Long before my grandkids moved in with us, I was aware of empty nest syndrome. I had experienced it with my daughters and remember how lonely I felt in a quiet house without my daughter’s chatter. Both of them are enrolled as entering college seniors, and living their own lives. And I am an empty nester again.
In the six years that have passed since my twin grandkids lost their parents in separate car crashes, I have become re-acquainted with teenagers, learned some new jargon, learned about new customs, and learned that I need my grandkids more than they need me.
Though they will be home off and on this summer, for the most part, they will be gone. My grandson lives in Minneapolis and my granddaughter has summer travel plans. Just like before, I miss the chatter and busy life of teenagers. Being an empty nester twice is not easy.
Still, I am excited when they walk in the door and say, “Hi Grandma!” I love hearing about their activites and plans. I am delighted they are on the Dean’s List and doing wll in college. We have become a grand-family and it is rewarding.