My kids were three years apart. On the day my youngest started pre-school, it was the first time in six years that I had a few hours completely to myself. Husband at work, one child in 1st grade and one in pre-school. Empty nest syndrome? NO!
I had to get something at K-Mart that day. The minute I got out of the car, I realized that for the first time in years, I was alone. No little hands to hold as I walked through the parking lot. I could have done cartwheels!
Inside the store there was no worry that they would pick up something and damage it. I spent the whole time looking at books and glass curios. It was a piece of heaven. I'm not sure if I ever got what I was shopping for!