Anderson's Cookies

March 5, 2009

A tale of two Grandmas

Posted: 04:00 PM ET

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Jack Gray
AC360° Producer/Writer

Whether you agree with her family’s politics or not, it’s tough to deny that Barbara Bush has not evolved over the years into a national symbol of familial fortitude. America’s grandmother, if you will. Her hospitalization has prompted me to reflect on my own grandmothers: their love, their support and their passion for gambling in international waters.

On my father’s side I have Grammie. Grammie is a Massachusetts native whose ancestors go back many generations in New England. They were the ones at that first Thanksgiving in Plymouth saying, “That’s a beautiful centerpiece, but where’s the bar?”

Grammie is amongst the most kind-hearted and generous people I’ve ever known. I remember her this past Christmas, sitting down at the head of the table and saying, “I hope you all enjoy your roast beef. I’m just going to sit here and eat this plate full of lobster in front of you.”


Her likes include vodka martinis, my grandfather’s credit card and keeping an eye out for squirrels trying to get into bird feeders.

Her dislikes include telemarketers, blood thinners and 25-year-old grandchildren who refuse to participate in Easter egg hunts.

Like Barbara Bush, Grammie has been sidelined before. Years back she had to go into the hospital “for some tests.” Which, of course, in my family actually means, “She just had a stroke.”

As I’m sure will be the case with Mrs. Bush, Grammie bounced right back.

In fact, a few years ago she started getting really into Mimosa. At first it was just for major holidays. But then it seemed that whenever I’d visit she’d have a full pitcher on the counter. “Well, we had to do something to celebrate Flag Day Eve,” she’d huff.

On my mother’s side I have Yiayia, which is Greek for grandmother. Far from the stereotype of My Big Fat Greek Wedding, my Yiayia is a woman of understated elegance and refined tastes. In translation, she smells and looks great when she’s killing a lamb with her bare hands.

Yiayia loathes any semblance of extravagance amongst her children. Which reminds me, don’t ask her about her nose job or Cadillac.

Her likes include German Shepherds, post-it notes and counting cards. She is also living proof that Vegas casino owners cannot be bribed with Baklava.

Her dislikes include sleeping more than 90 minutes per night, the phone ringing during Larry King and anyone who doubts the psychic powers of Shirley MacLaine.

Her favorite saying is, “Patience is a virtue.” I remember her telling me that while she was passing a fire engine that was en route to a flaming house.

Knock on wood, Yiayia has had no major health problems. This is no small feat considering her habit of starting fistfights at pool halls.

Like Grammie, Yiayia is a terrific cook with a heart of gold. This year I got a tin of cookies with a lovely note: “Keep Out – for Anderson Cooper ONLY.”

Now that I live in New York, I see my grandmothers all too infrequently. But I speak to them often and they’re always in my heart. They’ve even mastered sending e-mails.

As I imagine Barbara Bush is for her family, my own grandmothers are a source of strength for me.

And for that, I will be forever grateful.

As long as their birthday checks don’t bounce.

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