My mom and dad joined the millions of Americans who parent their children’s children — a beautiful responsibility that comes at a high cost.

As their magic act hits 50 years, they’re bigger than ever. They say their secret is not to socialize. But misdirection is also their love language.

These retired women in Texas have been through infertility, illness, layoffs, addiction and disappointing marriages. Now they are trying to create a utopia just for themselves.

Cris Hassold, a professor at New College of Florida for 50 years, left a mark on her 31 favorite students. “I think about her almost every day,” one said.