My youngest son just finished college, so I’ve been having some Empty Nest Blues.
This is on top of being divorced, so it hits a little hard that my nest is well and truly empty.
However — Even if I were still married — kids grow up. This is a good thing!
I am incredibly proud of both my kids.
Yes, I look back fondly on those wonderful times when they were toddlers and young kids, soaking up learning. We got to be a young family living in Europe. We got to visit castles, go hiking regularly on our “mountain,” play games together, see sights of Europe. Although my marriage ended badly, I have experienced being loved by a spouse deeply and truly. (For awhile, anyway!)
We weren’t perfect young parents, and every moment was definitely not idyllic. But we had some tremendously happy times together — and I think my kids are among the most wonderful people God has ever created. I’m so glad their youth was entrusted into my care.
So yes, even if I were still happily married, this day would still have come. My kids are launching out into the world, and I’m so proud of them!
And I miss them — and I’m glad I do. And I’m thankful for precious memories, which I will always cherish.