I heard recently, on a FamilyLife.Com radio program, that once kids get married and leave the nest, parents become VERY insignificant. Which I understand completely. When I was in my early 30's, Mom and Dad were not uppermost in my mindset. Although my situation was that Mom died when I was 18 and it was only Dad. AND a step mother of my own.

BUT, with a divorce, ONE parent, usually the Dad, gets even more insignificant. Granted, they do talk to him and we have spent time at his Daughter's house, but she is very close to her nearby in-laws and we live 5 hours away. Her Mom is a plane ride away. So, it's not that convenient for either party to just stop in and visit.

I just know it bothers him that they don't, on their own, call to say "we're coming over!"

His son, who lives way north of here in another state, has not seen his Dad in six years. Yes, they talk on the phone, but I just don't get it.

Probably because I am not a Mom, longed to be one, if not by biology by marriage, and I still don't have that!

Oh well...you're right. Encouraging our spouses is the only way to go! I said to DH that is must really break his heart that his kids won't want to come here. He just shrugged.

I feel so badly for him. But do WE have the right to say something to his kids?? I do tell his son his Dad misses him. But, I just have to shut my mouth. I don't know ALL the family dynamics before me.