The main reason I went to California was to see my daughter and son. Laura is separated from her husband, although she said "He's changed". I responded with a "I've heard that before!". She better NOT take him back.

Spending a whole week camping out with my son was a unique experience. It's different than having a child living at home. Besides, he's now 29, a grown man. Still, he's my "little boy" (No--I didn't treat him as that).

We've never had any disagreements or arguments. But he IS different than me. While personable, he's reserved, almost shy. Everybody likes him--and for good reason. He's just plain nice.

I asked him about his future plans. Does he want to be a "baker" for the rest of his life? (He works for a small "bakery" that specializes in "California type brownies", if you catch my drift!) He commutes one way 1.5 hours each day. Ugh. I suggested a closer to home job.

But Darin (I call him Darino) doesn't seem to be too motivated--never was--to have high aspirations. He just floats along enjoying life as it is. I wouldn't call him lazy, just laid back. It's as if he hasn't found himself.

As long as he's happy, I reckon that's the important thing. He doesn't ask for handouts. No girl friend (two male roommates). I refrained from giving him advice--although I floated some ideas out there.

No matter what, I still love and support him. While not exactly proud of where he works or what his life goals are, he's a good "kid", and I'm not worried about him. It was a good week.