I imagine this stage of parenthood is a little bittersweet. Yes, empty nest may soon be a reality, but you and Husband can take pride in how you've raised your kids. You'll be sending them out into the world with a solid foundation and the skills and mindset to lead their best lives. you've done well, mama molly. 

I loved reading this. Thank you very much. 

A coworker of mine is going through the stage that will come after this. Her kids have left for college, and she spent a few hard months trying to find "new purpose" in her home life.

Her husband is a smart man. He purchased a crazy improved sewing machine, because Tammy loves quilting and sewing. Last week was the first time I heard her excited for her upcoming weekend in a while. She had a quilting project to work on, and her excitement made a number of us who had watched her mourn her empty nest smile.

For her, she had to remember herself. To pick up the things she may have put down to prioritize her kids. Others volunteer, or take up new hobbies to pass the time.

But, these parents are still hugely important to their kids, and that will never change.

As a nearly father to my neurotic nephew, I can tell you, your job will not end...ever. You are always needed. But maybe on hangouts or the phone rather than in person. 

8 hours ago, MacGreg said:

I imagine this stage of parenthood is a little bittersweet. Yes, empty nest may soon be a reality, but you and Husband can take pride in how you've raised your kids. You'll be sending them out into the world with a solid foundation and the skills and mindset to lead their best lives. you've done well, mama molly. 

it is bittersweet Sir
they've just become really interesting, lol!  i think, like all parents, we just hoped they'd be able to think for themselves, find someone to love, and a career that's fulfilling, i think we did OK.
thank You for Your kind words

8 hours ago, Parker Owens said:

I loved reading this. Thank you very much. 

thank you Parker
 

7 hours ago, Wayne Gray said:

A coworker of mine is going through the stage that will come after this. Her kids have left for college, and she spent a few hard months trying to find "new purpose" in her home life.

Her husband is a smart man. He purchased a crazy improved sewing machine, because Tammy loves quilting and sewing. Last week was the first time I heard her excited for her upcoming weekend in a while. She had a quilting project to work on, and her excitement made a number of us who had watched her mourn her empty nest smile.

For her, she had to remember herself. To pick up the things she may have put down to prioritize her kids. Others volunteer, or take up new hobbies to pass the time.

But, these parents are still hugely important to their kids, and that will never change.

thanks Wayne
there are several things that i used to do, that there just hasn't been room, or time for that it will be good to explore again

3 hours ago, MichaelS36 said:

As a nearly father to my neurotic nephew, I can tell you, your job will not end...ever. You are always needed. But maybe on hangouts or the phone rather than in person. 

thank You Michael Sir
i hope that our kids know, like Your "neurotic nephew," that they can call us anytime, about anything
that just because they don't live with us, we'll still be there

you have a wonderful family ... great kids.

9 minutes ago, Mikiesboy said:

you have a wonderful family ... great kids.

thank you, tim 
i think they're pretty special