Mid 1961 my parents took the plunge and we emigrated from the Netherlands to New Zealand. Due to health issues with my baby brother we returned to the Netherlands early 1967.
Unsettled, family in fits and starts back to New Zealand by mid 1971.
Seesaw immigrants you could say.
In 2000 I returned to the Netherlands on my own. My 28 year marriage had stranded, my children were of adult age and forging their own paths. One son had moved over to Australia in 1997 where he created his own family.
So you could say, we are scattered hither and yon. Each living their lives in the manner personally designed. This is my 21st year back in the Netherlands. It has brought me happiness and pain. Being this far removed from the children en growing grandchildren hasn't been all plain sailing but it hasn't all been terrible either. My main goal was- visit every 18 months, more if possible, less if the needs ( financial) must.
This past year has been a true trial. I haven't been able to even plan a trip let alone make one. I've got the presents. Purchasing the odd thing along the way. They sat and stared at me, pleading to be given and used. I have had to put them in the cupboard. Can't bear to look at them. I want to hand them over myself. See their faces when they open their gift. There is an option to post/ship a box full for everyone. I may have to resort to that.
To fill some of the void, I have written a couple of short stories and had the books printed via a photo album site. I may tape myself reading them and send the file. Had other ideas. Bedtime moment ideas. Those will have to wait.
I have been making videos ( I am an amateur) on YouTube, showing off the places I go to. Teaching them more about this country of their fore-fathers and mothers. Sharing my life in a small way. Another way to reach out instead of being able to tell the tales and describe the events. It fills the time, as I am then totally focussed on them. It feels like I'm visiting. It is one way of creating 'visits'. I especially love the cooking videos, thinking that maybe one day, they may use these recipes themselves.
The videos aren't as personal as you would think. That's because I know other family and friends watch them. I also created a cook book for some of the younger grandchildren with some recipes I use regularly. I have another one on the way for the older grandchildren. A bit more elaborate. Oh how I would love to provide them personally with meals and cakes. This is the next best thing. I love it when I'm told they have used the cookbook or have watched a video.
It's not like we are online every day, all the time. Lives are being lived. School, events, friends, work, time out, time in. Not to mention the juggling the clock and time difference. I think we have a healthy relationship in which we allow each other to share what they choose. It is normal for them and me, to continue to live our life to suit our situation. By doing some of the wee extra things I hope to maintain a bond which in turn brings our lives a little closer.
There is nothing more special that spending time together, even when you are apart. There are so many ways in which one can do that these days. Sadly my grandparents in 1961 didn't have any of the options we have today. I am hopeful for the future. For my next possible visit. I do my best to stay healthy and fit and am grateful for the fact that my family Down Under is safe and well. That is the most precious thing of all.
