One flies the nest

My wife and I drove to Bloomington a couple Saturdays ago to see my older son, who had just moved into his first apartment.

It was a milestone day. My goal for my sons all along has been for them to begin independent lives of their choosing. They have owned their choices and through them appear to be seeking meaning, connection, and happiness.

And here’s my firstborn, working a job with a future in an industry of his choosing, settling into his first home.

My son and I share a common trait: home is very important to us. We spend a lot of time there and we want to make it reflect the best of who we are. I look forward to seeing what he makes of his home.

Here’s a photo of me in my first apartment. I was so happy there. I had real life challenges to figure out, and I was frequently not happy with my life overall. So it goes for pretty much everyone. But I knew that I could go home and recenter myself and just enjoy my time. Whenever I haven’t had a home like that, my mental health has suffered.

Read the story of my first apartment, and how I grew into adulthood in it, here.

At home in 1992

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Comments

9 responses to “One flies the nest”

  1. J P Avatar

    This is one of the most enjoyable parts of this phase of life, watching a kid find his/her place in the world.

    1. Jim Grey Avatar

      I’m sure I’ll always worry over my kids but it sure seems like this one is well on his way. It really is a joy!

  2. dougd Avatar
    dougd

    That’s awesome, the first place I ever had of my own was a tiny tourist cabin for a summer job. The feeling was incredible.
    Congratulations to you and your son, a most satisfying development.

    1. Jim Grey Avatar

      It is most satisfying! My goal for them has always been to see them step into good independent adult lives and the first one has done it.

  3. Sam Avatar

    Cool dude! I remember 92 like it was yesterday. Good luck on your son’s endeavors!

    1. Jim Grey Avatar

      I’ve been through so much since 1992 that I look at that photo of me and wish I could go give that fellow some advice!

  4. Photobooth Journal Avatar

    Very best wishes to the exciting journey your son has embarked upon, Jim!

    1. Photobooth Journal Avatar

      . . . for the exciting journey, I meant. 🙄

    2. Jim Grey Avatar

      Thank you! Life offers many ups and downs, but I think he is off to a very good start.

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