From Full House to Quiet Halls: The Empty Nest Rollercoaster with Edie Melson

Life's transitions often challenge us to adapt and grow. The empty nest season is one such pivotal moment, bringing both anticipation and anxiety. In our latest Coffee Chat episode, we spoke with Edie Melson, an award-winning author and soul care expert, about her new book "Soul Care When the Nest Is Empty."

Parenting 2.0: Friendship is the New Black

Edie vividly describes the shift from being central to our children's lives to finding ourselves on the periphery. She emphasizes the importance of transitioning from a parenting role to a friendship role with adult children:

"This phase is about nurturing the roots we've established in our children while also allowing them the space to grow."

Gratitude: Your Secret Weapon Against the Blues

One key lesson Edie shares is the power of intentionally finding joy in this new season. She suggests starting a gratitude journal:

"Write down three things every day that you are grateful for. It can profoundly change your perspective."

Rekindling the Spark: Date Your Mate Again

The empty nest also presents an opportunity to reconnect with your spouse. Edie and her husband made deliberate efforts to rekindle their relationship, even revisiting their honeymoon destination.

When Life Throws a Curveball: Navigating Unexpected Challenges

Edie's journey took an unexpected turn when she lost her daughter-in-law, thrusting her back into a caregiving role. Through this, she learned valuable lessons about supporting adult children while respecting their autonomy.

Thriving in the New Normal

For those navigating or approaching this season, Edie's insights offer a comforting guide. Her book provides practical wisdom grounded in faith and personal growth.

As Edie beautifully puts it, "We've given our kids good, solid roots... and they will thrive, as will we."

Pause & Reflect Questions

1. How do you envision your relationship with your adult children evolving?

2. What new activities or hobbies might you explore in your empty nest phase?

3. How can you intentionally reconnect with your spouse during this transition?

4. In what ways can you find daily gratitude in this new season of life?

Want to hear more? Tune in to our full episode with Edie Melson!

Discover practical tips for embracing the empty nest, strategies for maintaining connections with adult children, and Edie's personal story of finding purpose in unexpected circumstances. Don't miss this heartwarming and insightful conversation!