<p>Just wait until they are seniors in college and you are unable to help/prod them to make their post college plans at all- they can easily ignore absent parents. It’s all about letting go. You have to trust you did your job in raising them to have the skills to make their way in the world without you there (trying to convince myself that son really has matured in the past four years). The next trip home will come- with the many shoes, dirty dishes outside the kitchen, late lights/noise, water usage and a FEW precious moments for you… </p>
<p>Forget about ever getting them back into the family routines- you have proven you can get all work done without them and they will never think to lighten your load. They will, however, revert to all of the work creating, annoying habits you didn’t miss. Coming home means vacation time for them and dorm life means cleanup still magically occurs regardless of any messes outside their room. Yes, I also miss my son even after after numerous leavings and returns- it helps to remember the annoyances and lack of time spent with parents when he does return.</p>
<p>1sokkermom- good luck to your son. I have nephews who have been/are there straight from HS.</p>
<p>laxtaxi- a different cause does not diminsh the separation. Your feelings are just as valid</p>
</p>