A lot of young men + women are starting {have started} college this week. This is a new + terrifyingly exciting chapter to open in their lives. But as a parent, things are digested differently. This week could mean the start to a new journey for them too, as an empty nester.

My baby brother moved to college today. My mom is a wreck. This has been her purpose for the last 20+ years of her life :: to meet the needs of her kids. She is questioning her existence + wondering what her new point will be. It's difficult to realize that we can reach this point {age} in our lives where moments feel shorter + chapters in our life breeze by.

So how do we maintain sanity in all of this transition? How do you slow down the moments that matter + pay attention to the relationships that matter in a world that is fast-forwarding constantly? Here are four tips to find help navigate the transition thoughtfully + intentionally ::

Communicate

Set up a way to communicate often + thoughtfully with your student. Find a system {email, phone calls, text messages} that allows you to build a thoughtful + consistent relationship, while maintainting boundaries that support his or her newfound independence away from home. Be creative.

Be spontaneous

Send care packages :: their favorite foods, personalized stationery or just a funny momento you found lying around the house. It's good to have familiar comforts of home in their new setting.

Plan Ahead

Plan a visit to their school or something special for when they're home on break. Concrete plans will give both you + your child something to look forward to + it will seemingly cut down on wait time between visits.

Try new things

Remember, you will always be a parent, that will never change. This is a lifetime job, it's just the job description that changes. Have fun with your newfound freedom. Learn something you're curious about. Read. Write. The opportunities are endless.