The Unexpected Empty Nest Jobs

The picture of mom and dad becoming empty nesters is one fraught with clichés. Some of them have a basis in truth, but many are unrealistic in a life transition that is more complex—and often more enjoyable—than we may expect. Karen Stabiner is the editor of a new book called The Empty Nest: 31 Parents Tell the Truth About Relationships, Love, and Freedom After the Kids Fly the Coop. This interview tells of the surprises she encountered in gathering stories from moms and dads from all walks of life.