Guzzy has spread her wings and flown the parental coop; seeking the age-appropriate shelter of a somewhat rundown 2-bedroom apartment with her BFF and BFF’s yippy puppy. She has taken the majority of her belongings and furniture with her; leaving a void in a portion of our home, as well as within our hearts.
I still see her about once a week, or we talk on the phone… but, of course, it is not the same: which is probably the whole point of moving out. She is (becoming) her own woman.
It took me 36 years to become an empty nester, and am adjusting to life without a minor under our roof.
We no longer need to consider Guzzy’s schedule, including meals, in our day-to-day plans. This has freed me up to play more tennis in the evenings: up to 3-4 times a week. I have also started working-out with a trainer, in a small group, 3 times a week.
So far, the empty nest has been great for my health and fitness! It’s also been good on the pocketbook; for now Guzzy is financially independent, and will remain so unless and until she chooses to go to college.
Compared to the days of raising small children, I now have occasional stretches of quiet time without significant demands.
I certainly intend to expend my slightly expanded available time, money and energy wisely. We will need to be strong to face the next Presidency with courage, sanity, assertiveness and humor. Ironically, it may just be us empty nesters: the grandmas and grandpas, that have the right stuff for what lies ahead.