Around this time of year as kids head off to college, many parents struggle with the same thing: Empty Nesting.
A lot of changes come with this concept of empty nesting. First, there is the emotional part. You will probably have the conflicting feelings of missing your child, but simultaneously enjoying a new found sense of freedom. Next, you will be faced with much more free time than you’ve had in years. Don’t feel threatened by all of this time, instead fill it with activities you’ve always wanted to do but never had time for—try all of the new local restaurants, pick up a new hobby or take a trip somewhere you’ve always dreamed about going to.
Finally, you should decide on what you want to do with the empty room(s). For some people it’s a no brainer. Leave the room exactly as it is so that your college-rookie kids have somewhere comfortable to come home to. For those of you who would like to transform the room, but are unsure what you want to use it for, here are some ideas:
- Gym – If you and/or your partner enjoy working out then a gym would be a perfect addition to the house. Clear out your child’s old room and fill it with exercise equipment. Bicycles, elliptical machines, and treadmills are excellent for cardio. Weights, medicine balls, and therapy exercise balls are great for basic toning. Depending upon how big the room is, you can also invest in other machinery that works specifically on upper or lower body. Once you get all of your equipment, consider purchasing a nice stereo or T.V. for entertainment while you exercise.
- Relaxation Room – Perhaps you want a tranquil and quiet room to relax and read in. If this sounds appealing to you, repaint the walls a soft and calming color, such as baby blue, lavender or a very light yellow. Purchase comfortable couches and chairs that are very cushioned. Take some time to search around for a wonderfully soft rug that feels great under your feet. If you want, get a stereo and a C.D. with relaxing sounds, such as a waterfall.
- Study/Library – Line the wall with bookshelves and stack them with books from around the house and other classics. Bring in two to three big leather chairs. Finally, complete the look by adding a large, antique- looking desk and chair.
- Entertainment Room – Invest in a large screen T.V. and a nice comfy leather couch. Add a pool table or a poker table complete with chips and a few decks of cards as well. If you so desire (and there’s still space), place a small bar in a corner of the room.
- “Interest” Room – If you or your partner has any major interest or hobby, consider dedicating this room in this theme. If you love to paint, bring your easel, paints and brushes into the room and use it when you feel like creating a masterpiece. If your spouse collects toy cars, use this room to put them on display. If one of you is interested in woodworking, turn this room into your workshop. This room is yours to do whatever you want with it, so think about your interests and see how you can put it to good use!
