Have you ever wondered what type of glue is used - to hold the bridge over the generation gap? A new study shows that grandparents are the glue that bonds the generations!

Ok, you’re right, this isn’t ‘news�?to most of us, but I thought it would be fun to do our own "Granny’s Place-Grandparents Survey." You don’t have to be a ‘Grandparent�?to do the survey..Just tell us how your grandparent (s), helped mold you into the person you are today.

I will give you some excerpts from the AARP Grandparent Information Center survey, then you take it from there. I will post this in "The Family Porch", so that it becomes part of the "Granny’s Place History." The results of the survey follows:

"There is no grandfather who does not adore his grandson". This is true for grandmothers and granddaughters, too, of course �?but according to the survey, this adoration go far beyond just showering the grandkids with candy and gifts.

One-third of the grandparents enjoy spoiling their grandkids, but the majority (83 percent) think their real responsibility to the kids involves instilling strong values.

Grandparents believe their duties include; Teaching the kids religion and spirituality, telling them about their family history, disciplining when needed, and helping them with schoolwork. (And I would think, all in that order, hehe). "Grandparents aren’t in this just for the fun of it, they take their grandparent-ing duties very seriously," said the surveyor.

To those surveyed, being a grandparent means:

Opening Your Wallet; On an average they spend about $500.00 a year, 2 out of 5 between $500.00 and $2,500.00. About half say they help pay for education; 45 percent assist with living expenses. About 15 percent provide some level of daycare—up from 8 percent in 1998.

Giving Your Time; (Majority agrees the most valuable) Meals together, watching TV, reading aloud, and shopping.

Staying in Touch; 70 percent manage to see their grandchildren once every week or two, and one-quarter see theirs once every few months. It is harder if they live far away or their grandchildren have busy schedules. When face-to-face visits isn’t possible, they’re far likely to use the phone than the mouse; 65 percent say they never send email to grandkids.

Luckiest are grandparents in their 60’s: 62 percent see their grandchildren once a week. Only 55 percent in their 50’s and 70’s can make the same claim.

Of course, we can’t call ourselves "grand" until we’ve been plain old parents first. And it is in that role that we lay the foundation for a fulfilling grandparent-hood. The study found that grandparents who have a good relationship with their own children are more likely to feel good about being a grandparent, and give themselves an overwhelming vote of confidence.

Ok, there you have it!! What is your vote?? Are you a ‘grand�?grandparent and/or have ‘grand�?grandparents?

I say, "You've never known love until you become a grandparent."