Just because they've left doesn't mean they're gone

the long version

Dad and Mom, may I have a bike? May I borrow the car? May I store stuff in the attic when I move out? Can you love and accept this stranger I'm marrying? Will you loan us money for a down payment on a house? Can you babysit the grandkids this weekend? May I move back home with you for a while? with my kids?!!! You thought once they moved out of the house, it would be safe to get on with your life. You said to yourself, "My children are adults. They can take care of themselves, and I can go fishing." So why do the kids still call with problems, need money, want help and advice, even ask to move back home again after they've been on their own for 15 years! Welcome to the real world of parenting. Kids grow up, but they never stop being your kids. And in today's tough economy and changing times, families need each other more than ever. Kids still need Mom and Dad -- no matter how old they get. - Jacket.