Values Forum: Family Programs

Traditions - Family Separations

Home videos help families who live considerable distances from one another, keep in touch. This technology allows grandparents and other family members to enjoy the enormous changes that take place the first years in a new family member's life. Photos are always popular, and less expensive.

"We had a large family. When children started leaving the nest, we kept in touch by sending an audio tape once a week. Every Friday night, during the family meal which everyone who lived at home was required to attend, a tape recorder was passed around the table and each family member, and any guests, recorded a personal message which included a brief report of their week. The entire family was informed about each others activities, not just the person who was away from home. This practice developed communication skills as well as keeping the family close." Female, California

"When my dad leaves on a t.d.y. I miss him. We always say that at least we have one another because he doesn't have anybody. At Christmas time we spend it with our best friend's mom. We always count down the days until our family's going to be complete again. By that time we've usually have forgotten about him leaving. He's been gone since November 5th and he's going to be gone until after New Year's. To pass the time, we call and write to each other. Sometimes we even color or draw him a picture or something like that. Whenever we look out the window at the newly painted blue truck we always start crying. Even my mom starts crying because she misses him so much too."
Katie VanAgtmael, Washington