As a parent, it’s inevitable that at some point you will be an empty nester! Some parents adjust well, others maybe not so much… I have a dear friend who has never quite gotten over her daughter moving across country years ago. Like anything in life, it takes a good attitude and some time to adjust.

And now, I’m on my way to being an empty nester! My eldest moved out this summer … she is spreading her wings and living with friends in a neighboring city. Since she was previously away at college for four years and returned home for a job, this shift was not that difficult. It was time!

My youngest, is heading off to college in a few short weeks. Since he will be home for breaks, I’m officially not an empty nester…not yet anyways! We have been especially close and it will be strange not to have him around. He is full of energy and injects laughter and fun into each day! I will miss his expertise around the house, but he too, must begin the next chapter in his life.

Over the years, there have been changes that have made this transition easier, from adolescence to the teenage years, each step bringing the children closer to adulthood and leaving the “nest”. Reflecting on parenthood, I realize there were many times, I was unable to do things because of events such as cheering at a soccer tournament or enjoying a dance competition or the hundreds of other little things parents have or need to do!

While, I am saddened at the change in my role as a mother, I’m also elated to have raised two wonderful adults. And now is my time to shine! To spend time with friends, attend festivals, concerts, take trips that appeal to ME and sometimes just enjoy solitude! It’s time to pursue my interests and develop skills … never to late to learn! And although there is one empty room, the best part of that is…finally having my own workspace and office! After years of juggling “stuff” and finding what space I could to store jewelry supplies and my collection of vintage goodies, I am now happily ensconced in my daughter’s old room and busy setting up my studio! Hooray!

It is a time of change, for sure, but we’ve made great memories together as a family and there will be more to come, just in a different way. When I drive away from campus, bittersweet tears will be falling from my eyes but I will look ahead to the future.

Written by Karen Soldwisch

Synergy Jewelry and Collectibles on Ruby Lane