I have been a single mom for eight years. I never have been lonely during all that time. I have a few friends and that is enough.

This past weekend my son spent two days with friends at their house. He visits infrequently with his friends and this didn't seem anything different but when he was gone I was lonely for him to come home. For the rest of this week I have been lonely when he is sleeping late and anxious for him to awaken.

I don't want to be like my mom who is codependent on her two forty y/o daughters who live with her. I want my son to grow up and have his own life and I thought I was ready to let him fly (one more year of school) but I am surprised at my feelings and not quite sure what to think.

I didn't think I would have empty nest syndrome but I may be wrong. I don't want a long term relationship with a man since I was battered so I know I am going to be alone alot.

Has anybody had something similar?