Relocating from Georgia to Kansas four years ago marked a significant change for my family. We aimed to provide our sons, aged 6 and 8, with the opportunity to grow up surrounded by relatives in my small hometown.
Our new residence isn’t just my childhood home but also a community filled with extended family. This includes my parents, a brother, multiple aunts and uncles, and many cousins. The proximity of more relatives within an hour’s drive is a blessing.
Living Proximity Fosters Family Connections
The close-knit family setup means my children have the chance to bond with their cousins. Playdates and sports events often feature these familial connections, whether on the same team or as friendly rivals.
In the local school, seven cousins, including my kids and their second cousins, learn together, with three sharing the same grade. Next year, two more will join them as they start kindergarten. My mother, who works there, conveniently brings my children home. This closeness allows for carpooling, shared playdates, and coordination on school events.
As they grow, opportunities for hosting and participating in sleepovers with trusted family members will emerge. In a world where such activities are less common, having trustworthy adults around is reassuring.
The spontaneous and planned moments of support and play with family are invaluable. I can comfortably send my kids to relatives, knowing they are in good hands.
More Couple Time and Support
Living close to my parents has its perks for my husband and me, as well. We enjoy more date nights, with our children eagerly anticipating sleepovers at their grandparents’ house. These breaks allow us to enjoy social outings or relaxing evenings at home.
Courtesy of Bethaney Phillips
My parents are also available for quick visits, like when my youngest wants to visit Grammy after school. If she’s free, she’ll pick him up, giving me some peace to tidy up the house. It’s a familiar routine, and my husband often checks if the kids need to be picked up from their grandparents’ place.
During the summer, if errands demand my attention and the kids prefer staying home, my retired dad steps in to supervise, ensuring everyone is content.
Though the small-town life comes with its challenges, such as my Southern husband’s aversion to cold winters, it provides an ideal setting for raising our family.
