After almost 20 years of seeing my child every day, my son moved out.
There are periods I don’t see or speak to him at all.
This separation has brought an unexpected sense of loss.
I observe my emotions, and the physical sensations that arise with them, without being overwhelmed.
Don’t resist your feelings.
Be honest with those around you about how you’re feeling.
I talk to my husband and my friends with similarly aged children.
It’s reassuring to know that I’m not alone in feeling this way.
Look for the positives.
Even our bills have reduced, especially our water bill.
There is less cleaning and tidying to do, and I am not ending each day completely depleted.
While I do miss my child not being around the house, having these small positives does help.
Start a new hobby.
I just bought an acoustic guitar.
I have always wanted to learn but never felt I had the time.
I want to rediscover the things I used to love to do, as well as findnew hobbiesand interests.
I have poured my energy into raising a child and lost myself somewhere in the process.
I now want to rediscover who I was before I was someone’s mom.
Celebrate your success.
I am confident they have the skills they need to thrive, and that’s no small feat.
Communicate and plan.
With Skype, mobile phones, and social networking, staying in touch has never been easier.
We also plan to get together when we can.
When I’m not working, I can drive over and meet him on his lunch hour.
Be happy.
Your attitude is a choice.
I choose to be excited about how my life will continue to develop and grow!
