School is starting, kid's in 3rd year at college, and man, I miss him.

[Anonymous]

Just try to remember that was the goal of parenting-to raise them to not need you. I am very sad too, just dropped off my youngest.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I agree.

Mine are graduated from college and a college sophomore. But every September, especially when I see all the first day photos on social media, I get a little melancholy.

Then I remind myself I don't have to go to PTA meetings or drive to sports practices or argue about curfews and that helps me feel better!

My oldest daughter graduated from UVA last year and she lives with several of her roomates just a few minutes from us. She always drops by to visit us and pickup dinner from mom. She always makes time to play golf with me every Friday afternoon.

My son recently graduated from UCLA this past summer and he is also living about 10 minutes from us. He also stops by the house everyday after work to pickup dinner from mom. He always makes time to play golf with me every Saturday.

My youngest is a college junior at GMU and he is staying with us while attending school. He also plays golf with us on Saturday.

I am so blessed.

Wait. You are making dinner for your adult children every day?!

[Anonymous]

I clicked my heels when my two left for school last week! I love having the house to myself.

[Anonymous]

Mine are both in grad school and have been officially out of the nest for years. I still miss them like crazy. I can't wait until grandchildren so I can go visit and spend lots of time with them!

[Anonymous]

NP here. I know it is natural for kids to make their own way. And I can get enjoyment from their excitement about launching (new apartments, first dates, etc).

BUT, I can feel those things and still miss having little ones. I enjoyed that phase of my life and it has ended. Grief is not bad, it is part of life. OP, it is good for you to acknowledge it and be kind to yourself while you adjust.

My kid is a little older than yours (just finished college). Half in and half out of the house (while seeking a job). What makes that hard is that EVERY comment or suggestion is perceived as nagging or criticism. Not the advice of a loving parent, who has more life experience. I always stress that decisions are hers to make, but it seems like everything out of my mouth irritates her. I don't get the sweet fun young women she shows others. That saddens me.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:I agree.

Mine are graduated from college and a college sophomore. But every September, especially when I see all the first day photos on social media, I get a little melancholy.

Then I remind myself I don't have to go to PTA meetings or drive to sports practices or argue about curfews and that helps me feel better!

Love this!

I have to get better about this.

I think I am romanticizing the whole experience of them needing us constantly.