Category Archives: adult children
Clearing Out Clutter
It may be a function of getting older, but I’m more ready than ever for less excess and more simplicity. Of course, part of the reason is that we recently moved into a smaller condo. But now that I’m 70, it’s time to take stock. Perhaps you too want your mantra to be less is more. But why does that persistent inner voice still encourage us to hold on? Sentimental feelings – You may still feel attached to the handmade cards and pasta necklaces your children or even grandchildren have … Continue reading
The Clintons and Charlotte: Baby Boomers and Grandbabies
Chelsea Clinton, 34 and Marc Mezvinsky, 36 were married in 2010. And last week she gave birth to their daughter Charlotte, thrilling first-time grandparents Hillary and Bill. Delaying parenthood has become more common. The National Center for Health Statistics reported that between 1980 and 2004, the number of women giving birth at age 30 doubled and at age 35, tripled. Reasons to put off having children run the gamut from nurturing a career to coping with a challenging economy. Millennials today are focused on pressing issues like underemployment, huge student … Continue reading
Joan and Melissa: Mother/Daughter Bonds
As a daughter, mother and therapist, I can attest to the complexity of these relationships. To some, an extremely close relationship represents bonding, to others enmeshment. According to the media, Joan and Melissa Rivers were not afraid to act out the drama between a mom expecting to have a lot of control and a daughter trying to set some limits. Melissa recalls an argument when she tells her mother that she’s an adult and wants to be respected. And Joan’s retort? “I know about your boundaries and choose not to acknowledge … Continue reading
Posted in adult children, parenting kids, stress, well-being
Tagged daughters, family bonds, individuation, Joan Rivers, Melissa Rivers, mothers, relationships, role model, supportive, teens, trust
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Our Millennials and Transition
Life is not linear–it loops around and repeats itself. And when the past presents again, it inspires us to learn more about what to do next. Take Millennials, for example. Some leave home more than once, going back and forth, with small steps each time. Practice makes perfect. And these cumulative experiences prepare them for the ultimate transition into adulthood. At some level, summer camp is the first step toward greater autonomy. Because our kids’ leave-taking is only temporary, we welcome the break from our daily routine. But we know … Continue reading
