I don’t do well with change. As a single mother, I’m used to being in charge. I’m used to knowing what is going on and where my daughter is at all times. Now she is married and it’s really starting to affect me.
It’s a lot harder than I imagined to go from being the one who planned everything to the one who finds out about things after they happen.
I find myself at a loss. I don’t know what to do with myself or my time. I don’t seem to have any motivation to do much of anything.
I guess the bright side of this is that I realize it’s becoming a problem for me. I see that I’m becoming depressed and it’s time to do something about it.
I need to get motivated again. For other single moms who may become empty nesters soon, my best advice would be to have a plan.
Make sure you have things that you are engaged in that make you happy. Surround yourself with people. It’s hard to go from constant company to being the only person in your house for days at a time.
Now that Hailey has moved out there are days on end when I don’t speak to anyone after work, it’s lonely, and it’s very different.
I miss having her home. I miss the noise and mess associated with a teenage girl and her friends. I miss being needed, even if it’s only for a ride to the mall.
At the same time, there are days when I’m grateful for the quiet and a house that I don’t have to spend hours to clean. Mostly though, I miss it. I miss being a full time mom. I miss hugs every day and teenage attitude when she doesn’t get her way.
I love watching her build a life, I just never thought I would be on the outside looking in. That’s all part of growing up, but I’m still not ready for it.