Hi Everyone!

[gja1000]

Judy, I do know how you feel. When Abigail was 4-12, she spent every weekend at my house. I loved having her, but I work and it really was a chore to have her here and get everything done I needed to do. It was a relief when she started athletics that required her to play/practice almost every Saturday (so she didn't stay over - maybe Saturday night only). Then, she developed so many friends about age 11-12, and they all visit each other over the weekend. So now, she hardly ever stays over and I really miss her sometimes. But I see her a lot, go to her volleyball games, and stay as involved as my time will allow.

However, I just don't think I'll be able to take Emma every weekend like I did Abigail - although Emma may not want to stay with us - who knows. I have so much more to do with Gary now, and he needs a lot of my attention. After his best friend died, he doesn't go out much, and his health is much more tenuous now anyway, if he was running around, I'd just be a nervous wreck! Yet, I don't want Emma to not be able to stay with us some of the time - however, I just don't think I can keep her every weekend. Now, that may be a moot point if the kids have to move to Houston - which is looking more imminent. Of course, then I will be so sad that they are 3 hours away, and I can't run over to see them any time I want. Although in some ways, that will be better. But I will still be really sad!

Anyway, I do understand your feeling like you are at their beck and call all the time and I know that doesn't feel very good. I need my space and alone time and the older I get the crankier I get when I don't get it. I have fallen into the trap of picking up my mom from church and taking her home every Sunday at noon (she rides to church with a friend, but can't ride home with her and the church is near my house). She called tonight, and I just thought, "I don't know what I'm doing tomorrow and I need a break from picking you up!" So, I told her I didn't know what we'd be doing and to call me tomorrow. I'll probably pick her up, but grrrrrrr........

Maybe that is even more reason to get away to FL for part of the winter! Maybe I'll join you! LOL!!!

[Janet]

I'm really understanding out you both feel, but not with grandchildren.....my mother. I'm exhausted and tired of it. But then again ...I love my Mom and I really do want to help her and be with her....just not all the time.

I think I want to go to Florida with you two....just don't say anything to my Mom...she'll want to go.

[gja1000]

Originally Posted by Janet

I'm really understanding out you both feel, but not with grandchildren.....my mother. I'm exhausted and tired of it. But then again ...I love my Mom and I really do want to help her and be with her....just not all the time.

I think I want to go to Florida with you two....just don't say anything to my Mom...she'll want to go.

Yes Janet, it is quite a chore to be at someone's beck and call, especially when you have responsibilities of your own. So many people do it though, that I feel guilty about complaining - especially about complaining about my grandchildren - and ESPECIALLY when Betsi doens't ever get to see her grandchildren anymore. Yet, I get so tired and stressed sometimes and just need a break!!!

[Janet]

I so understand. I know I don't have much time left with Mom, but sometimes she acts like I'm suppose to stop whatever I'm doing and run to help her. It takes me 15-20 minutes to get to her house. I feel guilty sometimes too for complaining about it, but what else can we do? We sure don't want to complain to them because it would hurt their feelings too bad.

At the rate my son is going....doubt I'll be alive to see grandchildren. He's only gone out with one girl, got his heart broke and that's been it. He's not even looking right now. Says he needs to get a full time job and wants a better vehicle. I think he's just afraid of getting his heart broke again. Maybe someday.

[gja1000]

Just to let everyone know that we are leaving tomorrow for Arkansas. We'll be back next Tuesday. I may be able to check in, but maybe not - I'm not sure how strong my phone signal will be. I'll probably be able to read, but may not be able to post much. I'll be thinking of all of you and will try to remember to take some pictures to share. Unfortunately, the leaves won't be turning much yet. It would be so nice to have some fall foliage pix, but don't think there will be any. I'll be thinking of all of you!

[judy]

Have a great time and a safe trip!

[DianaB]

Have a fun and relaxing time, Gayle. You deserve it!!!

[Janet]

Hope you have a wonderful time Gayle....stay safe....and of cours....take lots of pictures.