I fully agree with what you are saying. I will add to never stop learning. Reading books, attending lectures, bible study, start a book club ....keep working on yourself. I have surrounded myself with great positive friends that keep my social calendar as full as I like it.
We became empty nesters at 43 and are still loving it at 57. I paid my dues and now just enjoy the kids and grands visiting! They are scattered all over the country🙂
My youngest son is graduating high school this year and I’ve been in a funk... 22 years I’ve been just a mom.... it’s a fight everyday... I’ve been in a state of blah for a while now because the kids haven’t needed me as much... my two oldest are in college and I don’t hear from them too much... and I know they are busy ... working and going to school... it’s just heart breaking.... it’s nice to know everyone is going through this empty nest thing and it’s nice to know your not alone!
That's what I keep telling myself, You're not alone, but being an empty nester I sure feel alone. Time for me now and figure out life! It does get a bit better.
You've worked for this-it's time to celebrate! You did something that's very hard to do. You raised tiny humans into independent, confident, well-adjusted adults. You would NOT be happy with the alternative, I'm sure! Now it's time to focus on what YOU want to do for a change. Go out and do YOU!!
Our job as parents is to give them roots and give them wings. I have 4 grown children who I adore but I am loving my 50s! Thank you for sharing and for those young moms thinking they will never be able to do this trust me it happens if you want it to or not!! Your job as a parent is to work yourself out of a job. I focus on my husband, my job, my marriage and myself and life is good!
I became an empty nest mama in August as well. My husband and I blended a family of 4 boys 21 years ago, then two years later added fifth. I was also a stay at home mom for their entire growing up, which I loved, so when our youngest entered his senior year of high school, I ULCERATED over how my role was changing. My faith helps a lot and the fact that my husband and I have deemed this our "honeymoon" season, because it's now just the two of us. Slowly getting my house in order, the way I want it and am loving that I have time to focus on me, how I can grow, and be used on a daily basis to love and serve others. This is great!
Thank you! I’m a solo mom and don’t have a partner, but am going through all the emotions of empty nest. I really appreciate this video and your take on this stage of our lives. Very helpful. 🤘💕
This is the quote I kept on my refrigerator when mine were growing up - “We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes.” ― Charles R. Swindoll
You did a great job Marnie of explaining how this time in life will feel. I’m 66 and been an empty nester for 23 yrs. but parts of me misses having family around. That’s when I plan a nice family dinner or get together of some sort. I have grandchildren & LOVE having them out to stay the night BUT usually one night is enough & I’m ready for my peace and quiet! It’s a delightful time of life to enjoy with your partner! 😍
Marnie, this was a great video ! I am also a stay home mom who became an empty nester two years ago. I have three children. 24, 22, 20. They kept me super busy growing up. Having all that me time was an adjustment at first but also enjoyed getting involved with doing more with friends, discovering new hobbies and taking a part time job to keep me active while my husband was at work.
I am 53, and have been in and out of empty nesting for the past 6 years, with my kids moving out and back in. Currently, my youngest (23) has moved back home to finish his last year of college, but he’s hardly ever home. I also thought I would be curled up in the fetal position after my kids left, since I had been a stay at home mom since 1997, and I had also gotten pregnant shortly after getting married. But I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. My girls live close by and I have a granddaughter, so that is fun. My only issue is I don’t know what to say when people say “what do you do?” I used to be proud to say I was a stay at home mom. But now I don’t know what to call myself! Any suggestions? 😊 Just found your channel, and love it!
I can so relate with this!! I was a stay at home mom for so many years, and when I lost that "title" it was an adjustment!! Now I just say I'm retired!!!! :) Even though we both know you never "retire" from being a mom and grandma......but saying I was retired helped me adjust to not being needed by little ones 24X7.
Thank you so much for sharing your heart today! Hubby and I both turned 50 this year and our sons both moved out within 2 weeks of each other. It's been tough (for me!), but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Attitude is everything!
I think becoming an empty nester comes in stages as your children grow. At first when they are young,a weekend at a grandparents is great for both you and your husband to reconnect and remember that you're not just Mom and Dad but a couple. It's also great for grandchildren and grandparents to develop a relationship. When kids are older their world expands to school ,clubs ,sports,arts, dance ,summer camp these activities allow for developing friendships outside the family. This also give kids the opportunity to be away from home from their parents for a day or two or even week or even more. These are all healthy development throughout a child's life and for their parents. You start to become comfortable with your child having a life of their own and you developing a life outside of being a parent. When the time comes when a child goes to school, moves out of the family home you have become already accustomed to your child's independence and you have had a chance to develop your own Independence outside of your child's life.
Love this video Marnie! You have given some great advice :-) I am there too. 5 kids all flown the nest. At 59 i find myself thinking now what? I have 3 of them overseas, one interstate, and one close by but i rarely see her as shes works a lot. No grandchildren either. I always dreamt of a big family , which in turn would lead to lots of grandchildren, many family dinners and get togethers. None of it has worked out that way. I am not a big social person, so getting out there a lot isn't my thing. In saying that though, i am proud of all my kids and where they are in life. I just miss them.
Great topic Marnie!! My husband and I have recently become empty nesters, and we’re truly enjoying ourselves!! Every phase of our children’s lives were fun, but we did raise them to be independent, and now it’s time for us to rediscover ourselves and have fun while knowing our children are doing well and enjoying their lives💕 You’re so enjoyable 🥰
Thank you Marnie, I enjoyed this insight. I have a freshman too.....and been an empty nester since July. Both my husband and I were so looking forward to this time of life, sadly he passed away in the March of our sons high school junior year. So this transition is bitter sweet. However after watching this video I think it’s time for me to revisit our travel plans and do those things we had planned to do. Blessings to you ❤️
I lost my significant other in December so I in an empty house again. Working through the grief but the key is keeping yourself busy and social. I know not the same as your situation, but difficult just the same. I enjoy your videos.
I have 3 son. My 27 yr old is a Chemist and has a great job. My 25 yr old is an Engineer and also has a great job. My youngest is 22 and a senior in college. He will graduate in May with his bachelors in Criminal Justice. He will then go into the Academy. We are all very close but I miss them all so much. I have always worked PT (2-3 days per week) so that I could be home with them and raise them the way we wanted them raised. I am extremely blessed to have been able to do that. I sacrificed a lot in my life so I could do that, but I have no regrets. They are all within 3 hrs of home so I can visit them whenever I want to. Over Xmas break my youngest was home and planned for all of his college friends to come here for a New Years party. It was so much fun to have them all here, but I know exactly what you mean, Marnie. It was also great to have them all leave so we could get the house back in order and clean again. After each child left I spent several months in tears, but I am here to say that it is all good. Change is hard but we have to make the best of it. This is just a different phase in our lives. Happy empty nesting!!
Thank you for this! Healthy parenting is about setting your children up to individuate from you. It’s a job with a definite end point. Oddly, as important, and intense, as being a “stay at home” Mom/Dad is, it’s a rather short career in business terms. As long as 18-20 years seems, it’s about half of a professional work life. For their own health, every parent, and couple, needs to be planning on what they’re going to do when the children are gone.
Loved this! We have one daughter that just graduated from college in May, then moved back home briefly before getting her “adult” job and her own apartment. I love her more than anything, but can be honest that I am glad she has her own place now. My husband and I had gotten pretty used to having the house to ourselves and her coming home changed things up (and added more cleaning ;). Love how you keep it real.
