General Discussion

through Discord and texting. It isn't like having them here, but it helps. I text them every morning and every evening (good morning, good night)....and occasional pictures of the pets. We've kept on for five years now, nearly every day and night. I also play D&D in an online group with my eldest son, so I talk to him at least once a week during the game.

If she has time, you can maybe set up a family online board game time...there are several platforms to play board games online over the internet and you could get some together time with a fun activity. (This one is free and has all kinds of games: https://en.boardgamearena.com/)

I think that keeping in touch has helped them to feel confident that we're always here if they need us. The two oldest ones (youngest is still in high school, lack of planning on our part) are independent and moving along in their lives, but they check in on a regular basis as well.

As to your partner....I'm "Mom" too and it still hurts not to see them here every day, but those texts and the quick responses mean a lot, knowing how busy they are. You get used to it....but it takes a while.

Wish you, and your daughter luck. She'll be fine and you'll adjust. I did.

ETA: We never forced the communication, but we've always been a very "do things together" family, so it is pretty natural. Middle son's girlfriend is now included in everything....they've been dating since high school.