09/07/2025
Months in the making, our anniversary trip was nearly here. With just the two of us going, my dad needed someone to be with him. He was alone in the house my parents had created together, filled with warmth and memories.
We settled on my in-laws, both retired and enthusiastic about "helping." Watching my dad for two weeks while we traveled was agreed upon.
It quickly came undone.
The moment we left, control slipped away.
My quiet, gentle dad, who took pleasure in gardening and reading, ended up hosting two pushy houseguests.
They grew too comfortable, snacking constantly, taking over the TV, and worse:
Bob (FIL): "God, this place is ancient. You'd think he'd install central air."
Janet (MIL): "Why does he need a whole house anyway? Just shuffling around and using up space. A care facility would be more appropriate."
Their disrespect was apparent. The television blared, food vanished, and my dad was treated as little more than an obstacle.
Soon, suggestions appeared.
Bob: "You know, your daughter has her own family now. Maybe it's time to make space for them."
Janet: "Nursing homes have nurses, trained staff, soft food. Honestly, you'd be better off."
My dad never argued, offering polite smiles and nods instead.
Three days before our scheduled return, he voiced his own surprise.
Dad (calmly): "Youโre right. Maybe it's time I moved out. Could you help me pack my things?"
Janet seemed thrilled.
Janet: "Of course! We'll help you pack everything. You just rest."
Bob: "We'll make this place shine again."
Over the next forty-eight hours, every bit of his life was packed and waiting in the garage. Their joy was great, and they started planning future decoration.
Dad: "While you're helping me pack, could you also pack some of your stuff? I've been thinking of renovating your room."
A brief exchange of glances followed.
Janet: "Of course! We'll move our stuff into storage. No problem."
Bob: "Yeah, let's get this over with."
Two days on, the doorbell echo startled them both. โฌ๏ธ