Marnie, I started watching you way back when TH-cam was just a thing people did to share swatches of Wet and Wild in front of their bathroom wall but I love those 'tips' videos of yours so much. I'm 31 and I don't plan on ever having children but I truly enjoyed watching this and I'm so happy you're having so much fun. I love what you said about feeling like newlyweds with a better budget, I hope my retirement years are like that :) The bit about the Ritz-Carlton moved me because I think we all have this one place we've always dreamed of staying at and it feels like a dream-dream, not a wish-dream and then suddenly to have it happen is insane - the place hasn't changed but it brings you back to yourself and how much YOU've changed and accomplished, doesn't it? Great video :)
@@MsGoldgirl You told me so in your 'dorm room must haves' video (before Jake was even born, right?) ;) It's always lovely to receive a reply from you though, so no compaints here :)
Similar experience here.... only son went away to college. Thought I lose my mind. Turned out...I loved it. Then he transferred to a college here and moved back in for the remainder of college. That was a shock to my system 😂. Love having him here but we were really enjoying the empty nest!!!
Loved this Marnie. I’ll be an empty nester this fall and I will make use of your suggestions. ❤️ I also think a strong marriage helps tremendously. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my hubby.
We are 10 days empty nesters. Twins just went to college. There’s alot of freedom now, which I admit I was looking forward to for a long time! Meals are simple with just the 2 of us. Laundry machines not constantly jammed up and kids clothes everywhere. Half the amount of showers too! But yesterday with my husband traveling, I started to feel lonely.. which I don’t want to feel. As a creative I’ve always said I can never bored or lonely. I guess I’ll try to get together with friends when those feelings arise.
New empty nester here. Daughter, 23, moved out a few years ago but lives here in town. Son, 20, is moving out this coming week. He took a job a few hours away. So many emotions. It will be good for him to get out in the world and learn how to live on his own. I'm a "worrier" so I just worry for him. I work from home and love my quiet time when no one is home messing up my house :) . Husband and I have taken a couple of trips already last year without kids and those were fun. Still try to plan one family trip a year where we take the kids to the beach or theme park so we can all be together plus the kids like when mom and dad pay for their trip!
Kelly Canty We also try to plan a yearly trip for all of us. Last May we took all the boys and one girlfriend to Vegas and the Grand Canyon for 8 days. We had a blast!! It was extremely expensive so this year will be on a much smaller budget. I think it’s a great thing to do if you have the finances. Even if you go camping for a weekend, it’s great to have everyone together.
Yes girl! 🙌🏻 Our “baby” left in the fall to get her Master’s and I completely relate to this! It’s like when your kids are younger and when they are asleep you miss them and then they wake up and the noise starts again. It’s a crazy flip/flop feeling!! Haha!
I liked that you did this video. My oldest just turned 18 and applied for college. I’m a little freaked out about the changes coming to my life. I appreciate that there are lots of people who are or have been in the same situation and have gotten through it. Perfect timing!
I am so very happy for you! I am also married to a great man who I am best friends with! I have one 22 year old who lives nearby and we get along even better than ever. I still have a 16 (well almost 17) year old at home, but he already have ideas about moving out. He is my baby and confidante, so it will be harder. However, I totally agree with you that it's our job to prepare them to be independent. Job well done, Marnie!💜
Great video and totally on point! I have 2 kids completely out of the house, 1 in college and 1 high school senior. (Yes 4 kids!!) Every time one of them leaves the dynamic in our house changes. Its hard, but also a blessing because i know I am putting myself out of a job! I love my kids and am happy to be with them, but am also looking forward to the not too distant future where my husband and I can focus more on the things we want to do! Love these kinds of chats! Keep 'em coming!
I like these empty nest videos. My daughter graduates from high school in May and my son starts high school in the fall. I've been a stay at home mom for 8 years. I can feel the empty nest coming already. It's scary to let them go but at the same time, I'm looking forward to having time with my husband again (I got pregnant 13 months into marriage) and like you said, with a better budget. Please do another one in a few months just to keep us pepped up for it, lol!
Hi Marnie, thank you soo much for this video. I am 51 and my kids are 14,12 and 8, so I am quite far away from being an empty nester. But I adored the way you and Michael are enjoying your life, even though the boys are not with you. There was soo much sensitivity in the expression of your feelings, thank you so much! Please make more of those very private videos , I am sure not to be the only one to love them! Thank you.
This is great. We had a great time the first few years of empty nesters. Now my husband travels a lot for work, sometimes I can go with him if my schedule works, only home on the weekends and grandkiddos are here making sure to spend time with grandpa. So another chapter of our lives! Love it while you can because the next chapter will be busy again with kids if they live near you and if not you will be going to see those babies for trips lol
Oh My Gosh Marnie. I'm a new subscriber because I feel like you are speaking to my heart. I'm a single mom about to be an empty nester and your channel couldn't be more spot on, perfect for me. Christopher Allen recommended you, and I'm so thrilled I gave it a go. Thank you
I am glad you made this video. I will be an empty nester this August and I am dreading it. My son is going into aviation which adds more worry to the change. In God’s hands. This helps me look forward to the positive.
Is your son going to be a pilot? Mine is just finishing school for avionic repair and maintenance. I'm sure I'd be more nervous if he was still flying. I'm sure your son is really good at what he does so that helps with the worry!💕
It is an adjustment for sure!!! Change is usually difficult....but I've found that being an empty nester gives us some time to rediscover who we have become. Let yourself feel sad for the change, but then try to embrace it. I have loved trying new things.....like painting. I'm a terrible painter, but it was fun to take a class and give it a try. And now I KNOW I'm a terrible painter so now I can move on and try something else. LOL
Yep!!! I LOVE having the kids gone. I love when they come home but am ready for them to go back after 5 days LOL. Going out is the berries! You're right! Can have popcorn for dinner while watching a movie.
I have 3 boys ages 17, 14, & 10 and I cannot WAIT to be an empty nester! LOL I know I have at least another decade to go.....I have always been a stay at home mom, I love them but I’m looking forward to the day when they are out of the house and my husband and I can have more alone time together! I’m glad to hear you are enjoying it, it sounds wonderful!
Good video. I’m a little ahead of you in my next season, grandparent hood and retirement (a little early on the retirement!) I found it very comforting to see my 2 sons being adults, independent of me and leaning on each other for support as young adults. They are 18 months apart and have always been able to get along well. They are both in their 30’s with their own sons. This season I find myself in has been a big adjustment. That’s how I found your channel, I retired in November 2019, and I found myself in sweats and tee shirts all day! I’m finding once again what works for me fashion wise for my new lifestyle. But I would agree with your advice of making goals. Grandparenting is spectacular, by the way❤️
I love this video and definitely would like more like this! I have a two sons, one a freshman in college and one a sophomore in high school. I am 50. I will be an empty nester very soon, and have been a SAHM since my first was about 9 months old...18 years now. I need to figure out what I am going to do after I am "fired" from this job! Thanks.
Yes, YES, YES!!! I felt exactly the same. We had our 3 children fast. And when we became empty nesters it was by far easier to get use to than I thought! My Husband is Michael also and we have a Blast coming and going as we please. We often say we are really happy that we had our family early.
Hi Marnie. I am also 46 years old and my two girls are the same age as your boys. My husband and I became empty-nesters too last August as well! We are also really enjoying it!! I love how simple laundry is now and how clean the house is all the time! I had my girls in my early twenties and I am so happy to get my life back. I love my girls and they call all the time. I'm thankful to be still fairly young and to be an empty-nester!
Hubby and I are new empty nesters, since moving our son to a college in our state, NC, yet still so far away. I believe that staying busy is the best thing for me to do. Thanks for your inspiring words.
Thanks for sharing your experience. My youngest is a high school senior who will be graduating in May. Im nervous as to how I'll handle this new season of life but im excited for his future. Thanks again for sharing.
