Grandparents are very special people for those lucky enough to have them in our lives. A relationship with a grandparent is a unique one because they fall into a category different from that of a parent, friend, or any other type of relative. Grandparents often serve as mentors, encouragers, and eager listening ears for their grandchildren as we grow up. There are many things about them, small and large, that we often forget to take a moment to appreciate.

1. Their door is always open for you.

You probably have your own key or maybe even a garage door opener if you're one of the more favored grandchildren. Even the most unexpected of visits will never be turned down.

2. Along with the open door policy comes an open pantry.

Walking in the door is usually shortly followed by a shameless search for snacks to munch on while you catch them up on your life.

3. Once you went off to college, it seems a legitimate preparation process was put into place for when your grandparents get word that you're coming home.

A chicken or turkey is bought to be roasted on the night of your arrival, other family members are alerted of the impending feast, and fresh sheets will surely be put on the bed you stay in.

4. When it's time to head back to school, your grandparents will either offer to take you grocery shopping with them or just pack you a few bags full of items from their own pantry and whatever else you may need back at the dorm room.

5. There will always be those recipes that only your grandmother can get just right.

Her oatmeal cookies have made you into a true cookie snob, and you wouldn't have it any other way. The fact that her long-cherished recipe is written on the same aging paper it was on circa the 1960s is just a charming added bonus.

6. Never forget all of the times your grandma was a stand-in for your mom when you were home sick from school, and even still today.

She's probably the only person who could take care of you just as well as your own mother.

7. Your grandparents were your very first customers in your Girl Scout cookie selling career.

Shortly after this first sale, they gladly handed over the Rolodex and allowed you to sit at the kitchen table and harass the other family members (whether you personally knew them or not) via phone calls made from the home phone.

8. Trying to teach them how to use technology.

At a certain point, all parties will most likely accept the fact that achieving success in this endeavor is near impossible.But your grandparents appreciate your repeated efforts and tutorials nonetheless.

9. Your grandparents always want to hear about your day, and they appreciate when your take the time for phone calls more than you realize.

No detail is too insignificant to share.

10. Your grandmother has always somehow been able to eyeball your clothing size to a tee.

Whether you were seven and still getting jeans from Limited Too or had just come home sporting the freshman 15 and were in search of a new slouchy sweater, the clothes she brings home for you will somehow always be a perfect fit.

11. Let's be honest, your grandparents always have an extra $20 for you when you come around.

Just don't mention it to the other grandkids, or your parents for that matter.

12. If you tell your grandparents one accomplishment you've made, they see you as their hero, and you can bet will they take full advantage of bragging rights.

Before you know it, you'll be hearing congratulations from the entire extended family about your first internship, even if it is unpaid and part time.

13. It should never be forgotten how well your grandfather held back his frustration and how you were granted his immediate forgiveness the time you ran over a bush with their car when you were 16.

According to your parents and their siblings, this now easy temper wasn't quite the same one they grew up with. (Another advantage of being their grandchild!)

When looking back at all our grandparents have done for us and all we have to appreciate about them, one short list could never be nearly enough to express how grateful us grandchildren should be. Remember, those of us lucky enough to have our grandparents in our lives should never take the privilege for granted because unfortunately they won't be with us forever. Cherish your time with your grandparents, and if you're reading this article, give them a call!