I’m not really sure what I expected in becoming an “empty nester”, but learning flexibility was not it.
At the beginning of this year, the house became awfully quiet as we were down to just one child living at home. It was too quiet, I admit, but I was adjusting. I was learning how to shop and cook for just three in the household. I was getting familiar with the new schedule that was a little more freeing.
Well, all that was interrupted by the phone call. I’m sure you know what phone call that was, “Mom, can I move back home?” (For the rest of the story . . . you just have to keep up with me over at my new column Wings, Worries, and Worms at Exemplify Online.)
Let me just say, the past six months have been a journey. I’m learning that in becoming an empty nester you must exercise great flexibility. Did I say GREAT FLEXIBILITY? Learning to be flexible is all so worth it when you get a note that says, “I’m so blessed that I have wonderful parents that will take me back home and shelter me.”
To get a bird’s eye view and account of me becoming an Empty Nester, check out my new column “Wings, Worries, and Worms” in the Exemplify Online Magazine. The beginning column is just out — go HERE.
I’d love your feedback. I’d love your stories, encouragement, comments!
It’s amazing I’m becoming an empty nester — it definitely is all about Wings, Worries, and Worms!
I don't have kids so I can only relate to your situation through my mum. Her life really began once us kids moved out. She has achieved so much and gets involved in so many things. But her house is always open to us.
Alene, did you mean to encourage me so richly today??? *grin*
I struggle significantly with my 12-year-old son. I often wonder how things are going to turn out with him. Try, try, try so hard not to fret and worry about it, rather to trust the One who loves my son even more than I do. But I fear sometimes that when he grows up and moves out, he'll never want to look back.
Something about your words here – especially the note you received – it just gives me hope today. And I thank you.
Hello sister! I enjoyed your article in Exemplify. So I came for a visit.
I am on the brink of empty nest also…my baby goes to college the end of Aug. My oldest was married last September and is expecting in October.
Though my son will be only an hour away, I know I will be feeling it. Thankfully God gets us ready in their gradual independence their senior year. But being the mama to a high schooler is over and I will grieve that for sure!
Icing on the cake is my husband has begun working out of town during the week building wind turbines, so just rented himself a house for the weekdays. It will be nice having the column to relate to look forward to!
Blessings on your writing! And your nest! ;)
~Kathy
my "babies" are 7 and 10 and the time is flying by…I know I will be where you are in no time! Thank you for sharing your wisdom here…I look forward to reading more! :)