Q: We are very excited that our 14-year-old grandson will be spending his two-month summer vacation with us while his parents travel. We own a farm and do not have nearby neighbors. Our biggest concern is that his old grandparents may bore him.

How can we make his visit memorable, enjoyable and productive?

A: Not to worry. There is no doubt he will bring his phone, laptop and other electronic gear to keep in touch with his buddies back home! One big advantage of his visit may be that he can be helpful by teaching you how to use a computer if you have one. If not, hopefully, he can encourage you to buy one. Email is today's way of keeping in touch.

While I was growing up in Oklahoma, both of my parents worked. I was assigned tasks that included some meal preparation, household cleaning and painting. I often balked at doing them, but not doing them wasn't an option.

Having your grandson visit is an opportunity to teach him how to survive and cope with his future. Teaching him how to scramble an egg, drive a tractor, milk a cow, and ride a horse would be winners.

As none of us knows where life will lead us, becoming self-sufficient and able to take care of ourselves enhances our lives. Now, I thank my parents for that!

Q: I am 17 and live with my mom and new stepfather. My dad died six years ago while serving in the military. My mother has remarried. My stepfather has been divorced, but he did not have children. I never expected to get a "bonus father" and am thankful I did. We have bonded, communicate, and he takes care of me.

His birthday is coming up next month, and I would like to give him something to show how thankful and happy I am to be his son.

What could that be?

A: Do you already have an animal in your home? If not, chat with your mom and find out if that would be OK. Your local animal shelter always has a variety of choices available. There are advantages to adopting older pets because they have had their health checkups, developed their personalities, have some manners, have been potty-trained, are less destructive, and you get what you see.

Other options are to invite dad to go fishing, take a bike ride, or go hiking. You could also write him a letter in which you express your thankfulness for the luck of becoming his son. You could also go to a print shop and have "WORLD'S GREATEST STEPFATHER LIVES HERE!" to tack on your front door.

Being a grandfather, I know what he really wants. Give him a high five, a great a big bear hug for a minute or two, and a kiss!

Doug Mayberry makes the most of life in a Southern California Retirement community. Contact him at [email protected]. To find out more about Doug Mayberry and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.