I was one of those who felt ashamed if I had to borrow something from someone else.  It didn't fit in with my perception of what it means to be an adult and take care of your own family.

However, after having to live with my parents for a year after the birth of my 2nd son due to medical and financial troubles, my husband and I soon got over it.  We got along so well, that we moved into their home permanently, and they built a new house next door.  We share a water bill, trips to town, sundries like bulk laundry soap and paper goods, and big items (pick-up truck, commerical lawn mower, chain saws, etc.)  If we have something they need, we lend it.  If they have something we need, we borrow it.  We also share labor on projects, and eat many of our meals together (Sundays especially.)

It's great for the obvious financial reasons, but it's also more than that..

My kids get to know their grandparents the way that kids used to know their extended families when they all lived together on farms.  I get a relationship with my parents that I didn't really have growing up.  We have more things together than we ever could apart.  We show grace to each other if something gets broken and we always take the opportunity to make things right.

Many lessons (tough ones, albeit) can be learned living this way! 

Thank you Philip for reminding us why we do what we do and reassuring me that we aren't freakish for doing so!