"Will you be home for my birthday?"

What's the worst thing about being on the road long-term? It's a no-brainer for most nomads - being away from the Grandkids, of course! Unfortunately, though, it's a price you simply have to pay for seeing this magnificent country and meeting its magnificent people.

Jock and Lynn Kingston from Sydney - one of the couples highlighted in our People Features section - have found it doesn't get any easier with time. The couple has been travelling for three years now and the sound of her grandchildren's voices on the phone still brings a tear to Lynn's eye. The Kingstons are fortunate enough to be able to afford regular visits home.

"That was one of the deals we made when we went on the road," says Jock. "Lynn flies back to see the grandchildren every couple of months from wherever we happen to be. I normally stay put and keep an eye on the Winnebago ... and get a bit of fishing done!"

For those who cannot get home so regularly or so easily, there is no magic cure for the pain of separation. It is worse on birthdays, of course, and it is important to be around friends who understand how you are feeling on those days. Make sure you are near a phone, as well, or if you are out in the bush that you are able to get mobile phone coverage. If you can't be there, you can at least speak to your loved ones on their big day. Even a new bike or a new cricket set can't beat talking Grandma and Grandad.

Emails help ease the pain, as well, of course. If your grandchildren are old enough to be on the computer, don't be shy about communicating with them directly via email - you don't always have to write through your son or daughter. It can help you forge a special bond. And then, there is still the post. Letters or postcards from their 'crazy, travelling grandparents' are often collected and treasured by the recipients. And it might even encourage them to send you some more pictures, photographs and letters - and you know how much those are appreciated!

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