Winter Seed Catalog Moon
Kate and I talked about Denver, about the grandkids, about dogs, about our home here. 
We’ve decided, for now, to remain here. When we’re down to one dog and/or, have smaller dogs, we might consider a move. If we end up in a situation where we have to vacate this house for physical reasons, we might consider a move.
We also discussed ways we can be more actively engaged in our grandchildren’s lives over a distance. In the past we’ve said we want to see them at least four times a year for a week or so at a time. The Stock Show, their birthdays, which, thankfully, are close together, a time in the summer and a time during Holiseason, Thanksgiving or Hanukkah for example. We’ve done regular skype times, but those grew pro forma, too routine; so we need to come up with ways to communicate with them regularly, but in different ways.
As a man of German cultural influence (though with considerable Celtic influence, too), there is a strong sense of duty when it comes to family and it got triggered this last visit to 
Colorado. These kids are not just Jon and Jen’s responsibility, but mine, too. Kate’s, too. While the American mobility patterns of the last few decades have separated us physically, the bonds are no less strong and no less real.
It’s up to Kate and me to figure how to remain in Gabe and Ruth’s life. We’re not alone in this, I know. Again, any thoughts from any of you out there will be appreciated.
