I honestly thought I would lose my mind when my youngest two sons flew the coop several years ago now. I alphabetized the canned goods in my pantry, cleaned my house obsessively, and spent ever more hours at work rather than stay at home in my empty nest! I was diagnosed with clinical depression, and medication has helped. My husband's reaction was much less intense and he handled it well. Grandchildren have helped, sure, and I have discovered new things that interest me and above all, learned how to enjoy being with myself, alone. Now, I have been retired for three years, and my husband is moving into semi-retirement (he's self employed.) This is a more gradual change but just as much a shock to the system! Like Deb and Bill above, I love him dearly but bless his man cave and giant screen TV! I now have a hard time accomplishing anything when he's in and out all the time but I'm working on it. What I do love is the independence now - we do what we want at the drop of a hat, and sometimes forget to tell our children that we'll be gone. I think I am mostly at peace now with the way things are, and I can tell you, it DOES get better, it just takes time!