Grumpy but Grateful: One Grandma’s Hilarious Take on How the World Has Changed (and Why the Old Days Still Win)

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Remember when phones had cords and TVs needed antennas?

We sure have seen the world change, haven’t we? As grandmas, we’ve gone from rotary phones to video calls, and from handwritten letters to texting with emojis.

Now we’re trying to keep up with TikToks, YouTubers, and all these online stars! Don’t get me wrong—if it weren’t for technology, this website wouldn’t even be here, and you wouldn’t be reading this message. So yes, some of it is truly amazing.

But let’s be honest—sometimes, the “good old days” really did feel simpler and sweeter. So here’s my lighthearted (and maybe a little grumpy!) look at what kids have today… and why our way might’ve been better—at least a little bit. 😉

Dating

Back in my day, dating was simple and sweet. You’d meet someone at a dance or through a friend, and if you liked each other, you went out for ice cream or a movie. These days, it’s all about swiping on a screen to find the “perfect match.” It makes me wonder—where did all the romance go?

Television

We only had a few channels to choose from, and we watched whatever was on—and we liked it! Now, with hundreds of shows and apps, kids spend more time picking something than actually watching it. Sometimes too many choices can be just as tricky as not enough!

Travel

Planning a trip used to be part of the adventure! We flipped through brochures, called travel agents, and asked family for tips. These days, it’s all done with a click—but I still say staying with Aunt Myrtle on her lumpy couch beats a fancy Airbnb. It came with love… and maybe a squeaky spring or two!

Communication

I used to write long, heartfelt letters and wait by the mailbox for a reply. There was something special about that. Today, kids send a smiley face or a dancing cat gif. It’s cute, but I do miss the days when words meant a little more.

Photography

Back then, we had to wait weeks to see our pictures—and half the time, someone had their eyes closed or the photo was blurry! These days, kids take selfies all day long, making silly faces and adding filters that turn them into puppies or bunnies. It’s fun, but I do miss the surprise of waiting for that little envelope of printed memories.

Music

We had big vinyl records, and flipping them over felt like part of the fun—and a little workout too! Now, kids just tap a screen and have every song in the world at their fingertips. It’s handy, sure, but I don’t think you can love a song the same way when it’s that easy to skip.

Cooking

We learned to cook by standing beside our moms and grandmas, watching their hands and listening to their stories. Now, most people learn from strangers on the internet. (Though, I admit… I do share my recipes online too!) Still, there’s something special about learning a dish face-to-face, with love sprinkled in every step.

Shopping

Remember the joy of finding a good deal in a crowded store, coupons in hand? Now it’s all about clicking a button and waiting for a box to show up at the door. Sure, it’s faster—but I still love walking through the aisles and chatting with the cashier, even if the line is long.

News

We used to get our news from the newspaper—big, crinkly pages that left ink on your fingers. And let’s be honest, they were great for more than just reading! We used them to swat flies, wrap gifts, and line birdcages. Today’s online news? It’s handy, sure, but it doesn’t pull double duty like the old papers did!

Maps and Navigation

Remember pulling over to unfold a giant paper map—sometimes upside down—and figuring out where we were? Getting a little lost was part of the fun! These days, GPS tells you every turn before you even think about it. It’s helpful, but it’s just not the same kind of adventure.

Work and Career

When we got a job, we stuck with it. We built careers, not just paychecks. Now, it seems like folks jump from job to job. I guess times have changed—but there’s still something beautiful about staying loyal and growing with a company.

Education

We didn’t have Google. We had thick encyclopedias, library cards, and wise grandparents who told stories that taught us more than any textbook. I’m not sure kids today even know how magical a library can be!

Transportation

Back in the day, we got around by walking, riding bikes, or hopping on the bus. If you missed that last bus, you ran like the wind! Now, kids can call a car with just a tap or cruise around on electric scooters. It’s handy, but they’ll never know the little victories—like catching that bus just in time or finally finding a parking spot after circling the block.

Socializing

Video chats are nice, but they’ll never beat a potluck dinner with the neighbors. There’s just something special about everyone bringing a dish, sharing stories, and laughing together around a table. It’s those little gatherings that make a neighborhood feel like family.

Hobbies

Before smartphones and viral videos, we had hobbies that taught us patience and creativity. We learned to knit scarves, build birdhouses, and paint pictures from the heart. Those quiet moments doing something with your hands? They brought real joy.

Fashion

We didn’t have closets full of brand-new outfits. We wore hand-me-downs from our siblings and made every piece last. Today’s kids jump from one trend to the next, but back then, clothes carried memories—and maybe a patch or two sewn with love.

Fitness

We didn’t need fancy workout gear or fitness apps. Just keeping up with the chores, running errands, and chasing after the kids kept us moving all day long. Staying active was just a part of everyday life—no gym membership needed!

Parenting

Today’s parents have blogs, podcasts, and experts around every corner. We had instincts, common sense, and maybe a neighbor or two to ask for help. We learned as we went—and somehow, our kids turned out just fine (with maybe a few bumps and bruises along the way).

Banking

We used passbooks, paper checks, and chatted with real people at the bank. Now, it’s all apps and touchscreens. Sure, it’s quicker—but I miss the friendly teller who knew my name and the little pride I felt when my checkbook balanced just right.

Activism

Now it’s hashtags and online petitions. Back then, we rolled up our sleeves and hit the streets, marching side by side. We may have walked uphill in the snow (or at least it felt like it!), but we believed in showing up and making our voices heard.

Don’t get me wrong—I do appreciate some of the things technology has made easier. After all, without it, I wouldn’t be able to chat and share stories with all you lovely grandmas online! So even if I sound a little grumpy sometimes, I’ll admit it—maybe there’s room for both the old ways and the new ones.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a TikTok dance to practice… wish me luck!

Read Also: 15 Wild Things That Today’s Kids Will Never Experience

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