Letting Go in the Kitchen: My Journey to Embracing Empty Nest Life

Food Is My Love Language

As we prepare for our youngest child to leave for college, I’ve come to realize something about myself: food is my love language. In the days leading up to his departure, I feel an overwhelming need to feed him. It’s almost comical—and deeply telling. Somewhere in the depths of my subconscious, I’m reflecting on my unconditional love for him, all the “proud mama” moments, and the little boy who has grown into a man. And it all funnels into this one instinct: “I need to feed you before you go.” Now I understand—this is how I express love to the people who matter most to me.

Both my boys (and probably my husband too) hear me announcing what’s for dinner throughout the day. A couple of times a week, I try to make hearty “man meals,” packed with protein, fiber, carbs, and lots of gooey love. I often don’t eat those meals myself, so I end up cooking twice—something for them, something for me—or I make the hard choice of who gets the leftovers and who gets the fresh plate.

We’re just two weeks away from launch day, and I’m cooking like a woman possessed. Short-order cook in the morning, five-star chef in the evening. My son has even said he can’t keep up with all the food—“Too much, Mom!” But deep down, I know what’s really going on: I’m going to miss him. So I shower him with food.

Maybe it’s my subconscious way of stocking him up, as if I can feed him enough now to last the whole school year. Or maybe it’s my attempt to leave him with a strong foundation—healthy eating habits that begin at home. Whatever the reason, I do know this: making a meal for my boys brings me joy like nothing else. I love the planning, the shopping, the preparing. The time I spend in the kitchen grounds me—it’s where I find my rhythm and connect with the world. And when I see their faces light up as they dig into the meal du jour, I am fulfilled. That look of satisfaction—that moment of joy—is everything.

Finding New Culinary Adventures

With my children off pursuing their dreams, I had the freedom to explore new culinary horizons. I enrolled in an Ayurveda Practitioner program. I love food. I love education. And I love the idea of connecting people to health through education and nourishing food.

According to a survey, 72% of people feel a stronger sense of belonging when they share meals, which reinforced my belief that while my children may have left home, I wasn't alone in my culinary journey. I still can share recipes and health providing meals with my community. My husband, Dan, and I are entering a new chapter. He’s told me he’s ready to try plant-based eating with me. Hmm…what does that mean? More test meals? More experiments? Perhaps. What I know for sure is that the kitchen is my sanctuary. And everyone connected to the More than Meals community will continue to benefit from my love of food.

A warm and inviting kitchen filled with the aroma of home-cooked meals

Embracing New Beginnings

Becoming an empty nester is indeed an art, and letting go is a crucial part of that process. My kitchen has transformed from a bustling family hub into a space of creativity and self-discovery. By embracing the silence, simplifying my cooking space, reconnecting with old favorites, and seeking new culinary adventures, I am learning to let go and embrace this new chapter in my life.

For all parents facing the empty nest, remember that this transition is not an end but a beautiful beginning. Your kitchen can still be a place of joy, creativity, and connection—just in a different way. Embrace the art of letting go, and you might just discover that the best is yet to come.