<p>“But even more, I miss the children they used to be and the role I used to play in their lives. I feel that raising them was the most meaningful thing I ever did or ever will do. I miss having something that meaningful in my life.” </p>
<p>^ That is exactly how I feel about it all. My DS is a sophomore, and I thought his comings and going this year would be easier than last, but it isn’t really that much easier. Now DD will leave in August so I’m feeling the roller coaster of feelings I had for S all over again. This is a much tougher phase of life than I ever anticipated.</p>
<p>The smartest thing I did for myself was to get a part-time job 3 years ago. It helped me ease back into the workforce and forced me to think about something else all day. If I were still home all day I can only imagine the pity parties I’d be throwing myself.</p>