I became an "empty- nester" about 10 years ago when I moved into my first apartment, solo. At first, it was exciting; my schedule was quiet or loud, and there was no fighting over what music to listen to or what movies to watch (and I must admit that I really enjoyed watching the movies my son deemed trash). It was just me and my cat. This state of bliss lasted for several weeks, and then I slowly realized that I was lonely and worried about how my kids were faring without their mother to ensure they were fed, clean, and rested. I started talking to myself, and I couldn't blame the cat. It took a long time to adjust to being one and to let my kids grow and employ the lessons I had been trying to impart to them all their lives. I think the hardest thing we…