Turning

On Monday I leave for Arizona. When I return, we begin sharing our home with my parents for what I imagine will include the remainder of their days. I look forward to daily, casual contact with these two people I love. I have not lived at home beyond summer breaks since leaving for Whittier College in September of 1991. Then, I moved east for graduate school, and stayed. I have longed for the pattern of weekly or monthly interactions with my mom that I have enjoyed with my Maryland-based in-laws: holidays together, dropping by, helping with kids, meeting up for a play or meal, birthdays, craft days, sports games, doctor appointment rides. I’ve wanted that with my parents for a long time. I’m not sure that I imagined them living in our home, and yet, here they come! I’ll have all the interaction I’ve been craving right here at home. 24/7.