The best part of any trip is getting home again.

We just spent a whirlwind 6 days driving 3,000 miles.

This was attempt number three at going to see my parents. The first time, we were thwarted by the arrival of covid. The second time, our van died an hour and a half into the trip. This was all for the best. By waiting, I was able to visit and tour my childhood home. This was a dream come true for me, and meaningful to my family when I told them about it and showed them the pictures. Even my mom remembers the house and the good times we had there.

She saw pictures of Lempi and Poika and asked “is that Minnie?”

Minnie was my cat on the farm.

Adding to the farm visit, I came home with many treasures… items that I remember from my parents’ house.

In my sci-fi autobiography, I wrote about the farm, and the longing I had to touch physical objects from my childhood. Now I have them right here with me in Minnesota.

So you see? Dreams can come true. It may be more accurate to say that things are more likely to happen if you ask. They are even more likely if you work really hard at making them happen. I did all three.

My family was grateful that I took the objects and brought them home with me. I am grateful that they are here.

I assured my mom that this furniture is still hers, and I will take care of it for her in case she needs it again.

She still has objects in the drawers, and they will stay right there just in case.

My dad worried about the trailer, and I did my best to assure him too.

“Dad,” I said, “I am a problem solver.”

It all worked out.

What a strange feeling it must be to no longer need the things you’ve spent your life acquiring.

This is a sacred trust.

To someone else it might be just an old dresser or plate.

Mom didn’t want to lose it, so I will hold on to it for her.

That trip is so long. It gives you time to think.

I want my kids to think as fondly about their childhood as I think of mine. What will they remember? What will they long for? What will they dream about?

My dad said that he’s glad I was born because I bring a dimension that would remain a dark corner if I were not there.

That’s what my kids do for me. They light the dark corners of my life. They have made my house into a home, and we have created a family together.