An Empty-Nester's Christmas Poem

‘Twas days before Christmas

And all through our house

No children were stirring

It was quiet as a mouse.

----------------

The stockings were packed

With our suitcases and gifts

In the hopes that our road trip

Would be free from all glitches.

----------------

We FaceTimed our grandkids

Before they went to bed

Telling them we’d see them

"In a few sleeps," we said.

----------------

I bought a winter hat

And Papa a coat

We knew we must dress warm

Now that we’re older folks.

----------------

Our home is still festive

Though only for our eyes

I am determined that Christmas

Is celebrated and won't die.

----------------

Though no baking has happened

Nor candy canes on our tree

The lights and the garland

Bring comfort to me.

----------------

Gone are the days of

Anticipation and fun

But a new set of traditions

Are being sought out and won.

----------------

It’s true that the distance

Can bring heartache and pain

But we’re choosing to focus

On the good without shame.

----------------

For no matter how far

From our home they may move

In our hearts they’re as close

As these words are to you.

----------------

And each time we’re together

We hug with merry cheer

Grateful that God has blessed us

With another full year.

----------------

When the time comes once again

To say our good-byes

I'll hold them all close

Wiping tears from my eyes.

----------------

I've learned that each tear

Is precious to God

For He keeps them in His bottle

They represent how well we love.

----------------

So if this Christmas you find

That everything has changed

We pray you'll discover the strength

To begin new once again.

----------------

Merry Christmas from our empty-nest to yours!

It's Been Too Long, But There's A Good Reason

Photos by Sierra Blanco Photography

I was shocked to realize I haven't posted anything for almost a year. But when I think about all that has happened it makes perfect sense.

Our daughter got engaged in July of last year and married in January. She also moved to another state faraway where we had to make two separate trips by car to help move her things. I am hoping they will return to Florida before starting their family, but I've learned to hold my hopes in this department loosely.

My grandkids are getting older and range from age 2 to almost 11. My Nana's Newsletter is not as regular these days either, I'm sad to say, but I know that the next one is going out soon.

Today I want to share with you something our daughter did at her wedding reception. She has two grandfathers and wanted to honor them on her special day. She decided to surprise them with a special dance where she began with one and ended with the other. Her paternal grandfather has always lived faraway, so connecting on a regular basis has been difficult. Especially since she became an adult. This moment brought tears to my eyes as I realized being faraway doesn't mean far at heart. She holds them both close and cherishes any time she has with them. Sadly two of her grandmothers are no longer here, but she honored them with photos on a table declaring her eternal love for them.

This fuels my passion to connect with my faraway grandchildren. They need to know no matter the distance my heart couldn't love them more. They are precious to me.



Do you remember your grandparents? How can your relationship with them help you cultivate your relationship with your grandchildren?