I had my kids while young as well -- my youngest is starting school tomorrow - I am 31. I just wanted to comment that it is very sad that you are willing to see your dgd and are unable. I rarely ask for help with my kids - but both my mother and mother-in-law are unwilling to watch them for me even for brief periods. They complain that they never get to see the kids - but when I ask if they can watch them for a couple hours so hubby and I can have a date they suddenly have other plans (I only ask once a year or so). Hubby has a job interview in another state, I called my mil and told her I really NEED some help with the kids for a few days so we could go check things out -- her reply "that's interesting"
I hope your dgd's mother realizes what a blessing she has in grandparents for her daughter!