I kept giving my kids college guides and they didn't act appreciative... But just last week my daughter was kicking herself because she hadn't realized how pretty Oregon was when I took her to Lewis and Clark, Reed and U. of Washington. Granted, she ended up at Mt. Holyoke which was just as pretty, but she finally understands what we West-Coasters loved about it.
Likewise, son doesn't admit to wanting much help... but he looked over at me a week or so ago and said, "Bet you're disappointed that I'm such a slacker." Didn't know what to say really.... Slacker... yeah, kinda... but disappointed in my kids just isn't part of the picture anymore. They are who they are and THEY get to live with the consequences.... (He's not "slacking" so much now... astrophysics AND working two pt jobs.
Dryer top is clear, but closet/clothes hamper is FULL of dirty clothes.... And there are scummy dishes waiting for me when I get home from work. I am a domestic non-goddess... or better, a non-domestic Goddess.
