Empty Nest is Not So Empty

[Suzy Stauffer]

Last night 5 mom's were on their way to see a Collective Soul concert. YES, moms can still rock! Most of these moms were about to experience the empty nest as kids go off to college. All of them have prepared themselves by slowly creating a life beyond the kids. Each found a hobby or career that has them excited and ready for the next stage of life----The Empty Nest. But, their Nest will NOT be empty! But, full of fun, growth and new opportunity for discovery. My daughter was also going to her first concert last night---NOT with me. She choose to take a friend instead of her mom to the American Idol concert .

Proudly, she steps into an exciting phase of her life--Independence. It is a fact of life---as our kids grow they grow beyond the need of having their mom there 24/7. Matter of fact it is what we hope for but often find it hard to accept. So, here I was having fun in a car--laughing, playing the music and smiling because as she grows I grow too. Moms you need to create a life outside of your kids--because one day they will have their own and you will have time to turn up the radio, roll down the windows and smile that your job was well down---and everyone is happy moving beyond the empty nest to a very exciting and fulfilling journey.

[Suzy Stauffer]

WOW----You have done a great job with your kids! I know you have so many exciting opportunities and really have created a lot of passion in your life for this next phase--- You will be far from empty---it probaly will get fuller and as fulfilling too.

[Lisa Stecher-Dort]

Suzy--how timely.

My nest will be empty in a week and as happy as I am for my daughter in the next phase of her life it is still hard once they leave. I have created an awesome life outside of my kids with a great career and an even better circle of influence both professionally and personally. I am proud of the job I have done with both of my kids. They are both very loving and compassionate kids who are embarking on their independent journey in life to reach the goals they have set forth. The advise you set forth above is very compelling and important for moms to remember. It gives me a new perspective as I embark on the final week of our prepartion of my daughters next chapter of her life.