I loved your post for preparing me for the empty nest. I learn so much about what to expect emotionally and mentally in my solo parenting journey from the other women in the Be Braver Collective who are a bit ahead.
We have to travel at our own speed depending on what opportunities life presents to us don’t we?
Recognise that of course, we choose how we respond to what life offers.
Some aspects of my life may move slower than they might otherwise. But my choice is not for it to be otherwise. Because the moments, memories and meaning I find in our life together now, is everything. So I’m savouring every minute and will never have any regrets about my parenting role that’s one thing I’ve made an intentional commitment to.
Savouring! Yes! I know it sounds a little mad but I just didn't realise Charlie's childhood would come to an end—that one day, he would just fly the nest and that was it—all our rhythms and routines would just stop overnight. In the bun fight that is puberty/getting them through exams etc it's easy to forget to hold them. close. x
Such an uplifting story. You made me want to move up to Northumberland. But that's not practical, but I do need to seek out similar-minded people in my area. Maybe a Writing Fedtival. But all our bookshops have closed 😢 and we are very much a commuter village. Thinking cap on, I will keep the feeling you generated in me up. Thank you
Oh, thank you for this. I just went through a breakup that really hurt. (Wrote a piece I love about it on my substack called Pieces of a Heart!) I'm still balancing between misery and the kind of empty that breeds magic and big projects. I feel like I'm dipping my toes on each side. This gives me a lot of hope for when I finally swing both legs over.
This especially resonated, "It’s amazing what trying to escape misery and following the signs can achieve."
PS - any chance you're looking for help or volunteers for the festival? My background is actually in theatre and events and I'm now thinking a little pop over to the UK might be in order.
I already loved the sound of Alnwick Story Fest but now I love the story of how the idea was born in conversation in the restaurant that book launch night 😍
Really could relate to every part of this Suzy. Thanks so much for sharing your journey. Have a wonderful festival and wishing you a nourishing Christmas.
Oh, this resonates. I ended 2021 heartbroken and having to imagine a new future too. You are an inspiration, Suzy. I'm excited about what you're building and can't wait for the festival.
Such a beautiful story! Happy holidays. ❤️
I recognise a lot of this. My son is nowhere near university yet, but he isn’t with my this Christmas and I hate it so much.
Sending love x
Such a tough time to be without our kids. Sending love ❤️
I loved your post for preparing me for the empty nest. I learn so much about what to expect emotionally and mentally in my solo parenting journey from the other women in the Be Braver Collective who are a bit ahead.
It took me by surprise. Just enjoy every second with them now. ❤️
I totally do.
We have to travel at our own speed depending on what opportunities life presents to us don’t we?
Recognise that of course, we choose how we respond to what life offers.
Some aspects of my life may move slower than they might otherwise. But my choice is not for it to be otherwise. Because the moments, memories and meaning I find in our life together now, is everything. So I’m savouring every minute and will never have any regrets about my parenting role that’s one thing I’ve made an intentional commitment to.
Savouring! Yes! I know it sounds a little mad but I just didn't realise Charlie's childhood would come to an end—that one day, he would just fly the nest and that was it—all our rhythms and routines would just stop overnight. In the bun fight that is puberty/getting them through exams etc it's easy to forget to hold them. close. x
I love your story and I’d love to come to the festival- so many of my favourite writers - but the dates clash on two days ☹️
So sorry we will miss you - next year! 💕
I hope so
This is such an inspiring story, Suzy! I hope to be able to attend the festival one day 😊
It’s such a fun, brilliant festival - do come! ✨⭐️
come along!! I'm going to go in Feb xx
Unfortunately we’re away in Devon that week so maybe next year!
what a beautiful story thank you ❤️
Thank you! ✨
Such an uplifting story. You made me want to move up to Northumberland. But that's not practical, but I do need to seek out similar-minded people in my area. Maybe a Writing Fedtival. But all our bookshops have closed 😢 and we are very much a commuter village. Thinking cap on, I will keep the feeling you generated in me up. Thank you
Move to Northumberland! ❤️
Oh, thank you for this. I just went through a breakup that really hurt. (Wrote a piece I love about it on my substack called Pieces of a Heart!) I'm still balancing between misery and the kind of empty that breeds magic and big projects. I feel like I'm dipping my toes on each side. This gives me a lot of hope for when I finally swing both legs over.
This especially resonated, "It’s amazing what trying to escape misery and following the signs can achieve."
Ah, Stephanie - sending huge hugs. Breaking. up just hurts so much. Muchlove. xx
PS - any chance you're looking for help or volunteers for the festival? My background is actually in theatre and events and I'm now thinking a little pop over to the UK might be in order.
Always can do with extra volunteers. https://alnwickstoryfest.com/volunteering
Where are you based?
NYC 😂 Looking into work logistics so we will see!
I was just in NYC this year. I wrote a post about it here.
https://heartleap.substack.com/p/your-darkest-hour
I already loved the sound of Alnwick Story Fest but now I love the story of how the idea was born in conversation in the restaurant that book launch night 😍
Really could relate to every part of this Suzy. Thanks so much for sharing your journey. Have a wonderful festival and wishing you a nourishing Christmas.
Happy Christmas Jackee! ❤️
Such a good post. Thank you.
Thank you Naren 💕
Oh, this resonates. I ended 2021 heartbroken and having to imagine a new future too. You are an inspiration, Suzy. I'm excited about what you're building and can't wait for the festival.
Heartbreaker is a f@&ker but we heal and move on. If only we knows that at the time. Much love Caroline
It is a total f&@ker but yes, you do heal and you do move on. x
Oh Suzy this is such a gorgeous story!! Lots of sprinkles of serendipity. So excited to be coming to the story fest in 2024 ❤️
Can’t wait to meet you in the flesh! Just started reading your book and love it. ❤️
Oh it arrived!!! Yaay!!! Much love and Merry Christmas ❤️🎄🙏
I'm impulsively now looking at flights! Just glanced at your stack (looking forward to reading more) and would love to meet up if I end up there!
yes, yes, yes, of course. xxx