Overwhelming sadness about children growing up

[Hayleypop]

I'm not sure how to explain this and I am probably going to sound like a absolute idiot to some, as I know people will say I should be grateful to have kids that get to grow up as there are people who don't get the chance, but I'm really struggling... my daughter is 14 next month and my son is 10 and the reality is hitting me that they just dont need me as much anymore, I miss the snuggles and the make believe on birthdays and Christmas and I miss them wanting to spend time with me. I just well up constantly and I don't know if i am being ridiculous or i am actually feeling depressed? But every time I look at old photos I burst into tears. Obviously I don't let them know I'm feeling like this, god they are only doing what is the normal progress of life but I honestly dont know how I will cope without them when they leave in the future . My husband has a totally different and most likely the view I should feel, that they are growing into amazing people and we should be happy to watch them grow and leave but they have been my absolute world for 14 years and I am really struggling with it all. Sorry for waffling on😔

It's normal to feel wistful but not to well up all the time. Have you had a job or anything else to concentrate on while you were bringing them up?

Also, 10 is small still...and 14 isn't ancient! they'll need you for many years to come OP.

Mine are 17 and 13....tall and loud and independent but what can you do? Get a puppy....I know it sounds trite but DH and I did and we baby that puppy like nothing you've seen! She's like a replacement toddler for us,

@Hayleypop
My little girl is nearly 6 and my little boy is 3 and I feel sad now they aren't babies and mine are a lot younger
Sending lots of hugs 🤗

Had the exact same feeling when my DS turned 15. Couldn't believe the fact he was going to be doing exams, going to university etc all in the next few years. I still get those few unexpected moments though, when he comes over and just gives me a hug, when he tells me he loves me without me saying it first, when he chooses to come and sit with me instead of sitting in his room. You just appreciate those moments far more when they don't happen as often!

I started to view things differently, that this boy who I had (mostly) raised all by myself was now a man! And a bloody great one as well, and that's because of me. It's tough, but maybe just try and change your perspective a little and look at the good rather than the bad.

I've been a stay at home mum since my oldest was born so it's all I've known for 14 years. I would like to get a part time job soon hopefully but I also struggle with social anxiety so its holding me back from biting the bullet and applying for jobs.

The puppy idea is a great one thanks 😁 but we already have a small zoo of pets!