Here are 15 things our grandparents did that brought depth, value, and joy to their lives—things we could all benefit from bringing back:
1. Repairing and Mending Clothes
Before fast fashion, there was mending—a skill many of us watched our grandparents do. Patching jeans, darning socks, even altering a hemline, they made their clothes last. Not only is it better for our wallets and the environment, but it also encourages us to be mindful of our belongings. There’s a kind of satisfaction in fixing something yourself.
2. Writing Handwritten Letters
Our grandparents knew the value of a handwritten letter. Whether it was to reconnect with a distant cousin, send warm wishes, or express love, those handwritten notes felt personal and full of heart. There’s something deeply rewarding in taking the time to sit, write, and connect on paper, and it’s an art that could bring us all a bit closer.
3. Maintaining a Family Recipe Book
Our grandparents didn’t just have recipes; they had family cookbooks, full of “a pinch of this” and “a dash of that,” many handwritten, with notes passed down for generations. Imagine the richness of being able to carry on those tastes and memories by making an effort to save and savor family recipes, especially as so many of them fade away.
4. Planting and Harvesting Their Own Gardens
Grandparents often kept gardens—not just for decoration but for food. Whether it was a patch of tomatoes, cucumbers, or herbs, growing their own produce gave them a connection to their meals. Tending to plants, understanding seasons, and savoring homegrown produce brought real fulfillment. Gardening has a way of slowing us down, grounding us, and reminding us of where our food comes from.
5. Using Cash Envelopes for Budgeting
The envelope budgeting system was a classic. Grandparents would put cash in envelopes marked for groceries, bills, or entertainment. There’s something to be said for how it helps manage spending and makes us more aware of where our money goes. It’s simple, it’s effective, and there’s no app that compares.
6. Reading the Newspaper Together Every Morning
Reading the newspaper was a daily ritual. They didn’t just skim headlines; they spent time over coffee discussing current events, editorials, and community news. With all the constant online noise, sitting down with a print paper not only slows down the news cycle but gives us back that intentional, mindful approach to staying informed.
7. Saving Pennies in a Piggy Bank
Grandparents had physical savings—even if it was just a jar of change or a little piggy bank. Seeing their savings accumulate gave them a sense of accomplishment and taught the next generation that every penny adds up. Physical savings jars may be old-fashioned, but they’re a great way to see and appreciate progress.
8. Making Home Remedies
Got a sore throat? Grandma had honey and lemon. Achy back? A homemade salve. They didn’t always run to the store for a new product. The remedies may not be cure-alls, but they remind us of natural ways to care for ourselves and show us that we don’t always need to rely on over-the-counter items.
9. Fixing Items Before Throwing Them Out
Our grandparents didn’t toss things at the first sign of wear. Instead, they’d grab glue, tape, or thread, and do what they could to make it last. Repairing household items not only saved money but helped reduce waste. Relearning how to fix small things teaches patience and resourcefulness.
10. Taking Evening Walks After Dinner
Many grandparents would walk around the neighborhood after dinner—a time to digest, reflect, or even catch up with a partner. It’s a simple habit that can aid digestion, reduce stress, and help us unwind. In a world where we rush from task to task, these evening strolls are a gentle reminder to take a breather.
11. Growing Relationships With Neighbors
Grandparents didn’t just know their neighbors; they connected with them. They helped watch each other’s kids, kept an eye on each other’s homes, and knew they could count on each other. Building real connections in our communities makes a world of difference, especially when it feels like so much of our lives are online.
12. Canning and Preserving Food
Canning was a way to make the garden harvest last longer, and it taught patience and planning. It’s a skill that makes us feel self-sufficient and ensures we know exactly what’s in our food. Making jams, sauces, and pickles also gives us a satisfying (and delicious) sense of accomplishment.
13. Shopping at Small, Local Businesses
Grandparents shopped at local stores, supporting bakers, butchers, and shopkeepers they knew. Local businesses gave them a community feel that today’s big-box stores just can’t replicate. Supporting small shops builds connections, supports local economies, and helps preserve our towns’ unique character.
14. Keeping Family Photo Albums
There’s something so grounding about flipping through a photo album full of family pictures. In a time of digital snapshots and endless cloud storage, our grandparents’ albums remind us of the value of selecting, preserving, and displaying memories that tell our family story.
15. Baking Bread and Cakes from Scratch
Many grandparents didn’t need a boxed mix—they knew their way around baking from scratch. The act of measuring, mixing, kneading, and baking brought them a sense of pride and appreciation for food, and it made the home feel welcoming and warm. These simple skills not only teach patience but offer a moment to slow down and savor life.
The thoughtful, intentional choices our grandparents made offered them a richer, slower-paced life full of self-sufficiency, community, and purpose. Trying to reintroduce some of these habits today could add a touch of that same warmth to our lives and remind us of the value of simpler, more meaningful routines.
