The problem with the late twenties is that not only we are getting older but we compare ourselves to those who are already so successful by our age, those who are already married with kids and we are still looking for our first boyfriends. Those who are already in their careers and we're still getting degrees and entering our first jobs. Those who are already buying their first house and some of us are still living at home or moving out for the first time. Life's changed and the 20s are not the same. It's becoming a divided age and a very confusing time, how can some of us have already accomplished so much and others are still getting started?

Sometimes it bothers me, sometimes it doesn't, but in my situation, as someone who has moved out for the first time, I am grateful to have enthusiatically supportive parents. They try to play it cool, but they get so excited to drop off homemade soup and meatloaf or casseroles. They're always asking me if I'd like this, this, or that. And what do I think of this, would I like them to buy it for me? And oh, we're sending you a suprise in the mail. My grandma does the same thing, she'll send me magnets or money for whatever I'd like with a big "when you get this, shhhhhh! Don't tell anyone!"

I agree with other members, moms and grandmas especially like to support their daughters and granddaughters, and it is a huge relief to come home and have something Mom made when the food I cook usually turns out crap. I work FT and am starting life on my own, so the extra help is appreciated and it helps me feel less homesick to have my mom and grandma care enough about me to surprise me or cook me meals. And I do return the favor, I go visit them, write them thank yous, buy them little surprises and I have already cooked for Mom and Dad (they were polite about it, but most of it turned out crap).

On the other hand, though, be careful when your girlfriend says "I'll be more motivated". That may not be the case. And why should one person cook and the other expect to be waited on? If she doesn't know how to cook, teach her and cook meals together. That's a how a couple ought to be--working together and pulling both their weight.