This resonated with me 110%! I have a freshman in upstate NY at CIA and a junior at WSU across the state. I’ve been a SAHM the whole time and was freaking out about what am I going to do?! Between taking care of my parents (step-father was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s) , volunteering just 4 hours a week and traveling with my hubby, I’ve been fine and love it. Although we barely saw the boys during winter break, I enjoyed seeing the independent young men they are becoming, except when it comes to cleaning and laundry. My husband of 26 years and I are discovering things we like to do together and that has been fun. Thanks for talking about this!
Totally agree! I’m long past that- I’m a 63 year old grandmother of 5 beautiful little granddaughters but I remember that passage. It’s similar to the shift that happened when DH retired. I was a former RN who homeschooled. Auto immune problems hit. Dealing with that taught me a lot. We began cruising, the kids married and granddaughters started appearing. DH retired. It’s not what we planned- it’s better! We’ve been married 41 years coming up to 42 years. It’s way more fun now in spite of health problems we both have. Those don’t define us. It really does keep getting better. The budget, the ability to drop & go on a flash sale cruise. The orderly house. So right! And that lipstick is gorgeous on you!
We are empty nesters as well and yes there is an adjustment period but honestly I love it!! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said to my husband how blessed we are to have this time together ❤️. I don’t feel like I really appreciated the early years of our marriage before kids so now I am appreciating that time now.
Empty nester, mid-life, perimenopause, hypothyroid, stay at home mom...sooooo relatable!! This could not have come at a better time. I was devastated when my kids left because that's all I had. Thank goodness for my hubby best friend. We have all this in common, Marnie. I am a new subscriber to your channel. Thanks so much for sharing this and lifting up my sadness. We have a trip planned in Italy in Sept. Sooooo excited!! There is so much more to life! ❤️❤️
And we're both in Texas!! Italy is on my bucket list!! And you have more than you think, and a lot left to offer to your community as well! Thanks for subscribing and welcome to our little community!
@@MsGoldgirl Yes!! I am near Dallas with 2 kids in college. We took a trip to San Antonio and LOVED the riverwalk! So excited for Italy. I have family there, but have never been there. Thank you so much, Marnie for brightening up my spirits. The empty nester has been a total shock to my system, but you have put such a positive spin to it. You are such an inspiration! xo ❤️
I did really well becoming an empty-nester and then... my daughter had our first grandchildren, then moved to Texas, and we are in Oregon. I'm broken and miss them SO much. It's such a strange feeling, but I feel as though I've lost my purpose. I want to relocate to Texas but my husband and I still have jobs and my parents are here, etc. I never thought I would feel this way. Thank you for your encouraging words -- I'm working to stay busy and have my own interests. But wow do I miss them!
Thank you for making videos like this, and your previous videos when your boys left for college. Our eldest leaves for college this weekend - we'll be settling him in on Saturday and my husband and I are driving back home (4 hours) without him and my heart hurts, but at the same time I'm so excited for him. We have a 14 year old so empty nest is a few years away but it's helpful to have you kind of leading the way with advice, so thank you.
I loved this so much 🙌 I am only just at the beginning of life as a stay at home mom of little boys and I do think about this idea so much and making sure I have a support system and identity outside of “just mom”.
Love this honest & from the heart video🙌🏻💖 Hubby & I are in our mid 40’s & our girls are 25 & 20.... As you were sharing... you were taking the words right out of my mouth👊🏻🙏🏻🤗
I just loved this video, I have been an empty nester since I got married 9 years ago 🤣 I work from home and now that we want to have children I have been thinking of how to balance that and this video did help in a way, just seeing your outlook on things and how live has evolved is great.
I'm glad that you're doing so well in your new life Marnie. It gives me hope that I'll be able to do the same when my youngest (of 3) leaves in 3 years. As a stay-at-home mom, it's such a big transition to have your main job become obsolete, especially when you love it so much. I started subbing this year at my kids' high school to see if I want to go back into teaching (after 15 years off), and although it's been fun, I can't see myself doing that for the rest of my life. I've decided to push through fear of the unknown, and start taking steps to do something I'm truly passionate about. In April, I'm starting a course on how to start a health coaching business. It's kind of scary, because what if I can't pull it together!? I've been coaching friends and family for years, and have a great deal of knowledge...but still...it's so unconventional, and I'm not sure if it makes sense financially....but since I've made the decision to do it, I feel like the future has opened up, and I'm actually excited, and not dreading the empty nest so much. I look forward to seeing more vlogs of the places you and Michael visit.
Great video Marnie, definitely more on the same topic. I have two boys as well, my youngest left a few months ago, and I felt that pain. For me it was the protection factor, I can no longer be the mum I always was. I'm happy they have become two independent and confident men. My daughter-in-law gave me a beautiful bracelet that was inscribed with "Thank you for raising the man of my dreams" that filled my heart and I know they will be ok out there in the world. It still does not matter how old they are, they are your babies. I say goodnight to them both every night and that I love them. I do enjoy this new found freedom though and no longer feel guilty for it lol xxxx
Great topic!!! THANKS!!!! We are enjoying being empty nesters. We've been empty nesters for nearly 7 years now! It was an adjustment at first, but we have found it's like being newlyweds again....only now we can afford to go out to dinner (something we couldn't afford as newlyweds!!) LOL
Great video!! My 3rd is going off to college in the Fall. I am having such mixed emotions. Looking forward to having a clean quiet house but at the same time I am dreading it.
So happy I found your channel. I am 46 years old too, an empty nester, recently stopped working outside the home and hoping to start my own TH-cam channel. New subscriber!!♥️
I have twins who are going to college this Aug. Let’s see how it goes for me😐 Hoping to be a Happy nester and hope the kids are happier in their new dwelling! Thanks for this content.
My boyfriend & I are 54 & 56 & we are doing the most…hahaha. Traveling, looking forward to dinner parties…getting into better shape… just living…… yay!!!! We have more fun than our grownup kids. Please be happy everyone & just livvvvvveeee… I’m so dramatic I Just tickle myself 🥰
This speaks to me so much. You’re a few years younger than me (I’m about to turn 52) but we started our family early in our marriage too. Also, I am a fellow former teacher and SAHM/volunteer. This is the first time in our adult life we have had the money to travel and since we took an overseas assignment, we have spent a lot of our extra money seeing Europe. It’s been an amazing experience but I am kind of terrified to return home and start over making friends, etc. I’m hoping to learn some tips to get involved since I’m an introvert at heart. Like you and Michael, I’m lucky to have my husband be my best friend but know I need to make more girlfriends too. I put all my energy into my family and now need to find another hobby, besides travel which I adore but gets $$$.
Marnie, I totally relate to this! I too got pregnant when I was married for only 3 months, and am married to my very best friend (27 years). We are empty nesters now and are having a blast! My husband travels a lot for work and I have a companion pass (yay SW Airlines), so I tag along with him all the time! I’ve always been a SAHM and am fortunate to not have to work, so I stepped up my volunteering. Keeping a routine is key, like you said. Thanks for the video!
Thank you, Marnie, for making this video. I am a Mom of a college freshman and a college graduate. My husband and I have been married 25 years and had our kids within the first 1 1/2 of our marriage. I am still struggling, but it is getting easier. Oh man, I am sure enjoying having my house the way I want it, I so relate to your reference! Thanks again.
I'm glad it's getting easier for you. Do you mind me asking what specifically you are struggling with? It might be helpful for other people to know and we can talk about it. Thanks!
Marnie Goldberg even though I have worked off and on and then full-time for a few years now, I still find it difficult to find my purpose. I try to get together with friends, but many are busy with their families. I’m also trying to discover new things to try, but working full-time cuts into a lot of options.
I’m a recent empty nester too. Really enjoyed hearing about your trips. Yes. Dating hubby again has been fun part of empty nest. We decide on dinner, etc.... not having to worry about what to feed them has been a huge relief of stress. No letting newlywed live back home doesn’t work speaking from experience. They divorced after a year. I often thought if they had been on their own, they’d still be married. We have a big house and they had second master. Still not a good idea. Fun video.
