Just What I Never Wanted to Be: Laments of An Empty Nester

 Here I go, my first Blog. As I was setting this up my oldest son called from Northeastern PA. He noticed that I invited him to something, but was unsure what it was. So I told him what I was doing, but admitted, I couldn't figure out how to write something here. As usual, he was his helpful self and suggested I start by pressing the letters on my keyboard. I can't believe I miss him around the house!

My youngest son just moved into a dorm for the first time since he started college. He is in his junior year, and while I was anxious that he have the "full college experience", now that he is, I find myself picking up the phone almost daily (OK not almost - it is daily) just to remind him of stupid things that he should know to do by now - like drop off his financial aid forms, and sign up for that fifth class. He hasn't done either yet. That's alright though, since now I have a reason to call tomorrow - just to check on his progress.

I am not married, and haven't been for a very long time. I do have a significant other, J--, who lives in NJ, so we see each other about every other weekend, For a commitment phobic person like myself, that has been a perfect arrangement for a few years now. I am afraid though that after spending this coming weekend with him, that when it is time for me to happily hop in my car for my 3 hour ride home on Monday, I'll find a reason to stay until Tuesday. And then, if the kennel agrees to allow the dogs to board longer, I might have to stay for just a few more days, like say, when my underwear becomes underwear your mother tells you not to wear in case you are ever in an accident (since I will have a limited number with me, and they will have frequent washings, I can't see them lasting more than a month or two). I would of course not consider buying more, since, I'd never want to outstay my welcome, and God forbid, I don't want to start to depend on him or anything.

I can't believe that it is already Wednesday! I have made it three whole days since dropping off A-- at college, and I have only dropped in once. I had no choice! His brother, T--,  who was home for the weekend wanted to see the new humble abode. If I could have only stayed long enough to straighten out his bed, hang up some of the clothes that we brought additional hangers for, and well, just for fun organize his two roommates' chaos too, I would have been a very happy mom! But no, instead I sat on a box against a wall with my stomach in such distress, I had to skip steps going downstairs to the "girls floor" so I could inconspicuoulsy as possible run into the bathroom (twice). I won't go into details on what happened in there, other than to say I was glad the window was open. Finally, pale, sweaty and weak, we said good-bye. We only had to stop once on our fifteen minute ride home and I'd like to think that anyone that saw me bolt into "DD" just thought I really, really needed an afternoon caffiene fix.

So now it is me and my two doggies, a Saint Bernard named Abbey, and a Bassett Hound named Jake, two cats, Nalla and Chewey, and of course, Lolitta, our ball python to keep me company. Lolitta is great at giving hugs, but I try to avoid those. Jake and Abbey have never been to the dog park as much as they have been this week. And now, since I haven't slept more than a few hours a night since my house emptied, the cats get a lot of middle of the night belly rubs, since the dogs are too pooped after running for hours in the park.

I might be a little lost this week, but I hope, as time goes on, I will acclimate to the quietness around here. I am looking forward to learning to cook recipes that aren't designed to feed six. (I know that there were only three of us, but have you cooked for two growing boys? If so, you know what I mean!) When I find something tasty, I'll be happy to share, just as I hope you will. I have a lot of cleaning and organizing to do around here too. Since I am not really a pack rat, but somehow I am missing the "how to organize gene" any tips, will be greatly appreciated. Lastly, if anyone can share tips on how to get a life now that your life's purpose has begun to learn independence (ummm, that would be without going to the bar down the street to watch the Red Sox, T--) I'd be happy to hear that too, and if I make it home before my underwear wears out, I'll tell you what's new around here.

Cheers!

C-