7 MILLION HOMES WHERE OLD IS NEW AGAIN

The Associated Press reports almost 7 million American households are now home to three generations of family members. A 30% spike since 2000. The poor job market has squeezed 'boomerang kids' back home to live with their parents after college. And grandparents too, who can't afford the increasingly costly and/or impersonal senior communities.

What we have here is what was once old but now becoming new again -- "The Waltons."

If you're too young to remember that popular old TV series featuring the narrative voice of John-Boy, then you're too young to finish reading this. But not too young to be living at home, where millions of Americans are discovering (re-discovering?) the assets and debits of sharing meals and memories with three generations.

I did. Some of you did. Some of you may soon do the same. With what social/psychological consequences? Well, the professional behaviorists may have a tough job profiling an adequate answer, because now each generation can exist inside and at the same time outside any place in their world. It's called personal communicators.

So -- Mom, Dad, Grams -- maybe I'll met you at the refrigerator some night; but in the meantime, just pretend me and my pc aren't here...!