Book Beat – Empty Nest by Marci Seither

It happened so fast. One minute I was wrapping my baby boy in a blue blanket and bringing him home – and the next minute I was hauling all his possessions into a cramped dorm room. Now he’s graduating from college. And interviewing for Big Jobs. And he has a beard.

For so many women, our girlhood dream was to become a mommy. Then we were blessed with children. Those mommy years have been delightful (and frustrating and insane!). But motherhood is the only profession I know whose sole purpose is to put ourselves out of a job. We want our children to grow up and live productive and independent lives. Yet when the children begin to leave – a huge life transition for them – it also alters family dynamics and can leave moms feeling bereft of purpose.

Over the past few years, I’ve struggled with allowing my children to make their own decisions and their own mistakes, and to learn to trust that God’s plans are ALWAYS better than my plans. I’ve felt that deep chest ache when I pass my son’s silent room, knowing he’ll only be a visitor from now on. And I’ve felt that exhilarating joy watching him become an independent young man who honors God.

I know I’m not alone.

Marci Seither‘s new book, Empty Nest: Strategies to Help Your Kids Take Flight, came at a crucial time for me. Not only is our firstborn graduating from college, but our daughter just started college and a job, and our younger son is in high school. The Nest-Emptying is in process, challenging each member of the Sundin family.

Each chapter in Empty Nest addresses a unique aspect of the process – helping kids head to college or the military, tips for younger siblings at home, and tips for single moms and for couples. Marci Seither encourages us to choose faith over fear and to rediscover our significance as women – apart from the mommy role. The book is full of touching stories, humorous anecdotes, godly wisdom, and practical tips. This is a powerful book, full of compassion and encouragement for both mama birds and fledglings.

I highly recommend this book for moms whose nests are empty or emptying – and even for those with younger children. A major transition requires mental and spiritual preparation to handle well. Grandmas, this book would make a lovely Mother’s Day gift for daughters or daughters-in-law. This is a book that I’ll review over the years – not only for the wisdom and encouragement, but for Marci Seither’s delightful humor.