Hey all, my youngest just moved into her dorm last week and suddenly our home feels like a library at midnight. I’ve finished my morning coffee before 6 AM and sat staring at the silence. Anyone else feeling a bit adrift now that the kids are gone? How did you fill those unexpected hours and rediscover yourself?
I went through this two years ago when my son started college out of state. At first, I binge-watched old shows and baked things I’d never eaten. But that didn’t last. What helped most was picking up a painting class at the community center—totally random, but I found a new circle of friends and something to look forward to each week. I also volunteer at the local animal shelter on weekends; having a purpose beyond my family schedule eased the silence. It wasn’t instant, but little by little, those quiet mornings became my favorite “me time.”