First time empty nester and can totally relate to everything you said! I took a photo of the piles of shoes at the front door at my son’s impromptu party he hosted BEFORE his real party! Love looking at that photo 🥰
Thanks for the reminder! After our last graduated college, we got in a rut of working, coming home & repeating. Without the schedules of the kids we became much less social. Time to turn it up a notch!
I guess I am at a similar stage in life, 46 year old sahm to two children, a junior in high school, and a freshman in college. Though I miss her daily, it is going much better than I anticipated. It helps knowing that she truly is happy. I wish she was just a car ride away (she is in the northeast, we are in Austin.) As you said it probably helps that my husband is semi-retired, and at home. I really enjoy these videos, I am a bit concerned for when my son leaves next year, since we will then be true empty nester. Please keep doing these videos Marnie, they help more than you think :):)
Adorable how your son said he would live with you and have his wife sleep in the top bunk. Our youngest of four children said she would live with us forever and take care of us when we get old haha. My husband and I meet in December through a newspaper ad, cause they didn’t have dating apps 30 years ago, got engaged one month later. Got married in the following September and pregnant a month later, first born in July. So a bit of a whirlwind all in the span of one year. Our children are all born within 2 years apart, had my fourth the month the oldest started kindergarten. I have days where I wish for that house full of kids and others where I am at peace with the quiet. Thank you for this video and the others that you do.
Refreshing video😀 I, too, am an empty nester. I had a honeymoon baby and at 47 my "baby", child #3 left for college 1 1/2 years ago. It has been great! It's not all roses with COVID and unemployment when I was laid off from my work remote job, but not as bad as I thought it would be. It's good to find a place to find content geared to women our age. I totally agree with you about having something in place before they leave that totally help me. It helps if you have a good relationship with your husband I am also best friends with my guy. I'd love to hear more videos about hypothyroidism which I have and empty Nester stuff and fun trip you've taken etc.
I'm not an empty nester just yet, but will be soon, so I can appreciate all the things you had to say. I would be interested in hearing your story on perimenopausal sleep issues you are having. I have not slept through the night in over a year and would love to hear what you do to try and help this. Thank you!
The sleeping has been an issue for me for a long time now, at least a few years. Melatonin is my friend. :) Although that helps with getting to sleep but not staying asleep.
Traci Hayes I started the perimenopausal business Dec 2018 (1 week after my 50th bday). The hot flashes started and got worse and worse. I was waking up 4-8 times per night sometimes having to change my pajamas. I got myself a rechargeable fan that I carried everywhere with me, even to work. I saw my GYN and first she gave me Premarin cream for the vaginal symptoms, which does help tremendously, but it does not help hot flashes. Just recently she put me on Premarin tablets and it was the best thing I ever did. Hot flashes are gone. My hair is growing back and it looks so much healthier and shiny. My nails are growing again. My mood is better. I know a lot of people are against taking meds, but for me it was the answer.
ROAD TRIP! Left on Christmas headed to Hilton Head, SC. We were ahead of a winter storm that hit Colorado. Christmas Day in Amarillo, TX . . . Never thought about restaurants being closed (I know). Thank goodness for the Big Texan. Then across the country we drove in a strategically packed Z3. Spent a week in HH with friends in a VRBO. Then south along the east coast of Florida and down to the Keys. Then up the west coast of FL across I10 to New Orleans, LA. But, going through GA, MS I would say to my husband, this is where Marnie traveled . . . Marnie? Yup, MSGoldGirl! Then back through TX and home to CO. 23 days on the road, I did mention we were in a Z3, we had a BLAST. Enjoy yourself!!!
Winter break seemed very looooong this year! Clothes all over, dishes in the sink constantly, bathroom a total disaster and then break was over. We are back to our new normal. I think being an empty nester is interesting, I do like going out when we want, eating where we want to eat and just being on a more relaxed schedule. We were married 9 years before we had children so we have had "alone" time before, but now it is more enjoyable as we aren't trying to build a house or careers and can just generally enjoy ourselves.
Really liked this video. I'm 47 soon to be 48, have a 19 and 21 yr old at home. Single mom. I can relate. My son left home once, I was devastated at first, then not so much . He moved back, and I was like, so when do u think you're ready to strike out again. I love my children, and always want them near, but looking towards navigating a different journey.
Marnie, Marnie, Marnie, 👏🏻 You "are " a sweetheart 💕and bless your heart. So 💫happy 💫for you and your words/experience will help many empty nester's. 🙋🏼
Are you using Progesterone for perimenopause? Some find it really helps. I’ve been with a BHRT MD since my 46th birthday. It gives me the best sleep, and really helps with estrogen dominance and anti-aging.
Love all this, I have 3. My 15 year old has been really challenging lately with social media and being drawn to the wrong girl. We are butting heads and it hasn't been easy. I feel like I'm already losing him.
My first child will be going off to college next fall and I'm dreading it! Thanks for this well timed video and for passing along your positive experience. Do you worry about them all the time? Please describe how you cope with having them out of the house and out from under your guidance and their safety net. I'm assuming its having the confidence that you taught them well enough to survive and thrive. But you wonder how good of a job you really did! LOL
My children are 12 and 10 so I have a ways to go but time flies by so I’m taking notes!!!!! And I started even younger than you did...I was 20. Hopefully I’ll pick up even more tips on this subject. Thank you. ☺️ Love from STL 💕❤️💕
Hello ... I learned about your channel via Amber at Story Chasing. I am a solo empty nester as well. My son turns 21 in April 2021. I love my Full Time RV Nomad Life. (similar to Amber) I turn 50 in April 2021. I look forward to hearing your stories.
I fully agree with what you are saying. I will add to never stop learning. Reading books, attending lectures, bible study, start a book club ....keep working on yourself. I have surrounded myself with great positive friends that keep my social calendar as full as I like it.
We became empty nesters at 43 and are still loving it at 57. I paid my dues and now just enjoy the kids and grands visiting! They are scattered all over the country🙂
What did you do when you started at 43?
My exact experience! I love being an empty nester and have been doing it for decades! Wait til the grandchildren come!! That is the true bonus!!
I agree Eileen!!! Grandchildren are the frosting on life's cake!!!
My youngest son is graduating high school this year and I’ve been in a funk... 22 years I’ve been just a mom.... it’s a fight everyday... I’ve been in a state of blah for a while now because the kids haven’t needed me as much... my two oldest are in college and I don’t hear from them too much... and I know they are busy ... working and going to school... it’s just heart breaking.... it’s nice to know everyone is going through this empty nest thing and it’s nice to know your not alone!
At least you know that you've done your job well! Hopefully that is somewhat of a comfort. 💕
That's what I keep telling myself, You're not alone, but being an empty nester I sure feel alone. Time for me now and figure out life! It does get a bit better.
You've worked for this-it's time to celebrate! You did something that's very hard to do. You raised tiny humans into independent, confident, well-adjusted adults. You would NOT be happy with the alternative, I'm sure! Now it's time to focus on what YOU want to do for a change. Go out and do YOU!!
Our job as parents is to give them roots and give them wings. I have 4 grown children who I adore but I am loving my 50s! Thank you for sharing and for those young moms thinking they will never be able to do this trust me it happens if you want it to or not!! Your job as a parent is to work yourself out of a job. I focus on my husband, my job, my marriage and myself and life is good!
I became an empty nest mama in August as well. My husband and I blended a family of 4 boys 21 years ago, then two years later added fifth. I was also a stay at home mom for their entire growing up, which I loved, so when our youngest entered his senior year of high school, I ULCERATED over how my role was changing. My faith helps a lot and the fact that my husband and I have deemed this our "honeymoon" season, because it's now just the two of us. Slowly getting my house in order, the way I want it and am loving that I have time to focus on me, how I can grow, and be used on a daily basis to love and serve others. This is great!
