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Empty Nest
GOT THOSE EMPTY NEST BLUES?
The last of the kids have all left home and now you're
wondering, "What do I do now"?
Sometimes it takes a while to come to the realization
that you are now on your own. You've been helping to
get them raised and preparing them to go out into the
world on their own and suddenly that time has come and
gone (and so are they!). You look around only to
wonder, what now?
The time seemed so far off, that you just weren't
prepared when it finally arrived.
So, now it's time to start thinking about all those
things you told yourself you would do, "If only I had
time, I'd love to ..."
When you stop to think about it, you've really come to
a good time in your life. The kids are grown, have
lives of their own, you're now free to do all "Those
things you kept telling yourself you'd do." Thing is;
now you have to remember just what they were!
Well, this little article is just to get you to
thinking!
It's never to late to start something new either. I had
an Aunt that started painting when she was in her 50's.
Wasn't even aware that she could paint that well!
There's always school. Yes, school. There are all kinds
of courses you could take on a lot of different
subjects. Think of any that might be of interest to
you? Maybe there's a degree of some sort that you'd
like to go for? I've heard of some who went for their
nursing degree in their late 30's early 40's!
Have any hobbies that you put aside because you didn't
have enough time to really devote to them? If not, then
start some new ones! Just think of some new things that
you would like to learn how to do, then go sign up for
some classes! Might even make some new friends in the
process.
There's also volunteer work. Places like hospitals,
nursing homes the Salvation Army. They are always
looking for someone to help out. Lots of other similar
places too. Can be a really rewarding feeling knowing
that you are really needed.
What about schools? Like volunteering to help tutor
some students? Could be elementary, middle or high
school. I'm sure that would be really appreciated and
helpful to the students also. Or, if not volunteering,
see if there are any openings for teachers aides in any
of the schools in your area.
Of course there's always some sort of sports activity
you can take up. Like tennis? Golf? Bowling? Get some
of your friends and join a league. If they don't want
to, then do it by yourself. There again, you always
have room for new friends in your life! (Not to mention
you can keep active and get exercise at the same time)
Ok, now, for those of you who are married (or have a
significant other), well, need I say more? Let's get
that romance back! Start taking some weekends together.
Go out to dinner or the movies. Take a cruise! (They
are really nice and can be very romantic) This time can
be almost like getting to know each other all over
again! Make it fun and interesting. You sometimes get
so wrapped up in the kids life that you forget you have
one of your own. Just use your imagination. Remember,
you're still young, enjoy life!
I know, some of you out there are saying, "But I'm
single (or not) and have to work for a living!" Well,
if you haven't been real happy with the job you have
now, maybe this is a good time to start looking for a
new career? Maybe start your own business? If you are
happy with your present job; are there some courses
that you can take that might help to get a promotion or
to just make things easier for you? You can still find
some new things to do just for yourself, even if it's
just getting out more with your friends.
Remember, the kids are through with school, all grown
up and on their own. Time to start looking around and
see just what you want to do with you life now. Single
or married, there's lots out there for you, just put
your thinking cap on!
No sitting around feeling sorry for yourself because
you're feeling "deserted" or not "needed". Well, it's
ok for a little while, but not for long! Once you get
use to your new found independence, well, watch out!
Besides, they always know they can come visit any time
they want. (and probably will quite often!)
Hope you enjoyed this little article and got something
from it.
Jeanine Herrin
http://www.emptynestmoms.com
Stop by for a visit anytime!
jeanine@emptynestmoms.com
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