Comments on: The Happiness Report #44

By: Mary Brice

Mary Brice — Sat, 08 Dec 2018 06:41:31 +0000

This looks like so much fun! I had a party for my kids as well, but it wasn’t as cool!

By: concrete yuma az

concrete yuma az — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 18:23:09 +0000

Hi Kristen. I’ve been with the same struggle 2 years ago when my only kid went to college. It’s really hard at first but I guess that’s all we are destined for. But I am always here for my son whenever he needs me though he often forgets me. Life’s hard that’s why it’s always good to have friends you can connect. Good that you have this blog, you can vent out.

By: bridget {bake at 350}

bridget {bake at 350} — Wed, 24 Oct 2018 23:22:28 +0000

Grab up that family time when you can...be greedy! ;) Invite his friends/girlfriend to YOUR house for dinner/to hang out. I disagree with the comment above that teenagers don't want to be with their families. I think if that's what we put out there, that's what we'll get. Certainly, they're more independent and have more activities and freedom, but they need some "home time," too. I made a point to volunteer at his high school a lot...I loved the school and bonus...I got to see a lot of Jack and his friends. I know it's harder with a long sports season, though. Don't give up! Enjoy it all!!!

By: Kristen

Kristen — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 20:57:13 +0000

In reply to Peabody Jennifer Johanson.

You make perfect sense – and I agree. I’m so happy he’s happy. I just wish we could have some of the same traditions as we used to. My girls miss having him around too and it’s just not the same doing things like that without him.
Hahaha – dogs do not ask for money, that is true, but they might be more expensive than my kids 😉 hehe

By: Peabody Jennifer Johanson

Peabody Jennifer Johanson — Tue, 23 Oct 2018 00:07:43 +0000

If your child has friends, a job, he’s active, and has girlfriends! Be proud. It’ healthy and how it should be.
No sixteen year old wants to hang with the family or siblings. It’s just how life is.
You would be more upset if your child sat around all the time being a mama’s boy with no friends.

Once they learn to drive they pretty much disappear. 🙂

The whole point of having kids it to raise them to be functioning adults. Sounds like that is what is going on.

We see Jason’s kids physically only a few times a year. Does he wish it was more? Absolutely. But they are almost 21, they don’t want to hang with parents. I certainly didn’t at age 20. Or 16.

In fact, it really wasn’t until my late 20’s that I wanted to hang at all with my parents.

I think it’s extra hard for parents of this generation of kids because we made them the center of everything. I think my parents had a much easier transition than today’s parents because they never made us the center of their lives. They were the center of their lives. Then us. And honestly, I think that is how it should be.

My suggestion…get more dogs. 🙂 They love you and always want to spend time with you. And never ask for money. 😀

By: Kristen

Kristen — Mon, 22 Oct 2018 18:33:20 +0000

In reply to Aimee Shugarman.

I’m glad to know that Junior year angst is not abnormal. I feel it so hard…he still probably can’t even make boxed mac and cheese on his own. I have a LOT of work to do!
But seriously, thank you – I know you’ve been through all of this multiple times (and even sending one WAY away), so it’s always nice to hear the perspective of someone who has been there. I appreciate it, friend! Thanks for the words of wisdom.

By: Kristen

Kristen — Mon, 22 Oct 2018 18:31:57 +0000

In reply to Leslie Green. Right? It's so hard, Leslie! Once they can drive (or have friends who do) the amount that they need you is cut down tremendously. At least our cats won't ever leave us for better things. ;)

By: Kristen

Kristen — Mon, 22 Oct 2018 18:30:55 +0000

In reply to Nancy Buchanan.

Well your comment just made me flat out cry. Thank you for the perspective shift. You are so right. Someone else responded to my email saying that I should be glad he’s happy – which he absolutely is. He enjoys school, has a good job, great friends, etc. I could have it so much worse. I think I just really miss him and how things used to be, but you are so right…there is a time for change and more changes to come. I guess I’d better hold on and get ready!
Thank you, friend, for sharing.