Tuesday evening my whole nuclear family and grandson enjoyed a casual dinner at Chili's and then watched cartoons in my recliner with my grandson by my side, laughing, tickling and eating almond cookies. I retired to bed contentedly.

Then, early Wednesday morning my daughter and grandson left for Texas. They arrived last night at their new home, with my grandson's father and daughter's boyfriend of 7 years. My grandson's paternal grandfather lives nearby.

My grandson's...

Contrary emotions flutter their leathery wings in the night over my bed as I lay awake, staring at the ceiling:

Every parent wants to see their children grow up and leave the nest, and to part on happy and loving terms.

But every grandparent loves to see their grandchildren and to spend time with them.

So when my daughter moves out, and takes her son (my grandson) with her, I am glad to see her leave (not glad in the sense of animosity, but in pride),...