This can be frustrating, especially if you've been picturing these 'adventures" in your mind. But in the end, I think, we have to accept their decision. After all, these are THEIR kids, NOT ours. They have a right to make these parental decisions, even if we don't like it or think they're being unreasonable.

What does your DD say about this? You seem to think it's all your son-in-law's (SIL's) doing. I trust you're not badgering her about this. No good can possibly come of trying to put her in the middle between you and her husband. But I'm sure you realize that. Happily, you're coming to us, instead.

Is there a "fixable" reason that your SIL objects to your driving your grandson (GS)? Like maybe you don't have a carseat for him and the law - or his parents concern - requires it? That could easily be remedied. Please be willing to put aside any issues regarding car safety or the like and accept their rules, especially if this will make the difference. (But of course, perhaps that's not the problem).

You might want to run this problem by one of the groups in our new Groups section and see what responses you get there. Dr. Georgia On Your Mind is one possibility. (Just click on Groups above and you'll find it on the featured list.) Or Family Communication 101 (Go to Groups above and click on Family Matters and you'll find it.)

Meanwhile, have a Happy 4th!

Fredigram (moderator Grandparents Caring for Grandkids and The Family Storybook)

Activities could be at home, in a local park, or close enough that a parent can drive and join you all.

The child's parents makes the call on who they feel safe driving their children, of course. Its out of your control, so no point at all in fretting about it. There's no choice to be made or action to take, so do you have the freedom to just let it go....