WichiTalk

Here’s a new twist on the traditional baby book: A book about grandma for her grandchild.

“The Grandmother Book: A Book About You for Your Grandchild” by Andy and Susan Hilford (Andrews McMeel, $18.99), new out this spring, lets grandma record details about her family, childhood, memories of her wild days and more.

The book has colorful illustrations and a touch of humor. The family tree page reads, “No squirrels in this tree (but maybe a few nuts).” And a few pages devoted to the man in grandma’s life is titled “Grandfather Studmuffin.”

Whether you’re the grandma-to-be or are expecting a child and want to honor your mom, tell us how you plan to teach your special baby about his or her family for a chance to win a free copy.

A Dear Abby column from earlier this week about how everyday kindness is the secret to a romantic, successful marriage is gaining attention online.

Do you agree? What kind act do you do for your significant other — or does he or she does for you — everyday?

My husband has sweetly accepted — and embraced — the fact that I need coffee to get my system up and running in the morning. (That must be why I find that silly T-shirt that says, “Instant human. Just add coffee.” so funny.) In the mornings, he’ll brew coffee or will sometimes get a carafe of my new favorite, French press, ready. If he’s in an especially generous mood, he’ll pour me a cup and add a sprinkle of Splenda and a splash of French vanilla coffee creamer. He gets the newspaper for me in the morning, too, although we’re trying to train our golden retriever to do that job.

Jenna Bush’s marriage to Henry Hager earlier this month on a Texas ranch shows that ranch or rural weddings can be rustic — but still elegant. Check out WichiTalk on Monday for a few tips for rustic receptions, from WeddingChannel.com.

In college, I was the guest at an outdoor wedding in a rural area not far from Kansas City. The landscape (home of the brides’ parents), with large, shady trees, was gorgeous. But, unfortunately, the weather turned bitterly cold and rainy. The bridal party’s makeup smeared. The flower girl got muddy. But that outdoor reception was a celebration, indeed. Everyone kicked off their shoes and danced on the portable floor underneath a big, white tent. The rain somehow made the night more magical. Everyone was laughing.

Were you married on a ranch or are you planning a rural wedding ceremony?