We're only taking turns
Holding this world
It's how it's always been
When you're older, you will understand
-The Fray's "Trust Me"

At college, there are no curfews, no checking-in, no updating-on-who-you're-with, no bed times, no chores...  In short, no parents.

The freedom of college is something that just about every high schooler looks forward to.  They all say it'll be awesome.  They're convinced it will be great.  They're so sure they will love it.

Guess what?

They're RIGHT!  It's awesome!

But it's also important to remember that when one returns home, the parents are suddenly back in play.  That means I have to take out the trash and clean my room.  That means I need to let them know what my weekend plans are.

Oddly enough, it's going quite well.  Granted, I have an internship that lasts most of the day, so they usually know where I am.  But as far as evenings and weekends go, they pretty much let me do what I want.  If you've read my blog, you know that I have taken multiple road trips to visit people.  I've been to Crew games and Chicago and even had my girlfriend visit.  Allow me to share some secrets to getting along with parents when you're home from college:

• Talk to them right at the start!  Discuss upfront what kinds of expectations they'll have for you.
• Keep them informed.  My parents let me do what I want, as long as they have a heads-up.
• Involve them!  Visiting friends are welcome, as long as the parents have some advanced notice.
• Prove you are responsible.  If you're home early throughout the week, they'll probably not care so much when you are out for a late weekend.
• Stand up for yourself, just with some respect.  Don't be afraid to ask for more freedom, but they ARE still your parents, after all.

Happy last-few-weeks-of-Summer!

Take care,
Rob