Writin' on Empty: Parents Reveal the Upside, Downside, and Everything In Between When Children Leave the Nest

A friend suggested I read this book while I was dealing with my only child leaving for school. Even though millions of parents have dealt with the "empty nest" syndrome, it hit me especially hard and I was searching for something to help me cope. Reading this collection of essays made me realize that I wasn't alone and that yes, I would once again feel myself and not feel sad all the time. These stories are touching and heartfelt. I highly recommend this book to all parents...especially those dealing with a loved ones departure.

I wish we had this wonderful compilation of essays to read when our sons left for college a few years back. All of the authors have tapped into the 'void' that parents have experienced when their kids leave home either for college or the service. The personal stories are very compelling and heartfelt!

Having just seen my son go back to his troop (again) while he was on leave, I discovered this book at the perfect time. I was pleasantly surprised that mixed in with the essays about packing kids off to college, that parents who have sent kids off to serve their country were heard from as well. There are two pieces that hit the nail on the head about what this experience is like for a family: Blue Sky, about a family waving goodbye as their son sailed off on his troop ship to leave his family wringing their hands in fear for his safe return. The other essay, Ready or Not, writes of a single-mother's anguish about her son's decision to join the military, resulting in a new dimension and respect for each other when he becomes a man in the process. This book is a treasure for all parents who are sending their children off to places unknown, sometimes with unexpected results.

Sometimes it just feels good to know your not alone feeling bad. This well written collection of essays from both men and women consoled me by their sharing pain,insight and pleasure; reminding me that their are upsides to being an "Empty Nester" as well. With a huge void inside when my "baby" left for New York, I found these well written essays comforting,insightful and hopeful all at the same time.