As a recent empty nester, it's nice to hear somebody else talk about it.
Yes! I agree! She has presented in a way that I never thought of. There are actually positives!!!!
Thank you! I’m a solo mom and don’t have a partner, but am going through all the emotions of empty nest. I really appreciate this video and your take on this stage of our lives. Very helpful. 🤘💕
This gives me permission to be ok with quietness and a clean house yet acknowledging there is a sense of loss
Marnie, you have such a wonderful way of communicating these things! Well said. Thank you! ❤️
Thank you Rhonda!
This is the quote I kept on my refrigerator when mine were growing up - “We cannot change our past... we cannot change the fact that people will act in a certain way. We cannot change the inevitable. The only thing we can do is play on the one string we have, and that is our attitude. I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes.”
― Charles R. Swindoll
You did a great job Marnie of explaining how this time in life will feel. I’m 66 and been an empty nester for 23 yrs. but parts of me misses having family around. That’s when I plan a nice family dinner or get together of some sort. I have grandchildren & LOVE having them out to stay the night BUT usually one night is enough & I’m ready for my peace and quiet! It’s a delightful time of life to enjoy with your partner! 😍
Marnie, this was a great video ! I am also a stay home mom who became an empty nester two years ago. I have three children. 24, 22, 20. They kept me super busy growing up. Having all that me time was an adjustment at first but also enjoyed getting involved with doing more with friends, discovering new hobbies and taking a part time job to keep me active while my husband was at work.
Oops sent too soon . Love all the extra time with husband but also enjoy when the kids come back home and enjoy being with us !!
I am 53, and have been in and out of empty nesting for the past 6 years, with my kids moving out and back in. Currently, my youngest (23) has moved back home to finish his last year of college, but he’s hardly ever home. I also thought I would be curled up in the fetal position after my kids left, since I had been a stay at home mom since 1997, and I had also gotten pregnant shortly after getting married. But I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. My girls live close by and I have a granddaughter, so that is fun. My only issue is I don’t know what to say when people say “what do you do?” I used to be proud to say I was a stay at home mom. But now I don’t know what to call myself! Any suggestions? 😊 Just found your channel, and love it!
I can so relate with this!! I was a stay at home mom for so many years, and when I lost that "title" it was an adjustment!! Now I just say I'm retired!!!! :) Even though we both know you never "retire" from being a mom and grandma......but saying I was retired helped me adjust to not being needed by little ones 24X7.
When people ask you what you do, tell them "whatever the hell I want"
Marnie Goldberg best answer ever❣️😍
Thank you so much for sharing your heart today! Hubby and I both turned 50 this year and our sons both moved out within 2 weeks of each other. It's been tough (for me!), but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Attitude is everything!
I think becoming an empty nester comes in stages as your children grow. At first when they are young,a weekend at a grandparents is great for both you and your husband to reconnect and remember that you're not just Mom and Dad but a couple. It's also great for grandchildren and grandparents to develop a relationship. When kids are older their world expands to school ,clubs ,sports,arts, dance ,summer camp these activities allow for developing friendships outside the family. This also give kids the opportunity to be away from home from their parents for a day or two or even week or even more. These are all healthy development throughout a child's life and for their parents. You start to become comfortable with your child having a life of their own and you developing a life outside of being a parent. When the time comes when a child goes to school, moves out of the family home you have become already accustomed to your child's independence and you have had a chance to develop your own Independence outside of your child's life.
Love this one, that phase is 2 years away but I still get anxiety thinking about it. Thanks for sharing there is hope at the end of tunnel ❤️
There is hope, and it's not the end of the tunnel, just a new part of the road!
Love this video Marnie! You have given some great advice :-) I am there too. 5 kids all flown the nest. At 59 i find myself thinking now what? I have 3 of them overseas, one interstate, and one close by but i rarely see her as shes works a lot. No grandchildren either. I always dreamt of a big family , which in turn would lead to lots of grandchildren, many family dinners and get togethers. None of it has worked out that way. I am not a big social person, so getting out there a lot isn't my thing. In saying that though, i am proud of all my kids and where they are in life. I just miss them.
Great topic Marnie!! My husband and I have recently become empty nesters, and we’re truly enjoying ourselves!!
Every phase of our children’s lives were fun, but we did raise them to be independent, and now it’s time for us to rediscover ourselves and have fun while knowing our children are doing well and enjoying their lives💕
You’re so enjoyable 🥰
Thank you Marnie, I enjoyed this insight. I have a freshman too.....and been an empty nester since July. Both my husband and I were so looking forward to this time of life, sadly he passed away in the March of our sons high school junior year. So this transition is bitter sweet. However after watching this video I think it’s time for me to revisit our travel plans and do those things we had planned to do. Blessings to you ❤️
I lost my significant other in December so I in an empty house again. Working through the grief but the key is keeping yourself busy and social. I know not the same as your situation, but difficult just the same. I enjoy your videos.
I have 3 son. My 27 yr old is a Chemist and has a great job. My 25 yr old is an Engineer and also has a great job. My youngest is 22 and a senior in college. He will graduate in May with his bachelors in Criminal Justice. He will then go into the Academy. We are all very close but I miss them all so much. I have always worked PT (2-3 days per week) so that I could be home with them and raise them the way we wanted them raised. I am extremely blessed to have been able to do that. I sacrificed a lot in my life so I could do that, but I have no regrets. They are all within 3 hrs of home so I can visit them whenever I want to. Over Xmas break my youngest was home and planned for all of his college friends to come here for a New Years party. It was so much fun to have them all here, but I know exactly what you mean, Marnie. It was also great to have them all leave so we could get the house back in order and clean again. After each child left I spent several months in tears, but I am here to say that it is all good. Change is hard but we have to make the best of it. This is just a different phase in our lives. Happy empty nesting!!
Thank you for this! Healthy parenting is about setting your children up to individuate from you. It’s a job with a definite end point. Oddly, as important, and intense, as being a “stay at home” Mom/Dad is, it’s a rather short career in business terms. As long as 18-20 years seems, it’s about half of a professional work life. For their own health, every parent, and couple, needs to be planning on what they’re going to do when the children are gone.
Loved this! We have one daughter that just graduated from college in May, then moved back home briefly before getting her “adult” job and her own apartment. I love her more than anything, but can be honest that I am glad she has her own place now. My husband and I had gotten pretty used to having the house to ourselves and her coming home changed things up (and added more cleaning ;). Love how you keep it real.
Marnie, I started watching you way back when TH-cam was just a thing people did to share swatches of Wet and Wild in front of their bathroom wall but I love those 'tips' videos of yours so much. I'm 31 and I don't plan on ever having children but I truly enjoyed watching this and I'm so happy you're having so much fun. I love what you said about feeling like newlyweds with a better budget, I hope my retirement years are like that :) The bit about the Ritz-Carlton moved me because I think we all have this one place we've always dreamed of staying at and it feels like a dream-dream, not a wish-dream and then suddenly to have it happen is insane - the place hasn't changed but it brings you back to yourself and how much YOU've changed and accomplished, doesn't it? Great video :)
Thank you so much Emma!! Your name was on our short list for baby girls (Emma Rose)...never did get to use it! ;)
@@MsGoldgirl You told me so in your 'dorm room must haves' video (before Jake was even born, right?) ;) It's always lovely to receive a reply from you though, so no compaints here :)
Similar experience here.... only son went away to college. Thought I lose my mind. Turned out...I loved it. Then he transferred to a college here and moved back in for the remainder of college. That was a shock to my system 😂. Love having him here but we were really enjoying the empty nest!!!
I am totally agree with you. There's are my feelings and thoughts too, about this. It's coming the time when we need to live our life.
