I’ve had a nice relaxing summer so far. My two children are enjoying camp and I am enjoying them at camp! My youngest is starting kindergarten in the fall and I always said that I was so excited to get to this point in my life. Oh, all the things I can do with them both in school. See, I didn’t rush preschool and last year my little one went to vpk with a pick up at 12 pm. As rushed as my days were, I enjoyed the time I had with her and she sure learned patience by waiting for her older sister in car lines with me!

Fast forward to today when I just used her school id number to link her lunch account with her older sisters. Okay, that was real for me and I’m so excited for this time for her and also a little sad that my little girl is growing up. As I write this, I know that others are experiencing different levels of excitement and sadness with their children going off to school, whether it’s college or just leaving the house. The real empty nesters are getting ready to experience life without tending to every one of your child’s needs.

Welcome back to adulthood! What, you are sad, unable to get out of bed, do not know what to do with your days? If this is you, then let’s talk.

As happy as you are for your children to leave the house, they’re still leaving the house and you’re still at your house. What does this mean for your relationship? Are you wondering how you’re going to handle the silence in the house? Does your partner/spouse annoy you with just being in your space? Did you spend all of your time and energy on your children and then you look at your spouse/partner and realize you don’t know who they are?

These feelings are normal and they don’t need to lead to separation or even divorce. Here are some things that you two can do to spice up your relationship!

1. Go on a second honeymoon.
2. Pick up a hobby together.
3. Find an exercise routine for both of you.
4. Work on your relationship through counseling.
5. Make sure you go out on dates and make your relationship special!

If this isn’t working and you feel you need more help, I understand and this is what I do. I help couples, such as yourself, to reconnect, learn how to be intimate, like each other and communicate so the other one understands.

You can and should enjoy this time of your life and I look forward to helping you get to your ideal empty nest dream!