From a Full House to Full Hearts
RM Home Specialists • March 31, 2025
Embracing the Next Chapter: Finding Joy in a Quieter Home
For 19 years, our home was filled with the joyful chaos of raising twin daughters. From school activities to teenage drama, from meals squeezed in between their packed schedules to late-night chats, our lives revolved around them. And now? The house is quieter.
Our daughters are off at Oregon State University, starting their next chapter, and my husband Mike and I find ourselves in a phase of life that feels both unfamiliar and exciting. I know many people call this "empty nesting," but that phrase has never quite resonated with me. It makes it sound like something is missing when in reality, this is an opportunity to rediscover ourselves and each other.
Reconnecting and Rediscovering
With fewer schedules to juggle and less noise in the house, Mike and I have found more time to focus on things we enjoy—together. We've started taking dance lessons, learning salsa, and swing, and stepping (sometimes literally) outside our comfort zones. We joined HOTWORX gym, prioritizing our health in ways we never quite had time for before. And, perhaps best of all, we've been going out to dinner more, savoring uninterrupted conversations and rediscovering the ease of just enjoying each other's company.
It feels like we’re dating again, but we have 24 years (almost 25!) of shared experiences behind us. There’s something special about laughing over dinner, challenging each other in a workout, or stumbling through a new dance move together. It’s a reminder that this next phase isn’t about loss—it’s about growth.
Breathing Easier
Of course, we still miss our girls, and there were emotional moments when we first dropped them off at college. But seeing them adjust, make friends, and embrace their new independence has given us peace of mind. When they’re thriving, it makes it easier for us to embrace this new season in our lives.
So, instead of calling this "empty nesting," I see it as an opportunity—a time to reflect, recharge, and rekindle. Life isn't slowing down; it’s just shifting, and we’re learning to dance right along with it.
-Kressent
Kressent Marston
RM Home Specialists | Realtor®
Windermere West Campus
STORIES FROM HOME
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Although we’ve purchased homes before, their continual updates, thoughtful explanations, and steady, patient support made us feel genuinely cared for.
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Your beautifully curated list of what’s worth eating, seeing + doing around Washington. Jen is one of those people who creates the vibe. She married into a family my husband and I have known for a long time, and over the years I’ve seen just how thoughtful and intentional she is. She lives in the cutest Craftsman in Central Tacoma, hosts the warmest gingerbread competition Christmas party, and her wedding week in the San Juan Islands was one of the most beautiful celebrations. She has an eye for the details that make something feel special. So it makes perfect sense that she’s completely immersed herself in the local scene with @eatinwashington . I love knowing what’s new, fun, and delicious around here. But with two kids, it’s nearly impossible to actually keep up with all of it. Jen does the heavy lifting for us. Through her lens, Eat in Washington has become a beautifully curated highlight reel of Washington’s must-eat, must-see and must-do. The new restaurant worth making a reservation for. The coffee shop you haven’t tried. A special dinner happening for one weekend. A day trip, market or stay that deserves a spot on your list. And because Jen herself is so intentional, her recommendations feel intentional too. She notices more than whether the food is good. It’s the space, service, story, lighting, people, and all the little details that create an experience. We asked Jen to give us the list.
Multigenerational Living Meets a Dream Backyard in Lakewood. There are homes with extra square footage—and then there are homes where that square footage actually gives you options. At 11409 Cloverdale Court SW in Lakewood , more than 4,100 square feet creates the kind of flexibility that is getting harder to find: room to live together without necessarily living on top of each other. And that matters because the way people use their homes is changing.
For the person who loves a moment, a beautiful table, and bringing people together— but maybe doesn’t want an entire closet dedicated to candlesticks and vintage glassware.