Loved this Marnie. I’ll be an empty nester this fall and I will make use of your suggestions. ❤️ I also think a strong marriage helps tremendously. I’m looking forward to spending more time with my hubby.
We are 10 days empty nesters. Twins just went to college.
There’s alot of freedom now, which I admit I was looking forward to for a long time!
Meals are simple with just the 2 of us. Laundry machines not constantly jammed up and kids clothes everywhere.
Half the amount of showers too!
But yesterday with my husband traveling, I started to feel lonely.. which I don’t want to feel.
As a creative I’ve always said I can never bored or lonely.
I guess I’ll try to get together with friends when those feelings arise.
New empty nester here. Daughter, 23, moved out a few years ago but lives here in town. Son, 20, is moving out this coming week. He took a job a few hours away. So many emotions. It will be good for him to get out in the world and learn how to live on his own. I'm a "worrier" so I just worry for him. I work from home and love my quiet time when no one is home messing up my house :) . Husband and I have taken a couple of trips already last year without kids and those were fun. Still try to plan one family trip a year where we take the kids to the beach or theme park so we can all be together plus the kids like when mom and dad pay for their trip!
Kelly Canty We also try to plan a yearly trip for all of us. Last May we took all the boys and one girlfriend to Vegas and the Grand Canyon for 8 days. We had a blast!! It was extremely expensive so this year will be on a much smaller budget. I think it’s a great thing to do if you have the finances. Even if you go camping for a weekend, it’s great to have everyone together.
We love those trips together.....even though they only happen maybe once a year..... and now that we have grandkids they are even more enjoyable!
Yes girl! 🙌🏻 Our “baby” left in the fall to get her Master’s and I completely relate to this! It’s like when your kids are younger and when they are asleep you miss them and then they wake up and the noise starts again. It’s a crazy flip/flop feeling!! Haha!
I liked that you did this video. My oldest just turned 18 and applied for college. I’m a little freaked out about the changes coming to my life. I appreciate that there are lots of people who are or have been in the same situation and have gotten through it. Perfect timing!
I am so very happy for you! I am also married to a great man who I am best friends with! I have one 22 year old who lives nearby and we get along even better than ever. I still have a 16 (well almost 17) year old at home, but he already have ideas about moving out. He is my baby and confidante, so it will be harder. However, I totally agree with you that it's our job to prepare them to be independent. Job well done, Marnie!💜
Great video and totally on point! I have 2 kids completely out of the house, 1 in college and 1 high school senior. (Yes 4 kids!!) Every time one of them leaves the dynamic in our house changes. Its hard, but also a blessing because i know I am putting myself out of a job! I love my kids and am happy to be with them, but am also looking forward to the not too distant future where my husband and I can focus more on the things we want to do! Love these kinds of chats! Keep 'em coming!
I like these empty nest videos. My daughter graduates from high school in May and my son starts high school in the fall. I've been a stay at home mom for 8 years. I can feel the empty nest coming already. It's scary to let them go but at the same time, I'm looking forward to having time with my husband again (I got pregnant 13 months into marriage) and like you said, with a better budget. Please do another one in a few months just to keep us pepped up for it, lol!
Hi Marnie, thank you soo much for this video. I am 51 and my kids are 14,12 and 8, so I am quite far away from being an empty nester. But I adored the way you and Michael are enjoying your life, even though the boys are not with you. There was soo much sensitivity in the expression of your feelings, thank you so much! Please make more of those very private videos , I am sure not to be the only one to love them! Thank you.
Youngest goes to uni this autumn. I will miss the boy who makes me laugh with his razor sharp wit every day
This is great. We had a great time the first few years of empty nesters. Now my husband travels a lot for work, sometimes I can go with him if my schedule works, only home on the weekends and grandkiddos are here making sure to spend time with grandpa. So another chapter of our lives! Love it while you can because the next chapter will be busy again with kids if they live near you and if not you will be going to see those babies for trips lol
Oh My Gosh Marnie. I'm a new subscriber because I feel like you are speaking to my heart. I'm a single mom about to be an empty nester and your channel couldn't be more spot on, perfect for me. Christopher Allen recommended you, and I'm so thrilled I gave it a go. Thank you
Hi JoAnna! Welcome to our little community! Glad you're here!
I am glad you made this video. I will be an empty nester this August and I am dreading it. My son is going into aviation which adds more worry to the change. In God’s hands. This helps me look forward to the positive.
Is your son going to be a pilot? Mine is just finishing school for avionic repair and maintenance. I'm sure I'd be more nervous if he was still flying. I'm sure your son is really good at what he does so that helps with the worry!💕
It is an adjustment for sure!!! Change is usually difficult....but I've found that being an empty nester gives us some time to rediscover who we have become. Let yourself feel sad for the change, but then try to embrace it. I have loved trying new things.....like painting. I'm a terrible painter, but it was fun to take a class and give it a try. And now I KNOW I'm a terrible painter so now I can move on and try something else. LOL
Squeaky Clean yes, he wants to be a pilot. Thank yiuu
Yep!!! I LOVE having the kids gone. I love when they come home but am ready for them to go back after 5 days LOL. Going out is the berries! You're right! Can have popcorn for dinner while watching a movie.
I have 3 boys ages 17, 14, & 10 and I cannot WAIT to be an empty nester! LOL I know I have at least another decade to go.....I have always been a stay at home mom, I love them but I’m looking forward to the day when they are out of the house and my husband and I can have more alone time together! I’m glad to hear you are enjoying it, it sounds wonderful!
Good video. I’m a little ahead of you in my next season, grandparent hood and retirement (a little early on the retirement!) I found it very comforting to see my 2 sons being adults, independent of me and leaning on each other for support as young adults. They are 18 months apart and have always been able to get along well. They are both in their 30’s with their own sons.
This season I find myself in has been a big adjustment. That’s how I found your channel, I retired in November 2019, and I found myself in sweats and tee shirts all day! I’m finding once again what works for me fashion wise for my new lifestyle. But I would agree with your advice of making goals.
Grandparenting is spectacular, by the way❤️
Congratulations on your retirement!
So excited to have found your channel. Struggling through hypothyroidism and will be an empty nester in 3 years. ❤️
I love this video and definitely would like more like this! I have a two sons, one a freshman in college and one a sophomore in high school. I am 50. I will be an empty nester very soon, and have been a SAHM since my first was about 9 months old...18 years now. I need to figure out what I am going to do after I am "fired" from this job! Thanks.
It's good to start planning now so you can just keep on moving right into that next phase!
Yes, YES, YES!!! I felt exactly the same. We had our 3 children fast. And when we became empty nesters it was by far easier to get use to than I thought! My Husband is Michael also and we have a Blast coming and going as we please. We often say we are really happy that we had our family early.
preservid we did, too! Had our four kids by 25 and got the house back at 43🙂
Hi Marnie. I am also 46 years old and my two girls are the same age as your boys. My husband and I became empty-nesters too last August as well! We are also really enjoying it!! I love how simple laundry is now and how clean the house is all the time! I had my girls in my early twenties and I am so happy to get my life back. I love my girls and they call all the time. I'm thankful to be still fairly young and to be an empty-nester!
Hubby and I are new empty nesters, since moving our son to a college in our state, NC, yet still so far away. I believe that staying busy is the best thing for me to do. Thanks for your inspiring words.
Thanks for sharing your experience. My youngest is a high school senior who will be graduating in May.
Im nervous as to how I'll handle this new season of life but im excited for his future. Thanks again for sharing.
I’d love a video on SINGLE empty nesters. Should we stay in the “burbs” or move to an exciting city for more fun??
