In September of 2020 we visited our daughter in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. After a few days of perfect weather, Hurricane Sally approached the area and we kept watch from our room on Okaloosa Island. Roads were flooded, and restaurants and stores were all closed for days. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured, but it was not the vacation we had planned.

While traveling, we are always looking for a book or similar souvenir to bring home for our granddaughter, Nora. I wanted something to remember the location and the experience we had, but could not find a book that seemed right. The next morning, I wrote The Grands Go- Oh No! The Florida Panhandle based on Romans 8::28, one of my favorite verses in the Bible. Both my husband and daughter were very enthusiastic. Two days later I wrote another story about the Smokies- a frequent destination of our family for generations. Sharing them with family and friends brought a positive response, so I began the process of self-publishing in November.

The purpose of the books and website is to help grandparents create meaningful, long-lasting memories with grandchildren through reading and travel. The books engage children and create anticipation for the trip, and the website makes it easy to plan at any budget or activity level. I hope to send The Grands on many more grandtrips and would love to hear your trip reports and suggestions as well!