An Empty Nest

There were three active baby robins in the nest in the photo on this blog, Thursday, May 8, "Fresh!"  Two days ago, the not-so-little ones jumped out of the nest and are gone - forever.  It was time.

No more little fuzzy robins!

When grown-up humans leave the nest of their homes, it's usually a different situation.  Preparations have been made: where will they live?  Is there income enough to support them?  Is there a job or school waiting for them?  What will they take with them and what can they leave at home?  Is this a solo life or will there be a roommate or spouse?

Whether we have one or a dozen children, there are plenty of mixed emotions when we parents are 'on our own,' too!  If our whole lives have been dedicated to the upbringing of our precious children, the quietness of the house and lack of the usual activities will be something new.  Wise parents will see this day coming and prepare for their own "new lives" by developing some of their own interests as the years unfold.

Since both my daughter and granddaughter, who each have their own homes, were feeling ill this morning, I went to church by myself, sort of.  Once I got there, plenty of friends were there.  But I came home, had lunch by myself, and am having a pleasant afternoon reading the newspaper, playing computer games, etc.

The older I get, the more I find myself, 'going with the flow,' just being prepared for whatever the day might bring.  I used to make more specific plans with most of my time.  It was a challenge to be wherever I or one of the children had to be every hour, every day.  Jobs and school functions are so demanding!  Now, I sort of plan what would be nice to accomplish in the following week.  I never seem to complete everything on my 'list,' but am happy to help whoever I can when they need me, as they need me. It is time.

Praise you, Lord, for the different 'seasons' of our lives, for the busy years and for the quiet times!