Empty Nest

I have loved every stage of my children growing up. My daughter is now 26, married and on her own with her husband. My son is 22, and has moved out with a friend. I knew that my daughter was going to get married and move out so I was prepared and although it was hard, I was still ok. I missed having her here at night when we used to have our heart to heart talks but I wanted her to have a life of her own and be happy. She left in August and they bought a house about 5 minutes from me. I see them often and my daughter and I talk every day, usually several times. My son was a different story. He left at the beginning of January without giving me any preparation time to adjust. He didn't even tell me he was moving until he was gone. It was very hard for me. I feel as though my husband and I were pushed into the empty nest too quickly. We at least have each other to lean on but it is still hard. I don't know why but it is at its worst when I go to the grocery store. I think that my grocery shopping was always revolving around my son because I have a very hard time buying for the two of us. At first it seemed that I was still buying for him and would send most of it home with him. I am getting better now and I am mostly just not doing much shopping. I guess I am wierd but I am having a rough transition. It is nice to spend time with my husband and we have seemed to be able to do more around the house together lately. Maybe it will bring us closer, who knows. I know that I miss my kids and if you have little ones, hug them and know that all that control that you have in their lives right now will end before you know it. I really miss being so important in their lives.

I have heard people talk about the empty nest as a wonderful time but for me, it has been very hard and heartbreaking at times. I am looking forward to the day that I can be more comfortable with it.