Empty Nest

Why is it that everyone is so excited about the kids growing up and moving out? I admit that I looked forward to that day, but now that the day is here I can't stand it. With the kids at home there was always something to do, someone to talk to and care for, and the feeling that I made a difference in the home. Yes, the difference may have only been that the laundry was done, the grocery shopping taken care, or food was on the table--but it counted for something. The house was filled with emotions, busyness, and purpose. And though we didn't always have the "Brady Bunch" sweetness and everything is fine moments, we did have good times and plenty of those special times when everything feels right.

I was watching "Failure to Launch" last night with Mike. At one point the mom in the story made the comment that having her son move out and leaving just her and her husband scared the **** out of her. She then went on with her fears of "what if we don't like each other any more?" and so on. When I first watched the movie a couple of years ago, these comments didn't even register. Now, I so know what she means.

I don't know how to be with "just Mike." What are we supposed to do? What do we talk about? How do we live with just the two of us? It doesn't seem like we should be hiding in different rooms, in books or movies, or in work-related projects. I can't get used to not having others around to fill the voids or give me purpose--so, I am lost--really lost in this new, and disappointing phase of life.

If any of you have suggestions on dealing with this, please pass them on. I really don't know how or what to do with this "empty nest" stage.