So, we did all the pleasantries and I asked about his kids and he asked about mine. And then we both sighed and agreed that it all goes just too darn fast.
I asked him what he does now that the kids aren't home anymore. He knew what I meant--not what is your job or your hobby, but what do you do now that you don't go to everything your kid is in? What ever do you do with spare time? And more importantly, how do you adjust?
He admitted to being lost for a few years, and feeling sad when hearing the loudspeakers at the football field or the cheers from the Little League games a few blocks away. Such happy sounds....with such feelings of sadness mixed in. It's like you just don't belong to that club anymore and it makes you melancholy and wish for yesterday.
"Do you miss it?" I ask. And he replies "Not anymore. It's amazing how quickly you can enjoy doing what YOU want to do for a change." I can't even imagine. And he finishes his thought with a laugh and a smile, adding "I can eat dinner when I'm hungry--not when we have to eat before we have to be somewhere else!" I laugh with him. I know the scenario all too well, cramming food down because we have to GO.
It's funny, this new club I'm beginning to be associated with--the "My Kids are All Grown" Club. It's a fun club, but there is always this hint of yesterday mixed in. Oh, we have a good time alright, but it always begins with "So, what are your kids up to these days?"
As we parted, Jim said "Yeah, those were great days. But I'm not going back. I'm not sittin' out in the cold and rain for the grandkids."
Oh, I'll bet I do.
And I'm guessing he's a big talker and he'll be in the stands behind me.
15 comments:
I'm sure that neighbor will be there and even more excited about watching the grandkidlets. I really loved watching Briana play water polo. Even thought about attending some matches the next year, but I never did.
The best part is that we have both the memories and the vista of bright things yet to come!
The first two grandkids, yeah, I did. But then as they increased rapidly in number, I gave it up. I think one or two of my kids rather resent that I didn't dedicate myself to their kids' sports, but whoa! I have a life, too.
awww, my nest is empty and i can totally relate. i wasted 2 months crying and being sad before i realized the gift i had been given, my own life back. time to do whatever i wanted, whenever i wanted. i could eat and sleep and craft and blog....and then the joy began.
i love my boys but wow, this is great!!
I adore having an empty nest.....best time of our lives and no way would we go back... nevah!
Awh...but yes, the grandkids is where it's at (in a few more years, anyway)
This made me laugh. My youngest son moved out...he moved back in...he moved out...and back in...now he has moved out for good as he's married....I still have my oldest living with us. I can't get rid of him it seems. Threats don't work:) Maybe we should move and not tell him...LOL
yes Lin it's nice to have my free time back but i still miss watching Emily play soccer and being a band parent as crazy as that can get sometimes , funny our house used to have two seasons soccer and band and now it's spring , summer , fall and winter . lol
You know you will. I sat out in all manner of weather for nieces, nephews and goddaughters.
Then they bring the eight grandkiddos in and it all starts all over again! Heeehehehehe!!!
God bless ya and have a terrific weekend sweetie!!! :o)
Yep, you'll be out there! No doubt about it!
Aw, this was such a sweet post. Thank you (even though I can't relate since I don't have kids.)
I occasionally feel a twinge of guilt because I honestly do enjoy having an empty nest. I get over that guilt real quick though :)
Yes, I bet we'll ALL be out in the cold & rain watching the grandkids some day!
I have 2 more years before I have to deal with this, but I have to admit, I do sometimes catch myself thinking about how nice it will be to not have to get up at 5 am to pack the van with food, gatorade & gear to get to the softball fields before the sun is even up!
That is such an adorable photo. I think it's easier when it is grandchildren. You get to go to watch and don't have to parent at the same time.
Cute pic! So far I've avoided the grandkids thing.
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