Rediscovering “Us” in the Empty Nest
Fall Weekend Get-a-way in Green Lake WI
When the kids move out, the silence can be deafening. After years of pouring your time and energy into their lives, the shift to an empty nest can leave you wondering, What now? But this new season is more than just an adjustment—it’s an incredible opportunity to rediscover yourself and reconnect with your spouse.
For years, my husband and I were “Mom” and “Dad,” navigating busy schedules and putting our relationship on the back burner. When the house quieted, we realized we’d forgotten how to just be us. It was strange at first, but we soon saw it for what it was: a gift of time to nurture the bond that started it all.
We began intentionally carving out moments together, relishing simple, long-overdue joys. One day, we visited our favorite winery, Owen Valley Winery in Spencer, Indiana, for brunch, enjoying the crisp air and easy conversation. Other times, we’d linger over coffee at a quiet café, dreaming about the next chapter of our lives. And sometimes, it’s as simple as a long embrace in the stillness of the morning, a moment to remind each other of the love that has carried us through every season.
How We’re Reconnecting
Plan Intentional Dates
Life feels less rushed now, so we take advantage of it. Whether it’s a spontaneous trip to a winery, a stroll at sunset, or sitting on the porch with coffee, these moments bring us closer.Try New Adventures Together
We’ve started exploring hobbies like tackling DIY projects and rediscovering old favorites like date-night dinners. These shared experiences infuse our days with fun and connection.Cherish Small Moments
It’s not just the big outings that matter. Sometimes, the most meaningful times are the simplest: holding hands during a walk, laughing over dinner, or enjoying a peaceful embrace at the end of the day.Dream About the Future
With the kids grown, the possibilities feel endless. We’ve started dreaming about trips we want to take, goals we want to pursue, and how we can serve others as a team.
This season of life isn’t about what’s missing—it’s about what’s waiting. While we sometimes miss the bustling days of a full house, we’ve learned to see the empty nest as a beginning rather than an end. It’s a time to nurture our marriage, create new memories, and embrace the beauty of “us.”
So, grab your favorite person and head to that winery, linger over coffee, or simply enjoy a quiet moment together. The empty nest is your chance to rediscover each other, and it’s a journey worth taking.
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