The Importance of Grandparents

I would like to start out by saying that I had the two most amazing sets of grandparents on the planet.  My maternal grandparents passed away in 1992 and 1997, respectively.  My grandfather, who died when I was 11 years old babysat me frequently and I can remember being dropped off there early in the mornings with my older sister.  My grandmother, who died when I was 16, I didn't know quite as well because she suffered from Parkinson's Disease and was wheelchair and bed-bound starting when I was very young.  Both of them were amazing people and had hearts of gold and I think nothing but amazing things about them.
My paternal grandparents, however, will always have a special place in my heart.  I used to spend summers with them, garage saling and going to the flea markets.  I used to sit for hours at the top of their staircase, reading books from their bookshelves.  I used to sleep in a cot in their bedroom because they knew I was afraid of the dark.  I used to push my Cabbage Patch Dolls around in Grandma's antique doll buggy.  I have incredibly fond memories of my childhood that revolve around my paternal grandparents.
If you asked me today to tell you the five most influential people in my life, my grandparents would rank front and center.  I still talk to them at least once a week for at least 45 minutes.  I still send them cards for Mother's and Father's day, send letters, and send pictures as often as I can.  When I'm in town, I set aside an entire day just to visit with them.  Why?  Because they are an integral part of my life.  They have been there for me through thick and thin, nurtured me, told me they were proud, supported me even when very few other people would, defended me when someone said something negative.....they were like a second set of parents....only grander. :)
My opinion is that grandparents (both biological and "adopted") are an important part of a child's upbringing.  They have wisdom that a parent can't have because they haven't had the same life experiences.  They are softer with age and, thus, more likely to be sensitive when you fall down in life's big bumps.  They love and care for you and are so proud of every little achievement.  They listen to you talk for hours, even if it's boring to other people because it's NOT boring to them...they think it's wonderful.
I am extremely grateful for the grandparents in my life, both my own and the ones that my children have.  I'm also thankful for the "adoptive" grandparents who have been there in my life and the life of my kids even in the hardest of times.  Life just wouldn't be quite as wonderful without them!