Any empty nesters out there?

[lil_tyrant]

I've been in college for 2 years now, and in about 2 weeks my sister will also be starting. My mom works nights and my dad works days, so there's going to be a lot of alone time for both of them. The other day we were talking about hobbies, and that's where my question comes from. Anyone else out there have a situation like this? Anyone have any ideas how they can keep busy?

[Pilgrim]

I'm there, along with my wife. Fortunatly, both daughters either go to college in the same town we live in, or 30 miles away, so we get to see them. But we're busy enough with work that we still don't get around to dinner until 7 or 8 in the evening.

The best thing for both of you kids to do is to keep in touch. Your parents care about how you're doing...and as you go through college, there will be a LOT of things and experiences you want to talk over with them.

Every couple of days, text them; call them. If you're close enough, stop in for Sunday dinner. (We've found that making something really good is a great way to get kids home for a free Sunday meal.)

Encourage them to develop hobbies and interests they can pursue together. If they don't play golf, they should take it up on weekends.

I remember that it really did get quiet in the house when daughter #2 went to college last year. So do your best to keep in touch.

[BlacksHole]

I'm an empty nester - both my kids have grown and now live with their spouses. We do keep close contact with them, particularly my wife, and they are still an important part of our lives and an occasional drain on the checkbook.