This week, I had the hardest, saddest day I’ve ever had in my entire life. Friday morning, I watched my grandchildren get into their parent’s cars for the 700 mile ride to their new home.
All their lives, my grandchildren have lived within 10 minutes of me. At some point every weekend, I would see my grandchildren. We did Home Depot workshops together, were together every holiday, I’ve hugged and kissed them on their birthdays, seen them off to their first day of school, picked them up on half days.
To say I’m wrecked is an understatement.
My grandkids grew up around the dogs, but I have to say, my granddaughter is the one who is closest to them. One of her favorite things to do is to walk Sampson.
On Thursday afternoon, my granddaughter walked Sampson for her last time. On the walk we talked about the very real possibility that Sampson might not be here when she comes up this summer.
One of the things I love most about Sampson is his ability to draw people to him. He’s gentle and easy-going and most people fall in love with him. My granddaughter is no exception.
Wednesday and Thursday night my grandchildren and their parents (my daughter and son-in-law) stayed at my house because their furniture was loaded onto a truck.
That is how I happened to witness my granddaughter kneeling down and kissing Sampson on his head and telling him goodbye. I’ve kissed him on his head thousands of times myself, but my granddaughter never has.
Even in the midst of my sadness, knowing my sweet boy has touched my granddaughter as deeply as he’s touched me, made me smile.
What did your pet do this week that made you laugh or smile?
You make me laugh (or smile.) The sweet, funny, loving things dogs do that make us laugh or smile.
Sue, Shadow and Ducky says
Awww, that tender moment between your granddaughter and Sampson will forever be etched into your memory. ❤️
I’m sorry your daughter and her family are moving so far away. I know it breaks your heart. Hopefully they will be able to visit soon and often.
Madison says
Well, you made us cry. We are super sad for you. On the positive side, with technology, you can do video calls, and phone calls anytime. It wasn’t that long ago, just a long distance call was expensive. When you visit, or they come to visit you, it will be 24/7 for days. You will get a big chunk of quality time. Maybe the kids can come visit you when they have school breaks sometimes too. Life is about change. Lots of the changes suck, but we all try to find the good in them to mentally handle it all. GBGV hugs to you.
Meagan & Merlin says
Aww you made me tear up ❤
Jan K says
Well, that certainly made me tear up too, not smile! OK, a little smile at the sweet picture you painted of your granddaughter and Sampson.
I have a feeling the sweet old guy might just hang in there for at least one more visit. I hope you can still get to see your grandchildren in many different ways – with the joys of today’s technology. But I know it’s still not quite the same as having them in your life daily. Sending big hugs.
Mary Hone says
So sorry for you. We don’t have grand kids, but I do miss my nieces, mom, and sons. And yes, the new technology will help you stay in contact so much better.
jan says
I went through the separation from my grandkids years ago but this year we were able to move closer. During the apart years we had incredible summer visits.
Brian Frum says
Oh that really was a sad moment, hugs.
Monika & Sam says
You brought tears to my eyes this morning. So sorry to hear a part of your heart is moving away. It’s hard when life situations require family separation. Hopefully you’ll be able to FaceTime often. I’m sure because you’ve played such a big part in your granddaughter’s life, she will miss those times too. I hope 2019 brings joyful reunions for you all. 💞
Cupcake says
Family members moving away is too sad. I hope Sampson is on board with FaceTime or Skype so they can stay in touch!
Love and licks,
Cupcake
mommakatandherbearcat says
We hope you have a wonderful New Year – full with love, peace, and happiness.
As hard as it is to watch them go, at least you had those opportunities in the first place! I hardly knew my paternal grandparents at all – and hearing my cousins memories of them always hurt.
Stefanie says
The good news is you can be an awesome far away grandma! My nieces live out of state but I get to be the aunt that sends them fun cool things- they love getting mail! It’s not the same as them being right there, but it can still become a fun new chapter for all of you. 🙂