So, Staci has already told you about the experience of being my second opinion in my search for a "Barbara apartment." And now, the keys are in my hand—a very exciting Big Girl moment (those keep sneaking up on me).

I was very nervous to move. More than being nervous, I was clueless. The phone at my parents' house rang many times as I was making my decision and compiling my list of possibilities.

In fact, the phone rings at their house a lot! I pretty much don't make a major decision without consulting them first. My job search  ... called 'em. My work benefits  ...called 'em. My cat ... called 'em.

It's not just me. I bet many of you in Generation Y  can relate. Our parents seem to play a larger role in our planning and decision-making than the parents of other generations. We're a little—dare I say it—coddled.

But some parents take their overprotective habits to the extreme —earning them the moniker "helicopter parents." One has to wonder if these kinds of practices help us develop independence or hinder our entry into the adult world.

My parents are not the über -overprotective type, but they are always available when I need them. And sometimes, I need them a little too much. I've developed a dependency that just won't go away even as I near the big 2-3. I can't even imagine what I'd be like had I faced parental units that hovered over my every move.

I'm curious what it's like for you.

Tell me: Are your helicopter parents hovering a little too close? Feel like you have a smother instead of a mother? Or are you happy to be a little bit overprotected?

And parent readers, feel free to >chime in with your experiences.

P.S. Mom, if you ever learn how to use the Internet and read this (or if one of my sisters prints it off for you), rest assured, I don't think you smother me! I value every piece of advice you give me ... even if I don't always take it! :)