We were finally empty nesters. Then we got custody of our granddaughter and had to go back to work to raise her.

Connie and Michael Frost are raising their teenage granddaughter, Kinsley, full-time in Georgia. Michael, 67, and Connie, 63, obtained permanent custody of Kinsley when she was 2 years old. The couple, who have both been married previously and are now in their second marriage, had retired two years ago but have since returned to work to financially support Kinsley's upbringing. They have tried to provide Kinsley with a stable home and a strong education.

Michael explained that Kinsley's mother had moved around a lot and had a history of being hospitalized due to liver disease. After several liver transplants, she improved and has her own place now. Kinsley's biological mother is raising another child. The couple secured temporary custody of Kinsley, which was later converted to permanent custody.

Connie mentioned that initially, the adjustment was difficult, especially as Kinsley couldn't sleep alone and required constant vigilance. They made Kinsley a special bed and playhouse to help her feel more at home.

Despite the challenges, Connie added that raising Kinsley has been a "complete bliss." The couple noted that they had expected differences between raising their own children and raising Kinsley, but they now have friends in similar situations. They also decided to send Kinsley to a private school to ensure her education was strong.

Connie shared that while there have been some challenges, such as sharing attention with other grandchildren, and financial strains due to medical expenses, they are trying to maintain a balance. They are homeschooling Kinsley this year to allow for more travel and family time.