Dear Annie:

As a wife, mother of three, and full-time program manager overseeing a crisis unit, I juggle many responsibilities. Despite my busy schedule, I’m the one who has to make contact with my husband’s side of the family. If I didn’t, we’d probably never see them. Maintaining family ties is important to me and I’m happy to make the effort, but I consider it a shared responsibility.

In today’s fast-paced world, I understand that communication can be difficult. Some people are naturally good at staying in touch, while others think about reaching out but can forget everything that’s going on. But when it comes to family, I believe no one should shoulder the burden alone; communication is two-way and phones work both ways.

So, to grandparents who have a similar problem: I urge you to pick up the phone and make a plan if you want to connect. We can’t always tell when you want to visit or talk, and none of us can read minds. Shouldn’t the effort to stay connected be reciprocal and made as a family? — It’s a two-way street

Dear two-way street:

Thank you for your thoughtful letter. Many readers have shared similar suggestions about the importance of grandparents taking the initiative to make plans with their family. I’m sharing your letter here to encourage grandparents to reach out and say they want to reunite.

“How can I forgive my cheating partner? » is out now! Annie Lane’s second anthology – featuring her favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation – is available in paperback and e-book form. Visit for more information. Send your questions to Annie Lane at [email protected].

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