 Welcome to the newsletter from Distance Families DISTANCE FAMILIES NEWSFebruary is the month of Valentine’s Day — a time when love takes centre stage. For Distance Families, however, love isn’t always expressed with flowers or chocolates. More often, it’s found in remembered dates, thoughtful check-ins, and small acts of care that bridge generations and geography. One helpful way to think about this is through The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman. The key message is simple but powerful: don’t love people the way you like to be loved — show them love in the way they feel it most.
Acts of Service at a distance might mean being punctual for calls, remembering important dates, setting up a special backdrop for a birthday video call, or making things easier for elderly parents through practical support. Thought, remembering, and follow-through all count. Gifts love-language people treasure cards, photos, and small mementoes. Distance doesn’t have to be a barrier here — simply never forgetting a birthday, anniversary, or special day can mean everything. Quality Time is one of the easiest love languages to offer from afar. Put everything else aside and give your full attention. A focused 15-minute conversation is often far more meaningful than a long, distracted one. Physical Touch is the hardest at a distance — a hug through a screen isn’t possible. But naming the wish matters. Saying, “I wish I could give you a hug,” and adding hugs and kisses to messages helps acknowledge what’s missing. Words of Affirmation travel well across distance. Speak kindly, encourage often, leave voice messages that can be replayed, and choose words carefully — especially with those who carry them close to heart. Understanding the love languages of your Distance Family doesn’t happen overnight, particularly across generations. But as you notice patterns and preferences, loving each other becomes easier, warmer, and more intentional. And that, perhaps, is a very good Valentine’s message for all generations BOOK SERIES NEWS
ON THE HOME FRONTBetween Christmas and New Year, we embarked on an unforgettable expedition cruise to Stewart Island and Fiordland, at the very bottom of New Zealand’s South Island. We were blissfully off-grid for several days and enjoyed what may have been the best weather anywhere in the country — calm seas, no rain, and mild temperatures. Each day brought twice-daily zodiac boat adventures, allowing us to get up close to wildlife, explore pristine landscapes, and learn more about the region’s rich history, unique fauna, and remarkable ecology. One highlight was a helicopter excursion with a landing on Mt Pender — which turned into more of an adventure than expected. We spent far longer on the mountain than planned after the pilot noticed a faulty instrument gauge and returned to base in Te Anau. A second pilot and helicopter came to our rescue, adding an unexpected (and memorable) twist to the day. With experts on board and a wonderful group of fellow travellers, it was a true expedition in every sense — and an experience we won’t forget. When it’s cold in the Northern Hemisphere and warmer in the south, we find ourselves in the arrivals hall at the airport. Right now, we’re hosting my stepson from the U.K. and my daughter from the U.S. — just the two of them on different itineraries with no children. It’s a good reminder that it never pays to have fixed ideas about how visits should unfold. One-on-one time, without little ones (or even big ones), is also precious and memorable. Take care until next time
Helen Ellis *** Not registered to receive this monthly newsletter? You may register on the right of this page *** *** Please forward this newsletter to others who may enjoy it. Thank you! ***
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