Yesterday, American Mother’s Day, was the first time, as a Mom, that my daughters were not with me. They have both flown the proverbial nest and are active, independent women. This year, I did get to talk to them, but no hugs, hand-made cards, or jocularity.
I spoke with my mother, left a voice mail with my Mother-in-Law, posted lots of love on social media, then cried myself to sleep. It’s not that I’m not happy, because I am! I’m a happy, grateful, thankful and proud mom. It’s just that this was the first Mother’s Day with no kids around. The Empty Nest thing really is real. The tears collected on my pillow represented joy, my 22-year tenure as “full-time Mom” and sadness that, “it’s over” until I see my little darlings again.
All of life’s lessons and experiences are only words until you live them and feel them. Now that I’ve lived and felt the first Mom’s Day without my kids, I know what to expect in the future, and I’m certain it gets easier. I’m full of hugs for any moms who need them next year!!
Happy Mom’s Day to all moms.
Aloha,
Denise
