I know I'm an empty-nester because:

anon94785555
Mon, 03 Sep 2007 15:02:48 +0000

No more checking his bathroom, bedroom and the computer room upstairs for dirty dishes before running the dishwasher.
Knowing there will be enough milk for breakfast when there was enough at midnight.
No emptying the dryer when I need it days later.
Mowing the lawn.
Eating what, and when, we feel like it.
Lower energy and water bills.
Garland said it.
No closing doors when home alone- any arrival is spouse.
Finding library books, magazines where you left them.
Stove and counter remain clean.

Notice how all of the above relate to things, not relationships? When sons return from college for the summer they don’t suddenly involve themselves in their parents’ lives, except for a place to stay in between semesters.