Q.
I'm recently engaged, 26 years old, with a masters degree and a great job. I still live at home and am having trouble "cutting the cord." I feel terrible guilt about moving out and leaving my parents. Please help me rationalize these emotions!
A.
The first emotion both of your parents will feel is happiness! They must be really proud and thrilled for you, and don't forget, they can relate -- they also got married and left their parents. That doesn't mean they won't miss you, and they might feel a little lonely right after you leave, but unless you're moving to Timbuktu, you will still see them, talk to them, and stay good, close friends. Plan some special outings with your mom before you leave, so she'll definitely know how much you care about her (it might also help you feel less guilty). Get manicures and facials together, take her out for a special dinner, and tell her how much you appreciate all that she's done for you. Have a good cry. Then enjoy your life with your hubby!
See More: Family & Parents , Basics for Moms
share your advice on this topic
Write your own tips and ideas to share with other Knotties.
Roz B
I am in the same boat! Well...a similar one anyway. I am 22 and I have just started working on my PhD. My fiance and I moved in together recetnly, but I feel so guilty and awkward telling people, or even going home to see my parents! I am pretty sure everyone I know thinks I am "living in sin" and that's something I really don't need to be dealing with. I think this is a feeling that passes in time though. Everyone grows up eventually...
abk21
I've been living on my own for four years and my mom still misses me. But I make sure I call her at least twice a week to let her know I'm doing ok. No matter how old you are, you're still their little girl.