Empty Nest Syndrome and the Need for a New Chapter
The day my children left home for their own adventures was a bittersweet moment—a mix of pride, loss, and excitement for the next chapter of my life, excitement tinged with nostalgia. What I didn’t expect was for all three of them to leave at once. My second and third kids headed off to college, and my eldest stepped into the career he’d worked so hard for. Typically, parents send their kids off one by one, but life has a way of shaking up expectations. God reminds us that our journeys won’t look like everyone else’s—and that’s more than okay. In fact, it’s what makes life vibrant and interesting. It’s a reminder to keep my eyes on Him, trusting that He’ll guide me through the unexpected twists.
When one of my children faced a health scare and briefly came back home, I was reminded of how fleeting this season is. Yet, even with that brief return, the house—once filled with laughter and energy—felt overwhelmingly quiet when it was just my husband and me. I’m so thrilled to see my kids spread their wings, but I can’t help but miss the everyday moments that made our house feel full.
In the midst of this change, I realized I was yearning for deeper connections—and that’s when I started searching for my "furever" baby. After three long years of waiting, I finally found her: Ki-Lani, a sweet, playful kitten whose name means "Heavenly Royalty" or "Royal Tea" in Hawaiian. She’s already stolen my heart. Ki-Lani’s playful spirit has breathed life back into our home, filling the spaces my kids once occupied.
Naming our pets has always been a family tradition—tea, coffee, and everything in between. It’s a small but meaningful way for us to stay connected, even as our paths diverge. Ki-Lani feels like a blessing from God, a source of comfort and joy exactly when I needed it most. My husband agrees—she’s truly the heart of our home.
As I navigate this season of change, both in life and as an artist, I’m continually reminded of God’s constant faithfulness. Through the shifts, the unknowns, and the quiet moments, I keep my eyes on Jesus, trusting Him as my strength, my refuge. He’s the reason I create, and I know He’s guiding me through every step of this journey. Whatever the next season holds, I rest in His grace. “The Lord your God is with you, He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.” (Zephaniah 3:17)
This transition has not only changed my personal life—it’s influencing my art as well. Just as I’ve had to adapt to a quieter home, I’m learning to embrace the stillness in my work. In the quiet moments with Ki-Lani, I’ve found fresh inspiration and new ways of seeing the world. She brings life to my studio as my loyal companion, a little sidekick with her black mask and calico superhero cape. Art, like life, is about trust and letting go. It’s about stepping into the unknown and being open to the process.
If you’re navigating your own season of change—whether it’s an empty nest or another life transition—I’d love to hear how you’re embracing it. How has your faith shaped your journey? Let’s walk this road together, knowing that God is with us every step of the way.
Happy Painting!
Amy
