<p>After dropping off our one and only at Hendrix two days ago, DH and I drove part of the way home in silence. Our lives have revolved around our DD for the past eighteen years. Yesterday was a funky day ... we were very tired and feeling a bit sorry for ourselves, too. Today is a different story. She called each of us at work today to fill us in on what's going on with her, her schedule, her orientation trip, and her new friends. She sounded so very happy that we couldn't help but be happy ourselves. Yes, I miss her, but the excitement that resonated from DD's voice far outweighs the sadness from missing her. We are so excited for her and the new experiences that lay ahead for her. For you parents who will soon experience the "goodbye" as you drop your child off at his or her college or university, chin up! I promise it gets better. :)</p>
<p>Lovely post, Splashmom. And this is just the beginning. Each and every month, semester, year, just keeps getting better and better and better. You're going to have so many happy, exciting days ahead.</p>
<p>What a fun "second day out," SplashMom. A call from a happy child has got to be the best possible Empty Nest-warming gift.</p>
<p>Just a note, tho, to parents of boys: YMMV. Some of them are not known to call, chat and fill you in on their day :confused: . No matter how many mental telepathy messages we send them.</p>
<p>Splashmom, thanks for the post. DS leaves for Boston in about a week. In the past month one dog and one cat passed away, we had both of them for many years, the cat for 19! Feels like my house of kids and pets is getting smaller and smaller. On the other side, I know my son is more than ready to go and that he will have a great time..</p>
<p>My experience with gender difference in communication is opposite.
DD never called unless we called her and exchanges were very often brief.</p>
<p>DS called everyday, sometimes multiple times a day.</p>
<p>This continues to this day. DD graduated in 2002. DS graduated in 2004. Both live 3000 miles from home.</p>
<p>ebeeeee - with one kid and 3 pets, I really felt the empty nest when our last cat died. </p>
<p>cbreeze - I meant to say that it's not always an S versus D thing. Although, I think the trends are there ;).</p>
<p>Splashmom, thank you for the update. We've still got a little over two weeks to go, and I know I'll be a mess on the drive back from Minnesota (fortunately, my husband is a saint!).</p>
<p>Awwwwwwwwwwwww, SplashMom, how WONDERFUL to hear that your D is adjusting so well <em>so</em> quickly!! Having a happy kiddo <em>really</em> helps with the pain and loss of her leaving. Keep us posted~I'm sure her time at Hendrix will just keep getting better and better! And {{{{{{HUGS}}}}}} to you as you cope with this significant life change. ~berurah</p>