How much do parents matter?

Hmmm.. well, I can tell you that among my male friends we normally share the following idea.. "before you get too serious, make sure you check out the girl's mom because she is your main indicator of what your future wife will look like..." I don't think any of us have applied the rule too seriously... yet!

Parents are an important part of your life. You should be proud of where you came from and not to be so critical of your parents appearance. My family does the best they can but we don't have a lot of money either (no expensive private school for me). You should respect what sacrifices they make for you and don't let any guys ruin your relationship with your parents. They are going to voice their opinion, but in the end its your happiness that matters. If a guy is more concerned about your background and not your personality, then he is no good.

That poor, overweight momma of yours helped raise the person your boyfriend likes... You! You guys should talk about both of your backgrounds let him know you're sometimes nervous he won't like you if he knew your home life isn't a glamorous as your ritzy school life. A good guy with honest intentions won't be bothered by where you grew up or how your mom looks...