What To Do When the Nest Empties

Many of you may be like our oldest daughter who is starting a new chapter of her life. Her oldest child has left the nest and gone out into the world for his first job.

To her and all of you moms out there who are feeling that empty nest now, I know the emotions you're going through.

Even if you're sending your little one to kindergarten or the final year of high school instead of off to make a way in the world,  there's a certain mixture of relief and pain as you get ready for this new chapter of your life.

What To Do Now

All those things you've put off over the years because you didn't have enough time. Here's a short list that might interest you.

1. Redecorate. Yep, now is the time to get that new furniture, paint away the fingerprint-stained walls, and get things you don't have to worry about being ruined by unthinking kids.

2. Take up a hobby. Now is the time to learn an art or craft or start a collection. In fact, set up a little hobby corner just for you.

3. Focus on your health and fitness. Now is the time to get strong and healthy. Embark on a fitness program so you'll have the energy to tackle those mountains of dirty clothes that your college kid will bring home to dear old Mom. Seriously, instead of sitting around and feeling blue, move your body. It will raise your endorphin level and make you the cheerful happy Mom a kid wants to come home to visit.

4. Take a class. Broaden your mind and keep those brain cells active. Work on another degree. Learn a new skill. Community colleges a abound. Even if you're in a small town or rural setting, online courses in everything are offered.

5. Set aside time to read. Catch up on your favorite genre or read in a new one. Get an ereader device or a cell phone app. You can grab a library full of low-cost and even free ebooks in every genre and nonfiction category there is. Sign up for my free subscription newsletter. I offer a free and/or bargain ebook every month.

6. Be more romantic to your partner. There are no kids to hamper or inhibit your passion. Remember what it was like to be flirty and romantic.

7. Most of all, accept this new phase in your life and be happy. Your children learn how to handle life changes by observing you so be a good role model.

Takeaway Truth

Brainstorm some ideas now, choose one, and take action.