By Editor Kym Byrnes
A few years back, my dad moved in with me for about six months. He was newly retired, between houses, and wrapping up a school year before heading off to Philadelphia to start the next chapter of his life with his high school sweetheart, who had recently become his wife. He didn’t need caregiving or financial support — just a place to crash while life shifted around him.
Still, having three generations under one roof gave me a small taste of what people in the “sandwich generation” experience. If you’re unfamiliar, that’s the name for adults who are raising their own children while also caring for aging parents. It’s a juggling act that requires patience, humor, and a generous supply of coffee. During those months, my middle schoolers got to see more of their grandfather than just the festive holiday version. This was Granddad Unplugged — offering opinions on screen time, enforcing chores, and wondering aloud why no one wakes up with a weekend to-do list anymore. He had thoughts. I had thoughts. We mostly kept them to ourselves.
But in between the minor tensions and mismatched routines, there was bonding – real, meaningful, this-is-what-family-is bonding. Of course, it wasn’t all sweet moments and life lessons. There were plenty of “Did he really bring home more cupcakes and doughnuts again?” evenings and the occasional flashback to my teen years, complete with internal debates about whether he was judging me for leaving laundry in the washer overnight.
That short window gave me a deeper appreciation for people who are doing this long-term — those caring for aging parents who need real assistance, while still managing homework, sports schedules, and snack negotiations with their kids. It’s a lot. And it deserves more attention, more support, and definitely more grace.
In the August/September 2025 issue of Carroll Magazine, you’ll find stories that explore aging, caregiving, and the shifting dynamics of families. You’ll also find hope. Because even though this chapter of life can be messy and exhausting, it can also be surprisingly beautiful.
Here’s to everyone out there doing their best in the middle of it all —sandwiched between generations, to-do lists, and unexpected moments of joy. May you find laughter when things get chaotic, peace when things are quiet, and the occasional reminder that you’re not alone. And if you’ve got a good “sandwich generation” story (or just want to vent about buying diapers for your toddler and your mom), I’d love to hear it.
Have feedback? Email your ideas to: readerswrite@carrollmagazine.com
