Today I left my son after a quick weekend visit. I happened to fly through LA on business and had a few hours to catch up with him. It was nice spending that time with him...I don't get to see him that often anymore. I like looking him in the eyes when we talk...I learn so much more than when we chat on the phone.

He has started his "adult" life now...a job, bills, and the other responsibilities that come with that title. As a parent it is always so hard to see your kids struggle. In their youth it is issues with bullies, schoolwork, sports, or peer relationships, the basic issues of growing up. Now that he is grown, it is about careers, success, financial stability, and his happiness. Like I said, I hate to see my kids struggle. If he is like I was at the same age, it didn't feel like struggling. It was exciting. But now that I look back on my life, my parents were asking me the same types of questions I ask him now..."Do you have enough money? Are you saving anything? Do you need groceries? How's the car running? I didn't realize it then, but I do now. I guess I am worrying about his current life situation. I hate hearing that he is lonely at times and misses the girl he left behind in Ohio. But I can't fix it...I can only listen and worry. I want him so badly to be happy, to find happiness in his new surroundings. He seems happy and he always reassures me that things are okay. I hope so. But in my mind (and pretend world) things could always be better.

His sister causes me worry as well. She says she is feeling "lost" not knowing how her life will be in the near future. She worries that she won't be able to find a good degree that suits her that leads to a career that she will not only love but make tons of money at. I keep reminding her that she is only 19 and shouldn't really know yet. How many sophomores in college know what they want to do in life? But I remember those feelings as well...and then I accidentally fell into my career passion. I believe that if you are too organized then you don't give yourself an opportunity to grow. You never find adventure and opportunity. Too organized = too safe. I have always wanted my kids to discover the world like I was able to. New experiences can help that. Don't be too closed off to new experiences, I tell her.

Her unsettled feelings cause me to worry. I can't help it. Parents always want their kids to have it better than they did. We want them to surpass us in success...but we can't live their lives for them or make their decisions. That is the tough part!

Does this worry ever end? I don't think so because my parents are STILL asking me the types of questions that tell me they still worry about me. Relax Mom and Dad; things are okay! Really they are! (I only wish I could take my own advice!)

Chow!