How We Spend 7 Months a Year Near Grandkids in Texas—and Keep 5 in Florida
Long visits to help family
Cherry, a clinical psychologist from Tampa, and her husband, Glenn, began traveling to Houston to help their son, Jamal, and daughter-in-law, Sierra, care for their baby. The couple had settled about 1,000 miles away.
Their stays ran from a month to six weeks. They stayed with the family or rented Airbnbs, while making frequent trips between the two cities. Cherry said she enjoyed being hands-on, especially because Jamal and Sierra work hard in finance and forensic psychology.
Balancing two homes
Back in Florida, Cherry and Glenn had a full life in their gated suburban community, including meaningful friendships. After their grandson was born two years ago, they continued making lengthy visits to help care for him and his sister.
Jamal and Sierra later asked how the family felt when Cherry and Glenn were away and whether they would consider moving closer. The couple wanted to spend time with their grandchildren, but also valued their life in Tampa and did not want to give up their home there.
A middle ground in Houston
Cherry and Glenn began looking at places in Houston. They also wanted to avoid taking on Texas taxes and insurance while keeping their Florida home. The arrangement lets them stay for as long or as briefly as they choose.
Their Houston apartment is 1,600 square feet and includes access to two swimming pools, playrooms, and a basketball court. Cherry said the setup gives them quality time with the grandchildren, including when their parents go on dates or spend a weekend away.
Keeping their Florida ties
Cherry said she and Glenn have not lost their identity as Nana and Papa. They regularly fly back to Florida to spend time with longtime friends, and neighbors watch their house while they are away.
The couple’s split between the two states allows them to be involved in family life while maintaining their home and social connections in Tampa. Cherry said knowing neighbors keep an eye on the house is reassuring.
Key points
- Valerie Cherry and her husband travel between Tampa and Houston to spend time with their grandchildren.
- They began with visits lasting a month to six weeks before looking for a place in Houston.
- They kept their Tampa home because they valued their Florida life and wanted to avoid Texas taxes and insurance.
- Their Houston apartment offers shared amenities, and they continue flying back to see longtime friends.