Be Our Guest

She came home after two months at college for her mid-semester break. Four days off school and swim practice and dark bicycle rides through the early morning. A 10-hour car ride home, 3 hours with a friend to Rochester. Then Earl wove his way through Ohio, Pennsylvania, and the confusing streets of Rochester, New York to fetch her. They arrived home at 3:30 a.m.
She brought her own toothpaste, as if we wouldn't have any or wouldn't share with her. I guess she's responsible for herself now -- and that's a good thing. Right?

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

My heavy load of classes ends with finals this week. I have to turn in my grades and then Grace would like me to drive up to spend the weekend with her.
I can do that. I have the time, the transportation and even a little extra money to spend on hotels and gas.
Some people who have sent kids away to college say it is too soon. They say it will only make her more homesick if I go visit.
Next week will make three weeks since we left her in her dorm room.
Earl and I are going up to visit her the first weekend of October for family weekend, but that will be full of scheduled receptions and performances. It won't be down time, just hanging out with Grace.
Because I know her pretty well, I figure she is missing down time. She hasn't shared a room with anyone for this long except our French student Marie who came last summer. She would like to read a book and flip through mindless television channels.
And, of course, she'd like me to be there to take care of any decisions that have to be made, to remove that mantle from her shoulders for just a weekend.
When it comes time to say goodbye though, will there be tears and clinging?
What do you think? Should I stay or should I go?