Grandpa,
This is (names withheld by Grandpa for their privacy). In May we wrote to you about our daughter being the ring bearer in our wedding (See Ask Grandpa, The Voice, May 31, 2018). After we wrote you, (groom’s) sister let us know that she had hoped to be the ring bearer. She is too young to be a bride’s maid. You had suggested that we decorate a stroller for our daughter to ride in to be our ring bearer. We went one step further. (Husband’s sister) is the one that pushed (daughter’s) stroller down the aisle. It worked out great! We got what we wanted, and my now sister-in-law is proud to have been part of our wedding. Our Thanksgiving was even more wonderful because we were married the weekend before. My husband was right. I am glad we did not wait until our baby was old enough to walk. How can we ever thank you for the suggestion of having her in a stroller? It was the highlight of the ceremony!
Grandpa says: I am happy things turned out well for you. There is no need to thank me, because I am pleased for you. May all your years together be filled with love and peace.
Grandpa,
My boyfriend and I are planning to spend New Year’s Eve at (a bar oriented to LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) couples). Neither of us plans to drink. We are going there just to check it out. (He) is suggesting we let people know we would be available as designated drivers for those who want to drink. How would we be able to let people know that without sounding like we are just trying to pick up guys?
Grandpa says: Your idea is noble and generous. First contact your auto insurance carrier to find out if they recommend an add-on to your policy to be sure you are covered. They will ask if you are doing it for pay. Be honest with them. A lie could cost you the policy. Next, ask the bar management about putting up a poster to let patrons know in advance of your offer. Finally, make up shirts with a “designated driver logo”. Then, go to the party and see how things develop. This idea of yours is very kind, considerate, and usable in straight bars, too.
Grandpa,
My nephew is three years old. I would like to adopt a puppy to give him for Christmas. I would like to have him go with me to the shelter to pick out the one he likes. How can I do this without ruining the surprise of the gift?
Grandpa says: A live animal is not the kind of a gift with which you surprise anyone. Did you check with the child’s parents? Giving a puppy to a child is a great way to put a very wide gulf between you and the parents. Puppies grow up faster than children. In the process, they can become a strain on the adults in the house. Be sure the parents go to the shelter with you.
Got something stuck in your craw? Ask Grandpa. Address your letters to Ask Grandpa c/o The Voice, 314 N. Lake Street, Suite 2, Aurora, IL 60506 or send an E-mail to askgrandpa@thevoice.us.