house rules

A good friend asks me the other day, “How do you feel about Alexander coming home next week?”  My immediate and truthful answer is,  “I can’t wait.” I haven’t seen my son since March, when he returned to school.  I am looking forward to dinners out, watching TV in, laughing together (he is very funny), and trips to the beach.  I will put my arms around him and welcome him home. I will be thrilled to have him back.

But my feelings are a little mixed.   Because along with all the good, there’s the not so good:

Adapting to a ton of new stuff being added to a small apartment.

Worrying when my son is out late; I can’t peacefully go to asleep until he’s home.

Spending lots more money.

Absorbing any stress my son may have.

Having a less than clean and less than neat apartment, most of the time.

So I make a list of House Rules.  I know this might sound obnoxious, but I’m hoping they will be observed, and at least one of us will be happier.

  

    We both live here; we both have bedrooms; and we both share the living room.  No more telling me to leave the living room because you want the space for yourself.

    Make your bed every morning.

    All your stuff belongs in your room; otherwise it will disappear (I am serious).

    All water bottles, dishes, and other stuff should not be left overnight in any place other than the kitchen.

    When you use up the soap in the bathroom, refill the dispenser without my asking you to.  Same goes for toilet paper, paper towels, and Poland Spring water cooler.

    Do not return water bottles with less than an inch of water to the refrigerator; finish it and/or throw it out.

    Put your computer away in your bedroom before going to sleep.  It doesn’t belong precariously balanced on the arm of the sofa.

    After week one of being home, no sleeping after 12pm.  It’s irritating.

    Put your clothes IN the laundry basket, not on top of it.

    No yelling for any reason other than you are hurt.  No exceptions.