To feel so, so sad to have a nearly empty nest

[nortonhouse]

My son went off to uni at the start of last year, and I still haven't gotten over it. I cry (but hide it!) when he comes home and then again every time he leaves. Our daughter will likewise leave for uni year after next. I am dreading it. My husband and I have a solid (30+ year) marriage, I am involved in plenty of activities and charities (although not currently working for pay), I have loads of friends and plenty to keep me busy. Yet I can't get over this sadness and the feeling that our time with the children at home flies by far too quickly. Any advice from those of you who have gone through this or who are in the same place?

Just sent my 22 year old back to London today. Don't know when she will next be home as she is doing performing arts and this is the year to get agents and jobs. Son planning his summer placements and about to go back to uni in 2 weeks. First year we haven't been able to plan a holiday all together. Between sept 2011 and sept 2013 my daughter left home, my husband died and my son left home. House very empty now.

hey MusicalTheatre, I'm sorry you lost your husband. Your house must be very quiet indeed, and it is hard when the kids start talking about their plans which now don't include us! Mine are going to uni/drama school next year, and I can weep endlessly if I let myself feel the time that has gone passed, and the imminent end of my family life. It hurts.

I'm trying to wean myself off them a little - and have a list of things to do this year other than working, whcih definitely includes making new friends and getting out more. I've spent 18 years approx, either at work or at home with the kids, so the onus is on me now to have an exciting future to look forward to.

What are your plans for yourself?

My mum had this, although she was not so upset. She got a dog! Company, clatter in the house etc

Of course you miss your son but at the same time you should be delerious that he has the confidence to make his own way in the world, but I get it still hurts when they do. I guess.