Disclaimer: Devoted Grandma is reader-supported. If you purchase anything through my site, I may receive a small commission (at no cost to you). Thank you.
It’s not always cookies and hugs in the world of grandmahood. Sometimes, we feel more like the family ghost than the family gem.
Fear not though! Here are 12 signs you’re feeling a tad forgotten, and some fun, creative ways to let everyone know grandma isn’t just a cute face — she’s got some serious spunk!
The key is to not bask in these feelings but to do what you can control – and have some fun in the process.
You’re Excluded from Family Decisions
Ever had the family picnic planned without your input, and you’re left juggling the potato salad while they all play frisbee?
Solution: Politely remind them that two can play that game — literally. Show up with your own frisbee and join in on the fun.
You’re Un-Asked About
If conversations with your family are starting to feel like speed dates, it’s time for a change.
Solution: Beat them to the punch and ask them about their day first. They’ll reciprocate the gesture — if not, ask them if they’ve suddenly forgotten how conversations work.
You’re the Missing Piece in Photos
Feeling like Waldo in family pictures?
Solution: Appoint yourself as the official family photographer. You’ll decide who’s in or out — hint, you’re always in!
Your Special Days are Ghost Towns
If your birthday feels like a covert operation, it’s time to take action.
Solution: Drop hints about your upcoming birthday — and by hints, we mean post-it notes on the fridge with a countdown.
Your Stories Become Ghost Stories
Your tales from the past are gold mines, not yawn triggers!
Solution: Choose the right moment to share — usually, when they’re not engrossed in their smartphones. Dinnertime, anyone?
You’re Left in the Technology Dust
If you feel like you’ve been dropped in a sci-fi movie, you’re not alone.
Solution: Find the tech whiz of the family and recruit them as your personal tech sensei. Learning Snapchat could become your new party trick.
Your Advice is on Mute
When your wisdom is collecting dust, it’s time to unleash it.
Solution: Share your golden nuggets of wisdom when least expected. They’re about to go for a run in the rain? Remind them about that time you did and met a family of squirrels.
Your House Feels Like a Post Office
No regular visitors, only package drops.
Solution: Turn your home into the hot spot for family gatherings. Game night at Grandma’s will become a thing.
You Feel Like a Supporting Actress
If you’re feeling like Grandma #2 in the family sitcom, it’s time to shine.
Solution: Remind them of the times you saved the day. Remember that epic diaper change incident of 2022?
You’re the Last to Know
Always the last one to hear about cousin Sally’s new puppy?
Solution: Ask for a weekly family newsletter. No one has time to write it? They might just tell you the news on time to avoid the task.
Your Preferences are a Mystery
If they still think your favorite ice cream flavor is vanilla, it’s time for an update.
Solution: Casually bring up your likes and dislikes in conversations. Oh, look, a squirrel! You know how much I love those.
Your Grandkids are Like Distant Celebrities
If the last thing you heard about your grandson is from a Facebook post, it’s time for a change.
Solution: Propose a Grandma-Grandkids day out. Theme parks or fun cooking sessions, the options are endless.
Remember, we can be the life of the party, not the party poopers. After all, we’ve been around a lot longer than everyone else!
