1. Take a class or two at a local college. A second language, business practices, art instruction, or even learning about the depleting environment can give you a new sense of fulfillment.

2. Join a book club. Instead of reading alone, share your insights and read into the deeper meanings of a novel by sitting around and talking with new companions.

3. Scout out local volunteer work. Volunteer at the hospital for two days a week, plant flowers at an establishment in need, or work for a local politician or a woman’s voting league.

4. Get into yoga. The hottest workout craze seems to be everlasting; everyone’s doing yoga these days and you can, too. Buy a yoga mat and hit the gym!

5. Take that dream vacation. Plan a fabulous vacation with your spouse or with a friend; the preparations, shopping, and beauty treatments for an exciting vacation are almost as fun as the vacation itself!

6. Get a new hairstyle. You can never feel more fresh and alive than when you look in the mirror and see your hair doing things you never thought possible. Take a trip into your city and visit a hair salon that is famous for great hairstyling.

7. Get a new wardrobe. Styles are ever changing with time and a hip new handbag, pair of shoes, or piece of costume jewelry can make your wardrobe appear to pop straight out of Vogue.

8. Learn to knit. Move over Granny, knitting has become the trendiest hobby to hit mothers and daughters across the nation. Knit alone, in a knitting club, or with your daughter, and create pieces that you would pay hundreds of dollars for in stores.

9. Buy a Sudoko book. This addictive mind puzzle will keep you busy wherever you go. In a doctor’s office, on a plane ride, in bed with a cup of tea, or lounging with friends, this game is so addictive that it may even infringe on other activities you would normally enjoy!

10. Build a business like Barrie Smith did for MOFchat.com. Now that your child is away at college, you have all the time in the world to show what you are truly made of. Have an idea? Go for it! You’re looking directly at the creation of an empty nester like yourself.