I’m in the middle of a visit from my parents. They haven’t visited me in California in a while and so they were excited to see my dog and go to all the places they like to eat at.

It’s a little hectic at home because my house is very small and my mother is like a whirlwind of activity. A perk is that Mom is a little bored sometimes so she cleans my kitchen for me! 🙂 I am more like my dad, slower and more methodical.

What’s interesting is that as I get older, I see more how I am like one parent or the other in my habits and personality. And a lot of my similarities have come out only as I’ve gotten into my forties. I never used to be very interested in Japanese food or my family history, but in the past year I’ve gotten more into both, which is more in common with my parents.

There are still some things I don’t really relate to when I talk to them, but in general I enjoy my time with my family. We laugh a lot and like to eat good food.

My agent, Wendy Lawton, once told me to cherish these times with my folks, because one day I’ll want to call them and they won’t be there for me to call. It’s a sobering fact, and so I don’t want to take for granted this time that I have with them, when they’re both healthy and active. When my mom can still cook for me and my dad can still enjoy a glass or two of wine with me before dinner.

I guess I’m very fortunate that my relationship with my parents is very good, because I have friends who do not have good relationships with one or both of their parents. It makes me want to not have any regrets about the time I spend with my folks.

How about you? Are there things you do/did with your parents that are very special times?