I was the same way when my kids were growing up, even before I went to nursing school and then started working. Just was never much of a 'joiner' except during periods of what I now recognize as elevated moods, and that's when I'd take on too much and then be unable to fulfill the obligations I'd signed on for. Talk about feeling guilty!

Truly, it is healthy NOT to be one of those women who "do it all". Yes, they have more to brag about, but in 20 years they'll be totally used up and you'll still have some energy left to do what you want.

I know. I've seen it happen to many of my friends since all our kids have been grown and gone. That empty-nest syndrome really gets 'em....it's like their entire lives revolved around children and home, and now that this part of their lives is over, they don't know what to do with themselves. Some have managed to find new interests, but others are just wandering around aimlessly, not having the foggiest idea of what to do now that their PTA, room-mother, community-organizer, wedding-planner days are over.