Story by Rhylea Thompson

Whether they’re knitting sweaters, telling great stories or offering an endless supply of cookies, the bond between grandparents and their grandchildren are precious.

Grandparents’ Day is on October 26 and highlights the meaningful role our family elders play in our lives.

Here is a glimpse at some of the unique relationships some of our Seasons residents share with their grandkids.

COFFEE DATE: Seasons resident Margaret Moss with her youngest great grandchild Mia, who often frequents the Seasons cafe for a babycino-fix. Picture: Supplied

“Grandma” Margaret

Distance makes the heart grow fonder and Margaret Moss and her loving family are proof.

While her family lived in Brisbane, Margaret remained in Orange, NSW, and although they could only visit each other a few times a year, they cherished every moment spent together.

Since relocating to Queensland and moving into Seasons, Margaret has relished her newfound freedom, with the ability to see her grandkids in just a 20-minute car drive.

With five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren aged six to 39, Margaret’s days are often busy, especially with visits from youngest Mia, who always orders a babycino at the Seasons cafe.

“Being a grandmother makes you feel fuzzy – there’s nothing like an early morning cuddle,” she said.

“As a parent, you do the dress rehearsal, so now you get to be a lot more relaxed in this role… my children weren’t allowed to lick the beater, but my grandkids get to lick the whole bowl!”

From dancing together in shopping centres on Christmas Eve, to watching her grandson play hockey for Australia in South Africa, Margaret said she treasured all moments spent with her grandkids.

“Sometimes it’s the little things,” she said.

“My grandson once asked me to tie a piece of string to the moon so we could bring it home to Grandpa… I will never forget that.

“The most important thing is that they’re happy… I’ve been blessed with a family that truly cares.”

CHALK & CHEESE: Proud Nanna Peggy Sowden with her two grandsons (from left) Harry and Thomas. Picture: Supplied

“Nanna” Peggy

When it comes to brothers Thomas and Harry, their nanna Peggy Sowden describes them as “chalk and cheese”.

“Thomas is a red head with freckles, who is very academic and content with playing video games for hours,” she said.

“Whereas Harry is brunette, tanned, loves his sport and always has to be on the go.”

The pair regularly visit their Nanna at Seasons Mango Hill and enjoy raiding her pantry for snacks, going op-shopping, playing bingo and having a chat with the other residents.

GROWTH SPURT: Despite young Harry now being taller than his Nanna Peggy Sowden, he still loves to curl up on her chair for a cuddle. Picture: Supplied

“Being a grandmother means never-ending love,” Peggy said.

“I don’t remember life without them… They bring me so much joy and if I don’t see them for a little while, I actually get an ache.”

Before the boys started towering over Peggy, they would sit on either side of her armchair for cuddles, with Harry still trying to squeeze in occasionally.

While 13-year-old Thomas is still weighing up his career options, young Harry, 9, is currently considering becoming a doctor, pilot or chef.

                                                                                                                                                                                                          COUNTRY CREW: Bonded over their shared passion for Johnny Cash and the great outdoors, Seasons resident Daphne West said she is beyond proud of her grandson Reece Stanford. Picture: Maddison Bywater

“Nan” Daphne

Whether he was exploring his grandparents’ farm, swimming in the dam or sneaking beans from the vegetable garden, Reece Stanford has always loved spending time with his nan and Seasons resident Daphne West.

“Nan has always been there for me,” Reece said.

“When I felt like I couldn’t talk to anyone else, I could always talk to her.”

The pair bond over their shared love for all things country – from Johnny Cash and homecooked stews, to brewing tea the traditional way and camping in the great outdoors.

“Every time we have ever gone camping, Reece has made me a hot cup of tea in the morning,” Daphne said.

“He’s the most beautiful lad you’ll ever meet and he helps me out any way he can… I’m very lucky to have him as a grandson.”

FAMILY MATTERS: Seasons resident Daphne West (centre) with her daughter Carolyn Stanford and grandson Reece Stanford. Picture: Maddison Bywater

Describing her son and mother’s relationship as special and rare, Carolyn Stanford said she always ensured her kids had a close bond with their grandparents.

“They’re a pair of larrikins,” she said.

“Whenever Reece visits, Mum’s face lights up… I see a lot of her in him and she loves to be reminded of the country.”

Daphne has seven grandchildren and nine great grandchildren.

On behalf of the entire Seasons Living Team, we wish our residents a happy Grandparents’ Day on Sunday, October 26.

For more information about what life at Seasons looks like, click here.