Thread: my parents
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Old May 15, 2011, 11:40 PM
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Member Since: Feb 2011
Location: Michigan
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Can you tell them, when they go out, "Mom & Dad, I'm so happy that you didn't need to stay home with me, on my account. It make me happy when you are able to go out and visit with your friends, go to bingo, go to church, etc." This is sometimes better at changing behavior in a positive way than mentioning the things you don't like.

If you don't get these opportunities, you might say, "Hey, I appreciate all you have done for me, but I'm needing some quiet time alone for myself--it's something I've enjoyed since I've been grown and had kids of my own. Do you think I could "hide out" in the TV room in the basement alone tonight?"

Other cultures have more generations living together than ours. Our extended family isn't as healthy as theirs. I set goals for enjoying each of my family members more. Took a few years, but now that I'm in my 60's and the others are in their 80's (mom & dad), 60's (bro) and 50's (2 sis) I've accomplished that. For some, it's small increments of time only, with organized activities that occupy us so we enoy our time together. For others, it's just understanding they might have limitations of their own and are doing the best they can with themselves. I've become more understanding and forgiving, because it just isn't that important--they are my family, and they are still here with me.

Hope things get easier for you soon.