If you want something done, ask a woman. If you want something done right now, ask a busy mom that's what I say!

First, you've had a challenging job that gets very little credit from society. Running a home is akin to running a small company when you think about it. Budgeting, conflict management, resource conservation, strategic planning and plenty of marketing come with the title of homemaker. Be proud.

Now, you have time to adapt your skills and test them in another arena: the workplace. Use the same creativity you showed with the kids to recast yourself and expertise to get a job that has meaning for you and growth.

I'm betting, without knowing, that your friends probably aren't as prepared for retirement as you think. And, research suggests that boomers like us are redefining work so that we kinda never retire.

And yes, many midlife couples find that the transition from parenthood to boomerhood (my term for being a boomer,empty nester)stresses their marriage to the breaking point. Talking and asking questions of yourself and your spouse is the best way I know (after 17 years as a mediator) to stay connected. That's what my group does.

You picked the perfect time to envision and plan your future. It may be scary so get some support and help.

Best wishes--
CuriousDina
This Marriage Thing Group
http://www.tbd.com