We have two boys....now grown men....and what you said is hard to put into words. You are spot on & did a great job explaining.🥰
This resonated with me 110%! I have a freshman in upstate NY at CIA and a junior at WSU across the state. I’ve been a SAHM the whole time and was freaking out about what am I going to do?! Between taking care of my parents (step-father was recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s) , volunteering just 4 hours a week and traveling with my hubby, I’ve been fine and love it. Although we barely saw the boys during winter break, I enjoyed seeing the independent young men they are becoming, except when it comes to cleaning and laundry. My husband of 26 years and I are discovering things we like to do together and that has been fun. Thanks for talking about this!
Totally agree! I’m long past that- I’m a 63 year old grandmother of 5 beautiful little granddaughters but I remember that passage. It’s similar to the shift that happened when DH retired.
I was a former RN who homeschooled. Auto immune problems hit. Dealing with that taught me a lot. We began cruising, the kids married and granddaughters started appearing. DH retired. It’s not what we planned- it’s better!
We’ve been married 41 years coming up to 42 years. It’s way more fun now in spite of health problems we both have. Those don’t define us. It really does keep getting better. The budget, the ability to drop & go on a flash sale cruise. The orderly house. So right!
And that lipstick is gorgeous on you!
We are empty nesters as well and yes there is an adjustment period but honestly I love it!! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve said to my husband how blessed we are to have this time together ❤️. I don’t feel like I really appreciated the early years of our marriage before kids so now I am appreciating that time now.
Empty nester, mid-life, perimenopause, hypothyroid, stay at home mom...sooooo relatable!! This could not have come at a better time. I was devastated when my kids left because that's all I had. Thank goodness for my hubby best friend. We have all this in common, Marnie. I am a new subscriber to your channel. Thanks so much for sharing this and lifting up my sadness. We have a trip planned in Italy in Sept. Sooooo excited!! There is so much more to life! ❤️❤️
And we're both in Texas!! Italy is on my bucket list!! And you have more than you think, and a lot left to offer to your community as well! Thanks for subscribing and welcome to our little community!
@@MsGoldgirl Yes!! I am near Dallas with 2 kids in college. We took a trip to San Antonio and LOVED the riverwalk! So excited for Italy. I have family there, but have never been there. Thank you so much, Marnie for brightening up my spirits. The empty nester has been a total shock to my system, but you have put such a positive spin to it. You are such an inspiration! xo ❤️
Great video. Thanks so so much. The next stage is worrying and unknown and stressful to think about. You have cheered me up :)
The unknown is always the hardest part-but it can also be really exciting! Try thinking of it that way! You'll be just fine!
I did really well becoming an empty-nester and then... my daughter had our first grandchildren, then moved to Texas, and we are in Oregon. I'm broken and miss them SO much. It's such a strange feeling, but I feel as though I've lost my purpose. I want to relocate to Texas but my husband and I still have jobs and my parents are here, etc. I never thought I would feel this way. Thank you for your encouraging words -- I'm working to stay busy and have my own interests. But wow do I miss them!
This video is a blessing! I needed to hear every word spoken. Thank you!
Thank you for making videos like this, and your previous videos when your boys left for college. Our eldest leaves for college this weekend - we'll be settling him in on Saturday and my husband and I are driving back home (4 hours) without him and my heart hurts, but at the same time I'm so excited for him. We have a 14 year old so empty nest is a few years away but it's helpful to have you kind of leading the way with advice, so thank you.
I loved this so much 🙌 I am only just at the beginning of life as a stay at home mom of little boys and I do think about this idea so much and making sure I have a support system and identity outside of “just mom”.
You're never "just mom" but I know what you mean!
Love this honest & from the heart video🙌🏻💖 Hubby & I are in our mid 40’s & our girls are 25 & 20.... As you were sharing... you were taking the words right out of my mouth👊🏻🙏🏻🤗
I just loved this video, I have been an empty nester since I got married 9 years ago 🤣 I work from home and now that we want to have children I have been thinking of how to balance that and this video did help in a way, just seeing your outlook on things and how live has evolved is great.
I'm glad that you're doing so well in your new life Marnie. It gives me hope that I'll be able to do the same when my youngest (of 3) leaves in 3 years. As a stay-at-home mom, it's such a big transition to have your main job become obsolete, especially when you love it so much. I started subbing this year at my kids' high school to see if I want to go back into teaching (after 15 years off), and although it's been fun, I can't see myself doing that for the rest of my life. I've decided to push through fear of the unknown, and start taking steps to do something I'm truly passionate about. In April, I'm starting a course on how to start a health coaching business. It's kind of scary, because what if I can't pull it together!? I've been coaching friends and family for years, and have a great deal of knowledge...but still...it's so unconventional, and I'm not sure if it makes sense financially....but since I've made the decision to do it, I feel like the future has opened up, and I'm actually excited, and not dreading the empty nest so much. I look forward to seeing more vlogs of the places you and Michael visit.
GO FOR IT!!
Great advice! I've been a SAHM for 18 years and my son will leave for college in a year, so it's helpful to hear your perspective.
You are truly a lovely lady in all ways. I am 66 year old woman. I struggle with many things. I love your videos. You have a beautiful family.
Great video Marnie, definitely more on the same topic. I have two boys as well, my youngest left a few months ago, and I felt that pain. For me it was the protection factor, I can no longer be the mum I always was. I'm happy they have become two independent and confident men. My daughter-in-law gave me a beautiful bracelet that was inscribed with "Thank you for raising the man of my dreams" that filled my heart and I know they will be ok out there in the world. It still does not matter how old they are, they are your babies. I say goodnight to them both every night and that I love them. I do enjoy this new found freedom though and no longer feel guilty for it lol xxxx
Great topic!!! THANKS!!!! We are enjoying being empty nesters. We've been empty nesters for nearly 7 years now! It was an adjustment at first, but we have found it's like being newlyweds again....only now we can afford to go out to dinner (something we couldn't afford as newlyweds!!) LOL
I nodded my head in agreement through out this video:) Spot on!
Great video!! My 3rd is going off to college in the Fall. I am having such mixed emotions. Looking forward to having a clean quiet house but at the same time I am dreading it.
Love this Marnie! Thanks again for another great video!!🥰
So happy I found your channel. I am 46 years old too, an empty nester, recently stopped working outside the home and hoping to start my own TH-cam channel. New subscriber!!♥️
So glad you’re here!
I have twins who are going to college this Aug. Let’s see how it goes for me😐 Hoping to be a Happy nester and hope the kids are happier in their new dwelling! Thanks for this content.
You will miss them for a little bit...and then hopefully the fun part kicks in!
My boyfriend & I are 54 & 56 & we are doing the most…hahaha. Traveling, looking forward to dinner parties…getting into better shape… just living…… yay!!!! We have more fun than our grownup kids. Please be happy everyone & just livvvvvveeee… I’m so dramatic I Just tickle myself 🥰
Yes!! Liiiiiivvvee! Intentionally with no regrets!!
Loved this, Marnie. So relatable!
This speaks to me so much. You’re a few years younger than me (I’m about to turn 52) but we started our family early in our marriage too. Also, I am a fellow former teacher and SAHM/volunteer.
This is the first time in our adult life we have had the money to travel and since we took an overseas assignment, we have spent a lot of our extra money seeing Europe. It’s been an amazing experience but I am kind of terrified to return home and start over making friends, etc. I’m hoping to learn some tips to get involved since I’m an introvert at heart. Like you and Michael, I’m lucky to have my husband be my best friend but know I need to make more girlfriends too. I put all my energy into my family and now need to find another hobby, besides travel which I adore but gets $$$.
Marnie, I totally relate to this! I too got pregnant when I was married for only 3 months, and am married to my very best friend (27 years). We are empty nesters now and are having a blast! My husband travels a lot for work and I have a companion pass (yay SW Airlines), so I tag along with him all the time! I’ve always been a SAHM and am fortunate to not have to work, so I stepped up my volunteering. Keeping a routine is key, like you said. Thanks for the video!
