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Barbara and Susan's Guide to the Empty Nest (Revised & Updated) - by Barbara Rainey & Susan Yates



So, this particular book review carries a special kind of weight for me and hit me squarely between the eyes with it's subject matter. I am about to become an empty-nester and I have absolutely no idea how this can possibly be true. My times they are a-changing. And I don't know that I like the changing of the times, to be honest.

Barbara and Susan's Guide to the Empty Nest is easy to read, well thought out, informative and, if not exactly essential for a woman in my situation, then by all means a wise option as I wrap up my current season of life. After all, I have been a full-time homeschool mom for almost 25 years. I probably need to seek out some counsel as I prepare to transition to...well...to whatever is next for me.

The book has 12 chapters, divided into three sections, and includes an epilogue as well as four appendixes and a small group or book club study guide. Like I said, it's well thought out and informative. The chapters stay true to their intended topic, which is nice because when discussing something like the impending empty nest there is no room for filler, fluff or rabbit trailing. Women need a strong dose of encouragement that is smothered in reality, because THIS...IS...DIFFICULT. Please do not placate me, pat me on the head, and tell me it will all be fine if I just pick up a new hobby. I am thankful Barbara and Susan don't do that. They have lived it, and that makes this book very relateable.

The chapter I liked the most (notice I used the word "liked", not the word "enjoyed" - I don't enjoy much about any of this empty nest prep stuff) was Chapter 12, "Changing Your World". It truly gives Christian women something impactful to press on toward as they walk through this time of change. I am not nearly done living yet, and I want to do something that changes some aspect of my world for the better, for Jesus and His Kingdom. I think most of the moms I know want the same thing. This book is a great resource for any woman nearing the emptying of her nest.

Consider grabbing a copy as a gift for a woman you know, or maybe even do this as a short-term small group with women from your church. It's beneficial to walk through this time of transition with others who will pray for and with us along the way.

I am thankful these women wrote this book and shared from their hearts, because it has given me permission to grieve while it gives me permission to look forward with hope. Thanks for that, Barbara and Susan!

On my "Page Turner Scale" of 1 to 5, I gave this book a 5.

Disclaimer ~ I received this book free of charge for review purposes from Bethany House Publishers. All opinions shared here are solely my own. 


Day 350 done :)

Jan L. Burt
The Homeschooling Mother's Bible Study
All Things Homeschool
available on Amazon

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