I’m a new kid on the block

[Hummingbirdfeeder]

Hi All-

I’m new here and wanted to introduce myself. I’m struck with how lonely some people are feeling both before, and during, quarantine.

I live with my spouse, and temporarily two college children who are hopefully going back to college in the Fall. Sometimes I can feel lonely due to the need the “kids” understandably have to keep their distance and stay in their own space. They are sharing some things with my husband and me, but many topics are kept private. I know that’s developmentally where they should be as young adults, but it can still feel sad and like a loss. They’re really good kids and I’m not overly worried about them. Just feeling a little like an outsider at this point. I have a full time job and wonderful family including my husband.

So, I welcome connection with any of you who want to share and spread some humor at times, too.

Best!

[Agora1]

Hi Hummingbirdfeeder and Welcome to this Amazing forum.

Sounds like you are experiencing "empty nest syndrome". It

can happen even before the children leave home for college.

The emotional distance starts becoming more noticeable. Know

that it will be short lived. Once they are on their own, mom and dad

will always be just a phone call away. Sometimes we actually get closer

to our children once they do leave home.

It's not always about them calling when they need money although

they will happen. But it's about missing mom's cooking, the happy days

spent as a family and more so the security they had living at home.

You sound like you have a beautiful family. Embrace that. Never let go

of that feeling. You have many years ahead of you in seeing their dreams

fulfilled. You are blessed. xx

[Anonymous798]

Hi, welcome to the community. It’s so nice to meet you. You seem like a very kind and caring person and your family is lucky to have you. Hopefully your kids will visit and call you if you miss them. Watching children grow up can be very hard. What you are going through and feeling is understandable. Although I’ve never had kids I can relate to raising orphaned baby animals and releasing them once they are adults. But I believe that once your children leave for college it may be easier to cope with once you are used to their absence. I really hope things get better for you. Have an amazing day.