How many times do you pick up the phone and call your grandparents during the school year? Probably not as many times as you should. I think we sometimes forget that not only are we getting older, but so are they. You may think you couldn't possibly have that much in common with someone that much older than you, but I promise that you have a lot more in common with them than you think. Here are a few reasons why you should spend more time with your grandparents this summer and always:

1. Your grandparents are getting older every day, and you should take advantage of every second you have with them.

2. Grandparents give the best advice, hands down.

3. Grandparents don't have the full responsibility of raising you, so they can have a lot more fun with you.

4. Take a road trip with your grandparents. Just do it. You won't regret it.

5. Grandmothers are always the best cooks. Take cooking lessons from your grandmother. You'll be so glad you did.

6. Grandparents are always there when you need them.

7. Grandparents know everything about everything. I call my grandfather for everything from questions about taking out student loans to how to change a flat tire.

8. You would be surprised at how much you can learn from hearing about your grandparents' childhood and young adult years. Ask them about it.

Even though we hate to think about it, there will inevitably come a day when our grandparents are farther away from us than a phone call. Take time out of your summer and every other month of the year to spend time with your grandparents. Call them more and check in. I encourage you to really listen to the stories they have to tell and the advice they have to give. I have learned more about life and what it means to be a good person from my grandparents than anyone else in my life. Don't let your time with them slip through your fingers.