My last long stretch at home...

Parent Cafe
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<p>Hey CC Parents!</p>

<p>I had a really…unsettling…realization the other day: there’s a big possibility that this winter break will be my last long stretch at my parent’s home for quite some time–I won’t be home for spring break (mission trip), I’m studying abroad for much of the summer, and I spend the rest of my year at school. I’m grateful I have all these wonderful opportunities. I’m glad I’ve had the chance to grow up and I’m excited to see where “my” life will take me as someone who really is independent of my parents and my family to some extent. </p>

<p>But nonetheless, I’m kind of uneasy. It’s strange to be headed into somewhat uncharted territory (I mean, I’ve lived “alone” at college for almost two years now, but still…) of living on my own for most of the time. I’m so used to St Louis, my home, my family, my job, etc, and I don’t know if I’m reluctant, nervous, excited, or all of the above! Did those of you with older kids notice similar feelings with them? How did you deal with it? Any advice? I don’t want to seem mopey that I’m winding down my time at home, but I also don’t want to waste my time here. </p>

<p>Perhaps it’s just a big part of growing up.
Thanks for your help and enjoy your holiday!
Kristin</p>

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<p>I think that your feelings are normal for anyone who was fortunate enough to come from a happy home. Growing up and leaving are a big step, and it is true that while you’ll be able to still return home and visit, your life at home won’t be the same as it is now.</p>

<p>I think you are really lucky to have the kind of concerns that you have. I had an absolutely miserable childhood, and couldn’t wait to leave home. I dreaded going home for the holidays, which tended to be times of stress and strife in my family. When I finally got to a point in my life in which I was working full time, so it was impossible or difficult to go home for the holidays, I was delighted.</p>

<p>I’ve noticed that my younger son, a college soph who goes to college away from home, says he is looking forward to eventually moving away from our city, which he says is small and boring. However, when he’s home for vacations, he tends to spend lots of time at home, and to have friends over here instead of hanging out with them elsewhere, so while I think he’s definitely looking forward to moving to a big city after college, he also appreciates the comforts of home, and will have mixed feelings when the time comes for him to really leave home.</p>