandparent, especially when they're local. It's just so much fun.

My neighbors never had kids (not sure if that was by choice) but now in their 60s and retired they have kind of "adopted" a young family they know (the young DH used to work for neighbor DH) who don't seem to have much extended family, or at least none nearby. The neighbors babysit, have the young family over for dinner, always celebrate Thanksgiving together. It's really nice.

My 2 DSs are mid and late 20s, both single and seem far away from parenthood. I think they are both open to the idea of children but I don't think they think about it that much. Personally, I think having grandchildren would be nice, but if it doesn't happen that's OK. I enjoy spending time with them regardless.

no sure that we will have grandkids. I think the posters who say channel your energies to helping others are exactly right. Can be family or strangers... either way, it is the essence of grandparenting, helping without strings, and what a lovely thing to do generally.

My aunt was devastated her sons never married or had kids. One day a single mom moved in across the street. Over time she got to know them and began treating the mom and kids as her family. Now she’s “Grandma K” and beyond proud of her “grandkids” to the point that most people don’t even realize they aren’t actually blood related.

My point - you can channel your grandma energy into helping someone. Don’t force it on strangers of course, but kindness and care not asking anything in return can get you the relationships you crave.

Good luck — and it’s ok to be sad.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I would not leave a cent to a childless daughter unless she lived in poverty. I want what remains of my nest egg to go to my grandchildren.

I do not understand families that subsidize their daughters such that they don't go on to have families of their own. Very strange.

What?

Do you mean families should withhold funds from their daughters in particular, to pressure them financially to enter into marriage?? 😳

Good God man. It is 2026.

Yes, I think it's weird to spend money to end your bloodline.