Marian McQuade, (1917-2008) the founder of Grandparents Day hoped to persuade grandchildren to tap the wisdom and heritage their grandparents could provide. Something that America’s 70 million grandparents, and their families, can easily achieve thanks to the valuable advice offered by award-winning grief expert and author, Gemini Adams, in her latest book, Your Legacy of Love: Realize the Gift in Goodbye.

In this inspirational guide, she suggests we capture our Emotional Assets: our memories, voice, values, image, stories, and affections, using various media to create a timeless memento that grandchildren will treasure forever. Grandparents can find new meaning to this national holiday, which takes place on September 13, 2009, by following the six-steps that Adams says, “are essential for those looking to share their worldly wisdom or leave a lasting and loving impression.”

1.    Good Guidance – Pass on valuable life instructions and lessons, by capturing your wisdom in a Grandpa or Grandma Guide, to help children and grandchildren make “better”  life choices.

2.   Future Surprises – Avoid the heartbreak on special celebrations, such as 21st birthdays, weddings, graduations or bar mitzvahs, by preparing meaningful gifts to be delivered on your behalf. Leave them with a trusted loved one.

3.    Life Story – Capture your voice, memories, voice, image, and share family values, by writing your own life story, or recording it on video,  so that your family will appreciate the value of the past, and always remain connected to you.

4.    Musical Memories – Create a CD of your favorite music, including the first song played on your wedding night, or one from a special family occasion, to help your loved ones recall the memories of the great times they spent with you.

5.    Define Your Wishes – Plan ahead for the end-of-life, so you can eradicate last minute stress, guaranteeing you and your family get the service you deserve.

6.    Life Celebrations – Make advance plans to ensure the service reflects the real you, reduces the burden for your surviving family and ensure they have a more positive experience at your final farewell party.
Your Legacy of Love: Realize the Gift in Goodbye, by Gemini Adams, (5.5 x 8.5, Softcover, ISBN: 978-0615193755, $14.99 US/$16.99 CAN) is available at all major bookstores, the authors site www.realizethegift.com and Amazon.com or direct from Live Consciously Publishing.