Boomerang Kids, Part 4: When a Rhythm is Found

All in all, I've been just ok with having two daughters move back into the nest. It was a rude awakening at first and ground rules were broken almost from the first week that the first daughter moved back.

However, a rhythm can be found and, once that happens, life does get happier. Be forewarned, it takes time. We are in our second year and the rhythm is still less than 8 months old. It's not that I am getting my way so everyone is more relaxed. Because I'm not. I still have to let things go. But I don't mind so much now that the first one back (DoodleBug) and I have found a rhythm.

It was heading in that general direction but the rhythmic pattern picked up great speeds once the second daughter moved back in 4 months ago.

Now, I'm not the only one who washes dishes. I'm not hauling in the groceries all by myself (well, not every time). On some of the days that DoodleBug doesn't work, I have walked into a house that has been straightened up and vacuumed. If things are left out, I'm not the only one putting them away. I am not in the tidy boat all alone anymore.

And that is HUGE. It takes my stress level WAY down. While I don't like having to let things go, I find that even doing that is easier just knowing that one other person in the house 'gets it' and has stepped up to the plate.

No, it's not all fun and games. I am still the person who likes to have a clean house. I don't mind the ocassional clutter, but dirty and I are mortal enemies. So, entering their rooms to collect dirty dishes brings on an actual panic attack. Their dad has to go in and get the dirty dishes, cups and utentsils and the trash. But findng the rhythm is still helpful.

The solution is going to be hiring a maid. I'm just going to have to do this because I care about my health enough to not have panic attacks. And, truthfully, I think this will keep us headed in the direction of less stress. Maybe even harmony. Which will be nice.

So, yes, having boomerang kids is not easy. But a rhythm will be found and you will, at least, be able to enjoy some of the parts of having them living with you. Again. And that rhythm will also help you to fully enjoy the parts that are most fun- the laughing, watching movies together, talking, learning who your kids are as adults...

Boomerang kids are not the easiest adjustments. But they certainly are worth the effort.