Letting Go Gifts

"They grow up so fast."

'What's that? It's a leaving present for the next person who comes in late.'

'There they go - off on their own - and a finer bunch of fledgelings one couldn't ask.'

'Sure, go ahead! Evolve! It's all the rage, I know! Have fun! I'll just sit here in this murky, primordial soup with nothing but plankton for company. Why should you stay here with your mother? The one who raised you, fed you...'

"I can't get used to being a grownup."

"Maybe he's so sad that he's leaving us to go to college that he actually looks happy. Please don't ruin it for me with reality."

"But if you leave New Orleans, you'll be just another sandwich."

"Yeah, you could say I've got mother issues....she told me I have to move out!"

'It's time to move out when Mom says...'

Fish evolving: 'Write, if you establish a niche.'

Fishbowl rebellion.

"My parents said that until I find a job and move out they will not recognize me as a sentient being."

"Nothing else in my room can spin on the floor like a bottle."

Trust

'What about you...you've been living here thirty years too?'

"Your mother and I think it's time you got a place of your own. We'd like a little time alone before we die."

"Son, one day two hundred square feet of this city could be yours to rent."

"Your mother and I want to make your 21st birthday a moving experience. We'll help you pack."

'Son, the world is ripe for the taking ... you better stay home with me.'

"Your mom needs to know that you made it here OK, and your dad wants to know if you could use a few bucks."

"Lives in the basement and has yet to bring home a dime."

"Be afraid to try new things!"

"This is a little awkward, but you've been our guest for a while now, and we all have work in the morning..."

"Shouldn't you use a plate?"

Origins Of Evolution

"All I ask is a chance to ruin my life in my own way."

'Honey...you're spoiling that child.'

Estate Agent showing client his parents' house - '...and here's one from our affordable homes range'

Annual 'See You In The Spring' Hibernation Party.

'No, thanks. My folks won't let me get any piercings, yet.'

Having installed a hydraulically operated wall in their 25-year-old's bedroom...

'How should I know how things are at home, I moved into the pub a month ago.'

"I know, boy—I miss the smoked salmon at Zabar's, too."

'Woke up this morning found someone had stolen my guitar...'

"I do like it here, but I'm ready for my own apartment."