I can finally say this without feeling guilty–I like being an empty-nester. Strike that. I LOVE it! As many of you know, I had my oldest son when I was eighteen, so I’ve been a mother my entire adult life. I’ve had my son or daughter under my roof for about twenty-eight years, and while I would never change my motherhood or circumstances, living out the second half of my life as a divorced mom of two adult children is now my focus. It feels good to be able to concentrate fully on the things that I’d like to accomplish.
It has been almost two years since my daughter left for college, but I can say that I’ve finally gotten the hang of the empty-nester lifestyle and all that comes along with it. I’ve compiled a list of 20 Things I Enjoy Now That I’m an Empty Nester, and if you feel inclined, follow along with me and let me know if you also see some items on my list that we have in common.
Oh, and if you aren’t quite living the empty nest experience just yet, this list can be something to look forward to.
Winging it
My days were scheduled for years according to my son or daughter’s needs and activities. Sundays, I trekked downtown with my preschool daughter in tow to take my son to voice lessons; Saturdays were filled with everything from playdates to drop-offs and pick-ups to and from the mall, early morning shuttles to the school for marching band practice, the list goes on and on. Now, I can freestyle my schedule if I want. Plan everything, wing it, plan nothing, and go with the flow. I am getting so used to this.
Privacy
I no longer close my bedroom door when I am on a personal phone call or have a guest. I have the entire house to myself, and what a feeling that is.
Eat what I want
My kids were picky eaters—and still are. For meals, it’s all about what I want. Whether I am whipping up something for myself, ordering Uber Eats, or eating out, it’s my choice. There will be no more debates or deciding on meals everyone will like.
Low food bills
Speaking of food, my food costs are decreasing while food prices are increasing. Shopping for one is proving to be great for my wallet, but cooking for one is something I am still trying to master.
In the buff
Walking around upstairs nude? I couldn’t do that before, but now, I live the buff life.
Quiet on the set
Ah, peace and quiet. I don’t have to fuss about my son’s music being too loud, and I no longer have to ask my daughter to keep the volume down when her friends are visiting. My home is now a peaceful sanctuary of quietness when I want it.
Sleep in
Unless I am getting up for work or an early morning flight, I can sleep in and bask in the wonderfulness of my bed. It is what dreams are made of.
Plans are mine
As mentioned in ‘Winging It,’ the only plans I have on my calendar are those I create for myself.
Nice and neat
I’ve become a neat freak in my “golden” age, and I love that for me. Things are always where they are supposed to be, and that is refreshing, to say the least.
No borrowing needed
My daughter tends to “borrow” my items and forget to put them back. I still have to deal with this over summer break, but other than that, my things stay put.
Company
I feel so adult, having someone over when I want without explanation.
Feeling myself
Singing “What a Feeling” at the top of my lungs while dancing in the upstairs hallway brings me such joy. Words cannot explain the freedom I feel during this empty nest experience.
Turn it up
My music at total volume while cleaning is peak joy for me.
Peaceful
Gratitude for where I am now and so much peace comes with that.
GNI
Girls Night In anytime I want? YES!
Freedom and flexibility
Breakfast for dinner? No dinner at all? A late-night walk around the neighborhood? Take a road trip or book a flight spontaneously? Renting a tiny house for the weekend? I can do that at a moment’s notice.
Sunday mornings
Sunday mornings are everything to me. I enjoy them now much more than ever because they are my time to reflect on what I’ve done during the week and reimagine my plans for the future. It’s my favorite part of my week.
Silence
Can you hear it? That’s the sound of nothing—a sound I covet and hold dear.
Finally, I have my own space
I have never had my own space as an adult until now. This is the best part of being an empty-nester.
The skin I’m in and where I am in my life has been a journey worth taking. I would do it all again the same way, with no regrets. My kids are thriving and creating their own lives, and so am I. The gift of having this time is one that I don’t take for granted, and I look forward to discovering even more about myself as I embark on my latest journey.
I am thankful to be an empty-nester. I earned this.
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