Reposted from October 13, 2015
Emptying the Nest
I have been off the grid the last couple of days helping one of my little birds build her own nest. It is a strange feeling to start entering into the empty nest stage and I'm not sure what it will look like. We still have one bird in college, so we aren't there yet, but nearly.
As I begin this transition there are so many mixed emotions. I feel excited for all of the adventures that are ahead for my kids as well as how my adventures will change. I feel anxious for things like will they eat well, pay bills on time, make wise decisions, make new friends, enjoy their jobs, be responsible, kind, courteous, give back to society, recycle, brush their teeth... Ok, a little carried away, but you understand. I also feel sad, I will miss the noise and laughter that filled our home. I will have to learn to guide without being boss, how to be there and not smother, and so much more, but mostly I am happy to see them become the wonderful people they have become.
It goes way to quickly, here are a few tips to parents of small children, because your empty nest day will be here way too soon:
It really does go quickly, enjoy the little moments
Let them play in puddles, mud, dirt etc. They will have a blast and clothes and kids alike can be washed
Remember to tell them how precious they are
Have family dinners
Play games
The housework, jobs etc. will always be part of your daily life, but they won't. Prioritize
Go camping, even if it goes badly they will talk about it fondly later
The teen years do not have to be hard. Develop relationship when they are little
The attitude of a 2 year old is the same as a 16 year old. If you do not hold boundaries when they are 2 you will not be able to when they are 16
Be consistent
If your kids ask you not to tell anyone something, don't!
Laugh a lot
If something breaks or spills it isn't that big of a deal. Clean it up, hug your kid and go on. They are more important than anything that breaks or any little mess
Say I'm sorry when your're wrong
Let them be individuals and praise them for the things that are unique in them
Give chores from very early
Let them handle their own money
Let them make mistakes
Love, love, love, love, love them