Hello. I've been reading this forum for a week or two and finally decided to register.

I'm a 43 yo stay-at-home mom. I live in Arkansas. I have found that I am unique among most women I know, in that I had my children so young (20 is not that young in terms of childbearing), that I am now entering that sandwich generation as a younger mom. None of my friends are, yet, even the ones who are much older and have much younger kids.

My eldest child is 23 and serving in Iraq (holding my breath until he returns in December!). His wife gave birth this year to my first grandchild.

My middle child is 20 and out on his own, living with his girlfriend.

My youngest child is 12 and he's still home with me. We live an unschooling lifestyle (honest, open-minded inquiries are much appreciated--flamers will be ignored) and we have a very fun and active life.

We (husband, son and I) recently moved to be nearer my parents, who are divorced, but live in the same area. My dad has needed some help with some injuries, but he's still very active. My mother and I have issues, but her health could be better, so I'm anticipating more of her care for me in the future (not to borrow trouble).

Because I'm in between in many ways, many of my friends just can't relate. Because of unschooling, I associate with lots of women with younger children, but not many who are near-empty nest. All too soon my unschooled child will be on his own, as well, so I am looking forward to the independence that the end of childrearing brings. What I'm going to do with my time, how I'm going to work the grandchild into my life, the travel and learning that I've always done.

Very few women around me in the same situation. So, I'm glad to have found this board...maybe at least I can have online conversations that don't include potty-training or learning to share!

What really got me searching for more online support was recent happenings with my daughter-in-law. I have found being a mother-in-law is one of the most maligned roles a woman plays, and it's not ALWAYS her fault. I'm not innocent, but am unintentioned and I'm willing to learn. Unfortunately, most of the rest of the world is so down on the mil cliche, I have had a hard time of it. I'm hoping to be one little light of MIL happiness, and that's one reason I'm here.

So, happy day to all. Looking forward to reading more.

NMY