I'm not sure if it's harder, when the first one leaves home. My oldest is in college, second one is out, third one still home, but hardly, cause he studies and works. At least for now he comes home for lunch and supper.

I'm not sure if I can say I was "getting ready" in my mind for this. Boys usually are not home as much as girls.
But I still miss them and long to see them and be able to help, etc.

I just try not to let it get me down.