Dear Carolyn,

My parents, in their mid-60s, are divorcing due to financial disputes related to retirement. The separation has been tense. My stepdad is planning a quiet retirement near family by a river, whereas my mom wants to relocate to a bigger city to maintain an active social life and continue working. Although I don’t live close to either of them, I want my son to have a relationship with both grandparents.

However, my mom is increasingly insistent that I cover her travel expenses to visit us. This requirement is straining our family finances. I’m not sure how to manage this situation without causing further distress to her during this already difficult time.

It is important for my son to know his grandparents, but I am struggling to balance this with our own financial limitations. Any advice on how to navigate this complex family dynamic would be helpful.