We all know life is a trade-off and we usually have to give up something to gain something. That's our situation now as we plan to move from our home in Washington state after the last 22 years. Our travel budget crisscrossing the country to visit relatives is shocking and our young families do not have the resources to visit here as often as we'd like.
It is not easy to give up the summer hiking opportunities in the nearby mountains and ocean beaches. And it is tough to leave a wonderfully safe and quiet neighborhood with upstanding neighbors. Most of all, we're forfeiting easy personal access to dear friends and associates, though we'll be coming back several times each year. I've learned the hard way to treasure those rare, close and intimate friendships that occasionally bless our lives. I have them here in Lewis County.
But the trade-off is significant. What we'll gain by moving to Northern Minnesota is closeness to more of our family. Four of our five adult children and all seven (thus far) active grandchildren live within a day's drive of Brainerd, MN and the lakes region. A talented son, who is single, remains in Chehalis so we'll stay connected.
As I've gotten older and hopefully wiser, I am aware that we only have one go-round with grandchildren. The joys of watching them develop from energetic and carefree children into responsible, contributing adults is a highlight of a grandparent's life. With two of them already out of the nest I am grateful for the chance to be more present for their younger counterparts' plays, recitals, ball games and holidays.
My annual highlight is experiencing family togetherness in a lake cabin setting, cruising a chain of clear, fresh water lakes, playing games and telling stories around a fire pit. Of course every family has its issues and challenges, but the wonderful blend of personalities, creativity and togetherness is a gift we truly appreciate and need.
We don't have an exact timetable for this move, but doing so will make such gatherings easier and more frequent.
