They are gone, yet the reminders that they were here for a year are all around. Last March our daughter and 9 month old grandson moved into our home while our son-in-law deployed to Afghanistan. Those first days were an adjustment for all of us, yet we eventually grew into a comfortable place as a family living together. The year has flown by even though there have been many long days (there always are when there are a toddler involved).
Our grandson learned to crawl the same week he moved in and he has been on the move ever since. Mostly he has moved his way into our daily lives and our hearts. He was always waiting to greet us in the morning and to give us kisses before bedtime. He would seek out Grandpa and Grammie when he wanted to read, go outside (with Grandpa) or just snuggle – needless to say this little blond hair boy is very dear to us. This year has been a gift to us, to be a daily part of this dear little boy’s daily life – I doubt that we will have this experience again. We are so very thankful.
Even though they left yesterday, there are reminders of his presence everywhere I look – Mr & Mrs. Potato Head are sitting on the window seat, there are little fingerprints on our coffee table, mirrors and windows, my tennis shoes are on the couch (not sure why he thought they belonged there) and his toys remain in their spot – untouched. Our home will be much quieter now (and cleaner I might add), but both my husband and I are already missing the little blond hair boy and his mama.
We are excited to see this sweet family reunited and are so thankful for our son-in-law and the thousands like him who are serving our country. I have seen first hand the price that those in the military and their families pay for our freedom and it is hard. So many families are not able (or do not have the support systems) in place to support one another through deployment - there are so many needs. Please pray for our daughter, son-in-law and grandson as they reunite and for the many others in similar situations.
“A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely in families.” Psalm 68:5 & 6
truly bittersweet … I hope that adjusting to a new normal will go smoothly. I am so glad that you were able to spend so much time with your daughter and grandson during this time.
As an aside – I know that you openly admit your weaknesses in how you started out parenting, but I think that ALL of your daughters have turned out PHENOMENAL … evidence of God working in their lives, yes, but also a testament to yours and Bill’s faithfulness in parenting them well. I have a great deal of respect for you. Lots of love!
Every stage of life is full of joys and challenges and most often when you are looking back with perspective is bittersweet.
Love you!
What a wonderful privilege. I am so happy you and Bill were able to have them in your home. I know these memories will last a life time, not only for you but for your daughter and grandson. I enjoy hearing about your life. Miss you and hope your adjustment to the empty nest goes well.
Love you,
Ruth