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Moscow, Idaho

T he week after the Chapin triplets celebrate their twentieth birthdays, it’s family weekend at the University of Idaho.

Stacy and Jim Chapin are in Moscow buying their kids mimosas for breakfast. The three are still as close as they were growing up.

Xana is excited for them to meet her dad, Jeff, who lives in Arizona but is putting in an appearance.

Stacy can see how happy Ethan is with Xana.

Stacy can also see the signs that their kids are becoming independent adults.

When the weekend is over, as Stacy and Jim drive away from campus, Stacy shares a realization with her husband.

The Chapin triplets are maturing into giving, thoughtful people, and it’s clear that they’re almost ready to lead their own lives.

For parents, this is a milestone. A bittersweet turning point that all parents hope and dread they’ll face.

Our job is done, Stacy thinks. Then she says it aloud. “Our job is done!”

She and Jim look at each other. They grin. They high-five in the car.

Our job is done.