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Our Your Empty Nest Experts

Claudia Arp

Claudia Arp

Co-founder of Marriage Alive International

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Natalie Caine

Natalie Caine

Therapist, coach and author

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Dr. Ellen Neiley Ritter

Founder of Family Transitions Coaching

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News

The latest news on this change — carefully culled from the world wide web by our change agents. They do the surfing, so you don't have to!

Common Cause

Common Cause

You and your spouse have finally accepted the fact that your youngest child has moved on. Then it hits you as you take stock of your empty nest: It's. Just. The. Two. Of. You. How will this new situation affect your marriage?

Even though they've survived many ups and downs, some husbands and wives still worry that they'll wake up one day and realize that they've grown apart. But that's just a myth, according to this TODAY segment. In it, Good Housekeeping editor-in-chief Rosemary Ellis points out the fact that most happy twosomes actually have very little in common—for example, one may be into crafting while the other loves sports. The key is that they find ways to enjoy themselves together, such as knitting on the couch while the other watches a game on TV.

To ensure you grow and change together, experts advise checking in regularly with your spouse so that you feel involved in each other's lives. Have you done this recently? Is there something that you wish your spouse understood better about you? Go on, tell them! It can really help improve your relationship and increase the peace at home.

Posted: 5/14/08
Frances

I'm finding myself becoming very frustrated with the relationship
and empty nest change tips.
My husband died suddenly 22 months ago.
Since then three of my five children have married, one has become engaged and two grandchildren have been born.
We were together for 40 years, since I was 19.
I went from being a daughter to being a wife, mother and grandmother.
I am not at all interested in another intimate relationship but I do want to have a great relationship with my children and extended family.
Any suggestions about how to do the "unexpected widow " thing?

  • By Frances
  • on 5/24/08 5:16 AM EST