Empty Nest,  Family Legacy

52 Is The New 52

Last week I celebrated my 52nd birthday. On my birth date, most years, I can honestly say that I feel four or five years younger than my chronological age. This year was unique due to the series of events I experienced, some fortunate, others unfortunate. This year I am feeling 52 years old.

A friend has reminded me that this is a transition year for me. No wonder I am feeling my age. It takes energy to transition!  I am experiencing many endings and many new beginnings.

In April, I left my job as a financial advisor’s assistant to assist my husband in his own business. This has created a new and, mostly, exciting lifestyle for us. With this decision comes an opportunity for me to redefine myself and explore new interests. (Which is how I wound up with my own blog.)

Buddy and Princess celebrating Buddy’s Grad – All grown up!

In May, my son, Buddy, graduated from university with his business degree. In August, my daughter, Princess, the baby, turned 20. Now I watch as Buddy leaves for work each day in necktie and dress shoes, and I taxi Princess to and from the airport as she jets to Montreal on her days off from university. The kids were raised to be independent, functioning members of society. Although this was the plan all along, it is a bittersweet realization that my kids are young adults now. They appreciate me but they don’t need me to get through their day. Officially, the teen years have ended. Now I regard my kids with a sense of pride, as they move towards the people they’re meant to be. They have started along their own paths while I stand back and encourage.

This year I lost both of my parents, Dad in June and Mom in July. I am one in a family of four daughters, fondly known as the 4Ks, and third in the birth order. My birthday is the first to be celebrated without our Mom and Dad.

Dad on his rock in the Kootenays

We started my special day, together, by attending K1’s church for a service dedicated to our father. As far as church services go, I’ve attended many more inspirational, but when Dad’s name was mentioned in prayers, there was a moment for pause and tears were shed. For us, it was further bonding in the grief we are each experiencing since our loss. I found it a comfort to be in fellowship with others who believe, as Dad, in everlasting life.

Mom at one of her own birthday lunches.

After the service, we gathered for our traditional lunch that was organized by K2. My family has a history of “sisterhood” and only girls attend our celebratory birthday lunches. It all started long ago with just the 4Ks and Mom but as each of our daughters matured, they were admitted to our special club. We all love it. This year we were missing K4 and her daughter, who have moved to California. And Mom.

This year I say “good-bye” to the “happy birthday” phone call from Dad the day after my celebrations (he had somehow started linking my birthday to Halloween) and Mom would not take her seat amongst her girls, beaming with joy at having us all to herself for a few hours.

But in sharing this day, we feel grateful. Neither Dad nor Mom suffered through a lengthy illness. We had loving parents, who offered each of us a good life.  We are more thankful for each other than ever before. We can still order two desserts with 6 forks and enjoy every bite. Our new beginnings have commenced.

Can’t decide? Have both!

It has been quite a year. There have been celebrations and toasts to achievements. There has been time to reflect and time to cope.  There has been excitement in discovering a new awareness and possibilities for myself. Adjustments have made with joy and reluctance. I recognize, but am unprepared for, the new gaping space in my life. I am searching for a rudder to steer me through to a new normal.  Endings and beginnings.

So, I am feeling each and every one of my 52 years. But, by this time next year, I am sure I will have transitioned to my regular, 48 year-old self.

As a mother of two grown children, I am transitioning through the empty nest and embracing my writing life. My desire is to connect family by sharing legacy stories and my hope is that I inspire you to do the same. Together with my children, we venture into new lives, full of optimism and excitement!

2 Comments

  • morriss59

    Wow, your life sounds so much like mine at the moment! First of all – a belated happy birthday! (I will turn 52 this Wednesday, Nov. 16, I just left my job as well, and now work as my husband’s assistant for his home-based financial planning business! Also, I lost both my parents within a year of each other (thought it’s been 20 and 21 years now), so I know exactly what you’re experiencing as you celebrate your first birthday without them. I felt like an orphan in the world. Plus, 2 of our 3 daughters recently moved out of state, taking 4 of our 5 grandkids with them, so I have been depressed as I ponder what my purpose in life is now. It makes me extremely sad knowing I won’t get to attend school plays, bake Christmas cookies with the kids, share birthdays, etc. On the up side, my husband and I have been enjoying spending more time together and look forward to trips to visit the kids. And though Skyping just isn’t the same as a real hug, I guess we should be grateful for this miracle technology. I’m trying to stay positive and think of this as an opportunity for me to discover new things about myself. Good luck to you and best wishes for happy new adventures!

    • My Life After Kids (Kathi)

      Thank you for the contact. It is comforting to know there is someone in the world who understands my situation. Aren’t you too young to be a grandma? Happy 52nd birthday to you on Wednesday and I wish you all the best as you get reacquainted with your husband!

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