Empty Nester? Make It a Mother's Day Any Day of the Week, Any Time of Day. Here's How! by Kaira Rouda

Parenting Holidays
7 years ago

Empty Nester? Make It a Mother's Day Any Day of the Week, Any Time of Day. Here's How!

Now that I'm an empty-nester, I view Mother's Day through a different lens. I've discovered, as with many things that an empty nest brings, Mother's Day is not the same as when my kids were little. I can console myself with the fact that all four of my kids are happy, healthy and thriving. That's the new form of a homemade handprint painting – their happiness – but now I hold it in my heart instead of hanging it on the refrigerator.

Now, I'll take a Mother's Day any day of the week, any time of the day. Whether it's a quick call from my daughter when she has a break during work, or a surprise visit by my college junior bringing his friends home for the weekend, that's a special day. 

Do I want more time with the kids? Always. Being a mom, though, is a process of letting go from the time your baby is born. And so this empty nest stage is another step in the process. I know my kids and I love each other, even if they can't be with me on Sunday. We'll make up for it the next time we're together, we'll make it a Mother's Day. Memories and moments are what matters now to make this mom's day. And as I think about it, I suppose that is what has mattered all along!

Elisa Schmitz
I absolutely love this, Kaira! Your family is so beautiful. Thank you for sharing this empty nest perspective on Mother's Day, and Happy Mother's Day to one of the best moms I know! xoxo
Donna John
So well put, Kaira! I'm an empty nester, too. Will get to see both my daughter's tomorrow, but not my son. But will see him next weekend. Mother's Day is just a number on the calendar. You can make it any day you want ... and as often as you want! Great tip!!!
Jan Mostrom
I love this! I too am an empty nester and I love how you describe how changes can be good even when we can't have them with us all the time.

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Bye, Felicia: 4 Things You Need to Give Up This New Year to Live a Better Life

Traditional Sweet Italian Easter Bread Recipe With Colored Eggs

Sweet Bunny Bread Recipe: A Fun Easter Craft That You Can Eat

“Become the Fire” Book Signing at The Book Stall: Building Community Has Never Been So Much Fun