I'm certain my father feels exasperation from time to time at the things we put off without a second thought, such as getting our cars serviced, locking our doors and making certain the garbage is put out the night before it is to be picked up. There have been a few times when I felt more like a liaison working at the United Nations in negotiating a peaceful settlement where both sides can feel they have reached an acceptable compromise. It doesn't happen often, but I've learned I have bargaining prowess I never suspected I possessed. Most times, however, it is unbelievably peaceful and amazingly easy. The principals involved all genuinely love and care about each other.
All members bring something to the table.
After observing and, in fact, living in this family unit for a little over a year, I have seen my mother and father open themselves up and stretch their imagination in many positive ways, thanks to their grandchildren. I also have watched my kids learn things from my parents that they never would have gleaned otherwise. Sometimes at dinner, I can't help but look at each member of my multigenerational family and realize that, for all the compromises and occasional adjustments, this is a golden time. Everyone I care most about in this world is under my roof. As I bask in the warmth of my family, I remind myself to take as little for granted as possible.