Thank you, Marnie, for making this video. I am a Mom of a college freshman and a college graduate. My husband and I have been married 25 years and had our kids within the first 1 1/2 of our marriage. I am still struggling, but it is getting easier. Oh man, I am sure enjoying having my house the way I want it, I so relate to your reference! Thanks again.
I'm glad it's getting easier for you. Do you mind me asking what specifically you are struggling with? It might be helpful for other people to know and we can talk about it. Thanks!
Marnie Goldberg even though I have worked off and on and then full-time for a few years now, I still find it difficult to find my purpose. I try to get together with friends, but many are busy with their families. I’m also trying to discover new things to try, but working full-time cuts into a lot of options.
47! You look amazing!!
I’m a recent empty nester too. Really enjoyed hearing about your trips. Yes. Dating hubby again has been fun part of empty nest. We decide on dinner, etc.... not having to worry about what to feed them has been a huge relief of stress. No letting newlywed live back home doesn’t work speaking from experience. They divorced after a year. I often thought if they had been on their own, they’d still be married. We have a big house and they had second master. Still not a good idea. Fun video.
First time empty nester and can totally relate to everything you said! I took a photo of the piles of shoes at the front door at my son’s impromptu party he hosted BEFORE his real party! Love looking at that photo 🥰
Thanks for the reminder! After our last graduated college, we got in a rut of working, coming home & repeating. Without the schedules of the kids we became much less social. Time to turn it up a notch!
Thanks for sharing your tips and personal stuff; can totally relate!
I guess I am at a similar stage in life, 46 year old sahm to two children, a junior in high school, and a freshman in college. Though I miss her daily, it is going much better than I anticipated. It helps knowing that she truly is happy. I wish she was just a car ride away (she is in the northeast, we are in Austin.) As you said it probably helps that my husband is semi-retired, and at home. I really enjoy these videos, I am a bit concerned for when my son leaves next year, since we will then be true empty nester. Please keep doing these videos Marnie, they help more than you think :):)
Don't be worried-it will get even better! So glad I could help!
Adorable how your son said he would live with you and have his wife sleep in the top bunk. Our youngest of four children said she would live with us forever and take care of us when we get old haha. My husband and I meet in December through a newspaper ad, cause they didn’t have dating apps 30 years ago, got engaged one month later. Got married in the following September and pregnant a month later, first born in July. So a bit of a whirlwind all in the span of one year. Our children are all born within 2 years apart, had my fourth the month the oldest started kindergarten. I have days where I wish for that house full of kids and others where I am at peace with the quiet. Thank you for this video and the others that you do.
Refreshing video😀 I, too, am an empty nester. I had a honeymoon baby and at 47 my "baby", child #3 left for college 1 1/2 years ago. It has been great! It's not all roses with COVID and unemployment when I was laid off from my work remote job, but not as bad as I thought it would be. It's good to find a place to find content geared to women our age. I totally agree with you about having something in place before they leave that totally help me. It helps if you have a good relationship with your husband I am also best friends with my guy. I'd love to hear more videos about hypothyroidism which I have and empty Nester stuff and fun trip you've taken etc.
I'm not an empty nester just yet, but will be soon, so I can appreciate all the things you had to say. I would be interested in hearing your story on perimenopausal sleep issues you are having. I have not slept through the night in over a year and would love to hear what you do to try and help this. Thank you!
The sleeping has been an issue for me for a long time now, at least a few years. Melatonin is my friend. :) Although that helps with getting to sleep but not staying asleep.
Traci Hayes I started the perimenopausal business Dec 2018 (1 week after my 50th bday). The hot flashes started and got worse and worse. I was waking up 4-8 times per night sometimes having to change my pajamas. I got myself a rechargeable fan that I carried everywhere with me, even to work. I saw my GYN and first she gave me Premarin cream for the vaginal symptoms, which does help tremendously, but it does not help hot flashes. Just recently she put me on Premarin tablets and it was the best thing I ever did. Hot flashes are gone. My hair is growing back and it looks so much healthier and shiny. My nails are growing again. My mood is better. I know a lot of people are against taking meds, but for me it was the answer.
ROAD TRIP! Left on Christmas headed to Hilton Head, SC. We were ahead of a winter storm that hit Colorado. Christmas Day in Amarillo, TX . . . Never thought about restaurants being closed (I know). Thank goodness for the Big Texan. Then across the country we drove in a strategically packed Z3. Spent a week in HH with friends in a VRBO. Then south along the east coast of Florida and down to the Keys. Then up the west coast of FL across I10 to New Orleans, LA. But, going through GA, MS I would say to my husband, this is where Marnie traveled . . . Marnie? Yup, MSGoldGirl! Then back through TX and home to CO. 23 days on the road, I did mention we were in a Z3, we had a BLAST. Enjoy yourself!!!
Winter break seemed very looooong this year! Clothes all over, dishes in the sink constantly, bathroom a total disaster and then break was over. We are back to our new normal. I think being an empty nester is interesting, I do like going out when we want, eating where we want to eat and just being on a more relaxed schedule. We were married 9 years before we had children so we have had "alone" time before, but now it is more enjoyable as we aren't trying to build a house or careers and can just generally enjoy ourselves.
Really liked this video. I'm 47 soon to be 48, have a 19 and 21 yr old at home. Single mom. I can relate. My son left home once, I was devastated at first, then not so much . He moved back, and I was like, so when do u think you're ready to strike out again. I love my children, and always want them near, but looking towards navigating a different journey.
Marnie, Marnie, Marnie, 👏🏻
You "are " a sweetheart 💕and bless your heart.
So 💫happy 💫for you and your words/experience will help many empty nester's.
🙋🏼
I love being an empty nester also. My last one went to college this August also. I am finding myself again.
Are you using Progesterone for perimenopause? Some find it really helps. I’ve been with a BHRT MD since my 46th birthday. It gives me the best sleep, and really helps with estrogen dominance and anti-aging.
Wait is this why I can’t sleep? I’m up watching this video at 4am….. ugggggg. I’m 54 still having a period & no hot flashes but I cannot sleep… omg
Love all this, I have 3. My 15 year old has been really challenging lately with social media and being drawn to the wrong girl. We are butting heads and it hasn't been easy. I feel like I'm already losing him.
Pick your battles...
My first child will be going off to college next fall and I'm dreading it! Thanks for this well timed video and for passing along your positive experience. Do you worry about them all the time? Please describe how you cope with having them out of the house and out from under your guidance and their safety net. I'm assuming its having the confidence that you taught them well enough to survive and thrive. But you wonder how good of a job you really did! LOL
My children are 12 and 10 so I have a ways to go but time flies by so I’m taking notes!!!!! And I started even younger than you did...I was 20. Hopefully I’ll pick up even more tips on this subject. Thank you. ☺️
Love from STL 💕❤️💕
Auburn mom here. My son is the same age as Jake. My husband went through a rough time at the beginning, but is doing okay now.
You’re awesome sister! Way to teach!! Enjoy your life with your husband. ❤️💄
Hello ... I learned about your channel via Amber at Story Chasing.
I am a solo empty nester as well. My son turns 21 in April 2021.
I love my Full Time RV Nomad Life. (similar to Amber)
I turn 50 in April 2021.
I look forward to hearing your stories.
I agree 😎 we love this season of life 💥👏🏻💥
I’d love a video about SINGLE empty nesters. Should I stay in the burbs or move to a vibrant city for more fun?!
I’m really not in a position to give advice on that. I’ve never lived in the city and I’m not single.
If I had the choice I would move to a city if I were you. Your chances of meeting a potential partner will be much higher than staying where you are.
I agree - all the advice is to do this ha with your partner
It’s much harder for single parents