Hi nottrustin, Nothing in your post sound stupid. Every word tells of the pain you're feeling right now. I was very happy with my job as a stay-at-home-mom, then my children went to college. My daughter lived at home while in college, but my son lived in a different city. The day my husband and I took our son to college and left him at his own apartment was one of the hardest days I have ever lived through. Don't get me wrong - I was immensely proud of my son! But having him suddenly move out...such a painful experience for me. NOTHING was ever the same again. Both of my kids graduated from college a few years ago; my daughter is happily married and my son has an excellent position in another city. They're doing very well...me...I'm still struggling with empty-nest. I still dread the long, lonely days and the times I most cherish are when I spend time with my children.

I wish I could wave a magic wand and make your pain feel better. All I can tell you is to be proud, because your daughter is doing a great thing by going off to college. And it is true that you will share her excitement over her achievements, and you will be as close as ever, just in a slightly different way.